How to Become a Registered Nurse (RN) in Canada: A Step-byStep Guide
How to Become a Registered Nurse (RN) in the USA in 2025: A Step-by-Step Guide for Internationally Educated Nurses
The U.S. is experiencing a critical nursing shortage, with projections indicating a need for
1.2 million new RNs by 2030. For internationally educated nurses (IENs), this presents a
golden opportunity to build a rewarding career in American healthcare. However, the
licensure process can be complex.
This 2025 guide breaks down the latest requirements, including NCLEX-RN, credential
evaluations, visa options, and state-specific rules, to help you navigate the process
smoothly.
Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility
- Australia has introduced streamlined registration processes for internationally qualified
nurses (IQNs) starting April 2025. The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia
(NMBA) now offers two new pathways based on your qualifications and experience:
Pathway 1: Recognition of Comparable Jurisdiction Qualifications
- ✅ For nurses from approved countries (UK, Ireland, US, Canada [BC/Ontario],
Singapore, Spain)
✅ Must have:
• A nursing qualification from an NMBA-approved jurisdiction
• 1,800+ hours of RN work experience since 2017
• Current/previous general registration in home country
• English proficiency (IELTS/OET/PTE)
• Certificate of Good Standing from home regulatory body
• Direct registration (no NCLEX/OSCE).
Pathway 2: Non-Comparable Jurisdiction with Regulatory Exam
- ✅ For nurses from non-approved countries (e.g., India, Philippines)
✅ Must have:
• Passed a regulatory exam (e.g., NCLEX, OSCE) in an approved country
• 1,800+ hours of RN work experience since 2017
• Meet English language requirements (IELTS/OET/PTE)
Processing Time: Now 1–6 months (down from 9–12 months)
2. Steps to Become an RN in Australia (2025 Update)
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
- GNM Nurses: Must upgrade qualifications (e.g., Post-Basic BSc Nursing or
Australian bridging courses). - BSc Nurses: If from an approved country, apply directly via AHPRA’s new
pathway.
Step 2: Take NCLEX
A. NCLEX-RN (For Most International Nurses)
- Who takes it? Nurses from non-approved countries (e.g., India, Philippines,
Nigeria). - Exam format: Computer-based, multiple-choice questions (similar to the US
NCLEX).
Step 3 : Take OSCE
B. OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Exam)
- Who takes it? IQNM’s who need clinical competency proof.
- Exam format: Practical skills test (e.g., patient assessment, medication
administration). - Passing score: 70% or higher.
- Cost: AUD $4,000 (held only in Australia).
Step 4 : English Language Proficiency
IELTS (Academic):
- Overall score: 7.0
- Listening, Reading, and Speaking: 7.0 each
- Writing: 6.5 (reduced from 7.0)
OET (Occupational English Test):
- Minimum of a B in listening, reading, and speaking
- Minimum of C+ in writing (previously a B)
PTE Academic:
- Overall score of 66
- Minimum of 66 in listening, reading, and speaking
- Minimum of 56 in writing (reduced from 65)
Step 5 : AHPRA Registration
- Apply via the new 2025 streamlined process.
• Submit:
o Nursing degree/diploma
o Work experience proof
o English test results
o Police clearance & health checks
Step 6 : Visa & Job Search
- Skilled Visa (189/190/491): Requires 65+ PR points (higher scores improve
chances). - Employer Sponsorship (482/186): Faster route if you secure a job first.
3. Upgrading Options for GNM Nurses
If you hold a GNM diploma, you’ll need additional qualifications to become an RN in
Australia:
Option 1: Graduate Certificate in Nursing (GCN) – 6–12 Months
- Cost: AUD $7,000–$10,000 4.
- Allows entry into the Outcomes-Based Assessment (OBA) pathway.
Option 2: Bachelor of Nursing (3 Years)
- Cost: AUD $30,000–$45,000/year.
- Fast-track option: Some universities offer Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
to reduce study time.
Option 3: Post-Basic BSc Nursing in India (2 Years)
- Cost: INR 2–3 lakhs (~AUD $3,000–$5,000).
- Eligible for OBA pathway after completion.
4. Job Opportunities & Salary Expectations
- Starting Salary for RNs: AUD $85,000/year.
High-Demand Specializations:
Aged Care (AUD $70,000–$90,000)
