NCLEX USA VS. NCLEX Australia: Which exam is better for Foreign RNs

NCLEX USA VS. NCLEX Australia: Which exam is better for Foreign RNs

Is there a difference between NCLEX USA and NCLEX Australia?  

After Australia transitioned to a new assessment model for internationally qualified nurses and midwives last March 2020. Some candidates are now required to take the NCLEX before registering.

The NCLEX exams in the United States and Australia are similar. No matter which state or testing site the candidate chooses, everyone takes the same NCLEX test. However, the process, requirements, and fees are different.
In this blog, discover the differences between NCLEX USA and NCLEX Australia.

Step-by-Step Application

This is the most crucial topic that candidates should be aware of before beginning their application. One must know the step-by-step application on how to take NCLEX exam in Australia or the USA. And here are the differences  between the two:

NCLEX USA

NCLEX AUSTRALIA

Step 1: Choosing the best state to apply for NCLEX

Step 2: NCLEX Credential Evaluation Phase

Note: Not all SBON undergoes Pre Eligibility phase or Credential Evaluation Phase

Step 3: NCLEX Eligibility Phase

Step 4: NCLEX Authorization to Test/ATT Phase

Step 5: NCLEX Exam Scheduling

Step 6: Take your NCLEX exam

Step 7: Claim your NCLEX exam result

Step 8: Get your license or apply for a license application.

Step 1: Assessment

Step 2: OBA (MCQ & OSCE)

Step 3: Registration

Exam Application fees

NCLEX USA

NCLEX AUSTRALIA

Ranging from $700 to $1,500 for the overall NCLEX exam fee depending on the State chosen by the candidate.

Ranging from $4,400 to $4,600 for the estimated Assessment and NCLEX RN Application.

English Exams

NCLEX USA

NCLEX AUSTRALIA

In the US, not all Boards of Nursing require an English exam for non-native English language speakers.


IELTS (International English Language Testing System), PTE (Pearson Language Tests), and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) are the widely accepted English exams required in some states.

English language skills are required for all nurses and midwives applying for initial registration.

IELTS (International English Language Testing System), OET (Occupational English Test), PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic), and TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-based test) are the approved English language exam by NMBA.

ATT Validity

NCLEX USA

NCLEX AUSTRALIA

The validity dates of ATTs differ by state boards of nursing. 

The NMBA has a 90 calendar days validity period for ATTs.

Exam Result

NCLEX USA

NCLEX AUSTRALIA

After taking the exam, some applicants may be able to view their unofficial NCLEX results two business days later. And your official results can only be released by the nursing regulatory body to which you applied.

Only AHPRA will release the results. 

Candidates will only be informed of their results after they have been received by AHPRA within six (6) weeks after the examination sitting date.

Except for boards of nursing, where you must pay for issuing your license, some boards issue licenses automatically after you pass the exam. While in Australia, after passing the NCLEX and OSCE exams, you can begin the licensure registration process. 

The process for taking the NCLEX USA or NCLEX Australia may seem to be confusing. To avoid mistakes, ideally, candidates must thoroughly research the complexity of the procedures. However, with NEAC as an innovative pioneer medical exam licensure application center, you don't have to worry about the process. The candidate can focus on the review without the hassle of application because NEAC is here to accomplish all necessary work for your NCLEX application at the best possible cost.

Email us at online@applynclex.com if you have further questions about the NCLEX Exam Application.

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