The NCLEX for Nigerian Nurses has become one of the most reliable pathways to secure high-paying nursing careers abroad, especially in Canada and the USA. In 2026, with global nurse shortages increasing, the NCLEX for Nigerian Nurses is more valuable than ever, offering Nigerians a clear route to permanent residency, stable income, and international opportunities.
This guide explains everything—requirements, steps, costs, timelines, and how to pass confidently.
NCLEX is the gold standard for the USA/Canada, but Australia also accepts it for fast-track registration — full AHPRA guide here: Nursing Registration in Australia for Nigerians 2026 (AHPRA + OBA).
NCLEX for Nigerian Nurses 2026: Why It Matters
The NCLEX for Nigerian Nurses is now the global standard exam required before practicing as a registered nurse in the USA and Canada.
Here’s why 2026 is a golden year:
- Massive nursing shortages
- Fast-tracked immigration for registered nurses
- High salaries:
USA: $70,000–$120,000/yr
Canada: CAD $65,000–$110,000/yr
- Nigerians are now among the top successful candidates globally
USA/Canada salaries $70K–$120K, UK £38K–£52K — compare all three top destinations here: High-Paying Nursing Jobs in the UK for Nigerians 2026.
Requirements for NCLEX for Nigerian Nurses
To sit for the NCLEX for Nigerian Nurses, you must have:
- RN (or RM) license from NMCN
- NMCN verification
- Transcripts from your nursing school
- International passport
- Credential evaluation (CGFNS, NNAS)
- Background check (for USA pathway)
- English proficiency (IELTS/OET for most Canadian provinces)
Pengman Recommends: Process your NMCN verification early—delays are common.
Read: How to Get QTS Without PGCE (UK Guide).
USA NCLEX Pathway for Nigerians (Step-by-Step Guide)
This is the most popular route for the NCLEX for Nigerian Nurses in 2026.
Step 1 — Choose a State Board of Nursing
Popular boards for Nigerians:
- Texas Board of Nursing
- New York Board of Nursing
- Illinois Board of Nursing
Why TX? Fast, accepts foreign nurses, no SSN required upfront.
Step 2 — Credential Evaluation (CGFNS or NYSED)
You will submit:
- NMCN verification
- Academic transcript
- Proof of license
- Passport
CGFNS fees: $350–$450
Step 3 — Authorization to Test (ATT)
Once approved, you’ll receive ATT and can schedule the NCLEX with Pearson VUE.
Step 4 — Write the NCLEX in Nigeria or Ghana
There is a Pearson VUE center in Lagos, Nigeria.
Exam fee: $200
Step 5 — Get Your RN License + Job Sponsorship
After passing the NCLEX for Nigerian Nurses, you can be offered:
- H-1B visa
- EB-3 visa
- Direct hospital sponsorship
- Agency recruitment
The UK uses OSCE instead of the NCLEX — many skills overlap. Full UK OSCE prep guide here: OSCE Preparation for Nigerian Nurses 2026 (UK NMC Guide).
Canada NCLEX Pathway for Nigerians (Step-by-Step Guide)
Since 2025, Canada now used the NCLEX-RN for all provinces.
Step 1 — Open NNAS Account
Cost: $650
Submit:
- Nursing transcripts
- NMCN verification
- Proof of identity
- English test (for most provinces)
Step 2 — Receive NNAS Advisory Report
Result will be:
- Comparable
- Somewhat comparable
- Not comparable
Most Nigerians get “somewhat comparable”—still acceptable.
Step 3 — Apply to a Provincial Nursing Body
Popular provinces:
- Ontario (CNO)
- Alberta (CRNA)
- Nova Scotia
- New Brunswick
Step 4 — Write the NCLEX in Lagos
Same exam as the USA pathway.
Step 5 — Immigration
After passing the NCLEX:
- Express Entry
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Atlantic Immigration Program
Official NCLEX info → https://www.ncsbn.org/nclex.page
After NCLEX, move to Canada via Express Entry or study route — full Canada study visa guide here: Canada Study Visa for Nigerians 2026: Step-by-Step Guide.
Cost Breakdown (Nigeria → USA/Canada)
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| NMCN verification | ₦20,000 |
| Transcript | ₦10,000–₦50,000 |
| CGFNS/NNAS | $350–$650 |
| NCLEX exam | $200 |
| Visa fees | $160–$200 |
| Training | ₦80,000–₦200,000 |
Total average: ₦500,000–₦1,500,000
How to Apply for NMCN Verification
- Visit the NMCN portal
- Fill the verification form
- Pay the verification fee
- Upload your license
- Submit to your school to send transcripts
Expect 2–8 weeks.
Best NCLEX Training Centres for Nigerian Nurses
(NOT sponsored recommendations)
- IER Academy
- Prime NCLEX Review
- PinkAdemm NCLEX Hub
- UWorld (online)
- NurseAchieve (online simulation)
NCLEX 2026 Pass-Rate Tips
- Study 2–3 hours daily
- Use UWorld QBank
- Practice 2,000–3,000 questions
- Understand “NCLEX-style thinking.”
- Take multiple mock exams
- Use the new NGN case studies
- Avoid memorizing—focus on SAFE care
Conclusion
The NCLEX for Nigerian Nurses remains one of the most powerful pathways to secure jobs in Canada and the USA. In 2026, demand for Nigerian nurses is at an all-time high, making this the perfect year to begin your journey. Whether your goal is permanent residency, higher pay, or global experience, the NCLEX for Nigerian Nurses is your gateway to life-changing opportunities.
Planning to study nursing in the USA first? Nail the F1 interview with these 30 questions here: F1 Visa Interview Questions for Nigerians 2026 (90% Pass Rate).
FAQs
1. What is the NCLEX for Nigerian Nurses?
It is the licensing exam required to work as a registered nurse in the USA or Canada.
2. Can I write the NCLEX in Nigeria?
Yes, the Pearson VUE center in Lagos offers NCLEX exams.
3. Is English test required?
Not for most U.S. states, but mandatory for Canada.
4. Can RN and RM nurses apply?
Yes—both midwives and general nurses can sit for the NCLEX.
5. Can I get sponsorship after passing NCLEX?
Yes—USA agencies and Canadian provinces recruit directly.
6. How long does the whole process take?
Between 4 months and 12 months.
7. Is the NCLEX difficult?
It requires practice, but Nigerians have strong pass rates with proper preparation.