NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) is the nursing licensure exam used by US state boards and Canadian regulators, developed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).
Two versions:
- NCLEX-RN: registered nurses
- NCLEX-PN: practical/vocational nurses
Format: the Next Generation NCLEX is computer-adaptive — the number of questions depends on how you answer — and is taken at Pearson VUE test centers.
A common route for Filipino nurses:
1. Finish your BSN and pass the Philippine NLE
2. Apply to the US state board or Canadian regulator you're targeting (some require a credentials evaluation)
3. Get authorization to test, then take the NCLEX
4. Meet the visa and employment requirements separately
What it means for you:
- It's a different style from the NLE, so plan separate preparation
- Check NCSBN (ncsbn.org) and your target board for current fees, rules and test locations