Today marks my 6th year anniversary of passing the NCLEX and I felt the need to share something to help my fellow Filipino nurses who are aspiring to become a USRN and work here in the US. Think of this as the easy and budget-friendly version of the entire NCLEX process.
I myself DIYed my NCLEX and you can do it too. I know, the entire process of being a USRN is overwhelmingly confusing (this was my initial impression too) but there is a simpler way to look at it. The less-intimidating approach it is to look at it as two (2) separate processes: 1. Evaluation of Credentials (via CGFNS) and 2. State-specific License Application (via state BON website).
It’s easier and less confusing if I show it in a diagram. I will leave out the specific details and only show the major steps, the specifics will handle itself once you are the main tasks. Here is the diagram:
It looks easier and less confusing. We helped two friends process their NCLEX and they are already here in the US working as an RN. We only guided them on doing the main steps, provided them the direction they needed and the process just flowed answered their questions as they go.
This diagram not only provides guidance but also saves you, the aspiring candidate, a lot of time and money by avoiding fees that processing agencies ask. It’s basically the same if you process with an agency because it’s still you who will request your documents, they will just provide you guidance the entire time which is “convenient”, I guess.
Also, if you apply for NCLEX via an agency, there is a corresponding fee on each step. And it is expensive! The entire cost would probably amount to Php 200,000 or higher depending on the state where you apply for license, whereas if you process the exam by yourself, it would only cost you around 50% less–so yes, keep your extra Php 100,000.