By Tracy Drake | January 20, 2022
As the Nurse Licensure expert at WorldWide HealthStaff Solutions, I am commonly asked, “Which state is best for NCLEX?” and “What is the easiest state to pass NCLEX?”
If you want to work as a RN in the United States, you will have to complete the NCLEX-RN exam. The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RNexam) has one purpose: to determine if it’s safe for you to begin practice as an entry-level nurse. It is significantly different from any test that you took in nursing school. While nursing school exams are knowledge-based, the NCLEX-RNtests application and analysis using the nursing knowledge you learned in school. You will be tested on how you can use critical thinking skills to make nursing judgments.
Although every state in the U.S. has their pros and cons, I have narrowed my list to the top 5 states now updated for 2022 based upon states/territories that do not require an English proficiency exam (IELTS or TOEFL) or SSN (social security number). It is important to keep in mind that every licensure situation and case is different. One state might be better for you than another and your options are not just narrowed to this list. That is where our team comes in. We are here to help determine the best solutions for you. If you are looking for the best state for NCLEX or easiest state to pass NCLEX, here are the top 5:
#1 Connecticut
Leading our list, Connecticut is one of the six New England states (Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut) with an examination process that is internationally friendly. They do not require an English language proficiency exam or a social security number to sit for the NCLEX exam, to apply for a license, or to renew a license.
#2 Montana
Although Montana may be considered the wild west, their licensing requirements are far from it. They do not require an English language proficiency exam or a social security number to sit for the NCLEX exam, to apply for a license, or to renew a license. Montana has a pretty good processing time of 30 business days once everything is received.
#3 New York
It is no surprise that New York is one of the most popular state destinations in the USA for international nurses. From the bright lights of New York City to the beautiful upstate area, the Empire State does not require an English language proficiency exam or a social security number to sit for the NCLEX exam, to apply for a license, or to renew a license.
#4 Northern Mariana Islands
Next up on our list are the Northern Mariana Islands. They are an unincorporated territory and commonwealth of the United Statesconsisting of 14 islands in the northwestern Pacific Ocean. This tropical location makes our list as they do not require an English language proficiency exam or a social security number to sit for the NCLEX exam, to apply for a license, or to renew a license.
#5 South Dakota
Finishing out this list is the Mount Rushmore State. Here is a random fun fact about South Dakota: Started in 1948, the Crazy Horse Memorial (famous Native American Sioux Indian Chief) is still being carved today in the Black Hills. When finished, the statue will be 563 feet high, almost twice as tall as the Statue of Liberty! South Dakota does not require an English language proficiency exam or a social security number to sit for the NCLEX exam, to apply for a license, or to renew a license.
Upon completion of the NCLEX exam and further BON requirements, you will be able to receive a permanent license prior to your US arrival. This license can then be endorsed to your assigned state. If you are a RN with a minimum of 2 years of experience, currently working in a bedside setting and working on completing your NCLEX certification, our team is ready to help you transition into your next nursing adventure! Please reach out tonclexprep@healthstaff.orgfor further information/assistance with your NCLEX preparation.
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