To be eligible for a visa to work as a nurse in the U.S., USCIS (US immigration) requires international nurses to have:
A bachelor of science degree in nursing (BSN, BScN, BN) from an accredited university.
A valid nursing license
At least two years experience working as a nurse. Experienced nurses have many more opportunities than new graduate nurses.
The U.S. does not have any visa categories for diploma nurses from other countries. Most diploma nursing programs in the US transitioned to ADN-RN or BSN programs during the 1960s and 1970s. Most US diploma nurses have retired from nursing.
After you have the visa requirements, you can begin on the credentialing and licensing requirements, including the NCLEX exam for RNs in the US. CGFNS manages the credentialing and licensing processes for international nurses. See the CGFNS website for more information.
Prepare carefully for the NCLEX exam. Fewer than 50% of internationally educated nurses pass this exam.
Your best chance of becoming an RN in the US is to return to a university, earn a bachelors degree in nursing from an accredited university, and work as an RN for a few years. Then you can begin the process of transitioning to the US.
Passing the NCLEX after completing your diploma nursing program is a big step, and it’s completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety about it. Here are some tips to help you prepare and succeed:
Understand the Test Format: Familiarize yourself with the NCLEX structure. Knowing how questions are formatted and the types of content covered can ease your nerves.
Create a Study Plan: Break your study material into manageable sections. Consistency is key! Set aside dedicated study time each day, and try to stick to it. Make it a routine.
Use Quality Resources: Invest in NCLEX review books, online courses, or apps that fit your learning style. Resources like practice questions and simulations can be incredibly helpful.
Practice, Practice, Practice: Take as many practice tests as you can. They not only help you get comfortable with the question style but also identify areas where you need more review.
Join a Study Group: Connecting with peers can provide support and motivation. Discussing topics with others can deepen your understanding and make studying more enjoyable.
Stay Healthy: Don’t forget to take care of yourself. Eat well, exercise, and get enough sleep. A healthy body supports a healthy mind!
Manage Stress: Find relaxation techniques that work for you, whether it’s deep breathing, meditation, or going for a walk. Managing stress is crucial as the exam date approaches.
Visualize Success: Imagine yourself walking out of the exam room feeling accomplished. Positive visualization can boost your confidence and help reduce anxiety.
Test Day Preparation: On the day of the exam, make sure you have everything you need—ID, snacks, and water. Arrive early to avoid any last-minute stress.
Stay Positive: Remember that it’s okay to feel nervous; many test-takers do! Trust in your preparation and give yourself credit for all the hard work you’ve put in.
You’ve come so far already, and this is just one more step on your journey. Believe in yourself, and you’ve got this!
