Requirements for
NCLEX 2025

To qualify for the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) in Nigeria, candidates must meet several important criteria. These requirements ensure that only those who are adequately prepared and educated in the field of nursing are allowed to take the NCLEX exam. Here are the key eligibility criteria for the NCLEX:

Candidates must have completed an accredited nursing program. This can be an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN), a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN), or a diploma in nursing. The program must be recognized by the Nursing Regulatory Body (NRB) in the region where the candidate intends to practice.

Candidates must apply to the NRB in the state or country where they wish to obtain their nursing license. Each NRB has its own specific application process and requirements. The application typically involves submitting proof of education, identity verification, and sometimes additional documentation or fees.

After the NRB reviews and approves a candidate’s application, the candidate will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT). This document is essential for scheduling the NCLEX exam. The ATT is usually valid for a specific period, often up to one year. If the exam is not taken within this period, the candidate may need to reapply and obtain a new ATT.

International candidates (Nigerian Candidates) may need to undergo a credential evaluation to ensure that their nursing education and qualifications meet the standards required by the NRB. Agencies like the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) often handle this evaluation.

For candidates whose nursing education was not conducted in English, demonstrating English proficiency is usually required. This can be done by taking standardized tests such as the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System). In Nigeria, most nursing education are conducted in English and there is no need for Nigerian candidates to undergo this process.

There is generally no specific age limit for taking the NCLEX. As long as the candidate meets the educational and regulatory requirements, they are eligible to take the exam regardless of age.

NCLEX eligibility expiration varies by region and NRB. Typically, you have one year from receiving your ATT to take the exam. If you do not take the exam within this period, you may need to reapply and pay additional fees.