How to Sign Up for the NCLEX
One thing every nursing student searches is " How to Sign Up for the NCLEX". Signing up for the NCLEX is kind of a difficult process, which is why I wrote this article on how to sign up for the NCLEX. When I graduated, I had no idea how to do that and had to search the internet endlessly. Yet, as the moment to sit for the NCLEX approaches, a new challenge emerges – the intricate process of signing up for the exam itself. Understanding the complexity and the confusion it entails, this article aims to simplify the path, offering a comprehensive guide on how to successfully register for the NCLEX and streamline the process. Here is the ultimate article on how to sign up for the NCLEX and get your nursing license. This guide is not applicable to all states, as some schools do this process for you before you graduate. With this guide, the aim is to provide a clear, concise roadmap that leads aspiring nurses through the process with confidence and ease.
Signing Up for the NCLEX
1. Get a background check and fingerprinting done.
Fingerprinting and background checks can take a few weeks, and it is important to do this ahead of time. Depending on the state, they can hold your background check and fingerprints for around 60 days as they wait for your application. State regulations usually say that background checks and fingerprints are valid for a specific duration, usually around 60 days. If you graduate in May, you can complete the background check and fingerprinting in April or May.
Depending on the company, they may require you to do them separately. For example, I set up an appointment and completed my background check and fingerprinting through complio.com.
If you choose to do the sheriff's department, it may just include fingerprints and you may need to purchase a background check through a different company. Refer to the state board of nursing in your state to see if they prefer a company.
2. Depending on the state, you may need to graduate first.
Once you have completed the fingerprints, you may or may not need to graduate first. In Colorado and Wyoming, you have to graduate from nursing school to sign up for the NCLEX and apply for your nursing license. Some states allow you to get a form signed by the dean of your nursing school that says you completed your education. Some states on the other hand, may require your official transcripts to be finalized before applying. If this is the case, you may need to wait two weeks for the college transcripts to finalize.
3. Request final transcripts only once your degree has been awarded.
If your degree has not been awarded, the final transcripts are incomplete to the state board of nursing on your application. Depending on the state you are trying to apply for, it may need to be paper mail-in transcripts or electronic transcripts. A degree that has not yet been awarded renders your final transcripts incomplete, potentially jeopardizing the efficacy of your application. Depending on the state board of nursing and their specific requirements, you might encounter variations in their preferred format – paper mail-in transcripts or electronic transcripts.
4. Register for the Pearson Vue website and pay for the NCLEX
You can pay for the NCLEX before sending in your nursing license application, as it is required to do so for some states. This purchase of the NCLEX is good for 365 days or 1 year. So there is no need to worry about not having enough time.
The Pearson Vue website can be difficult to navigate, but this is the website where you need to create an account, pay for the NCLEX, and set your NCLEX date once you receive your ATT number. After receiving your Authorization to Test (ATT) number, this portal becomes vital in scheduling your exam date.
The cost for the NCLEX is $200, and remember the fee allows access to the exam for a full year, granting ample time to prepare and strategize.
To begin your registration process, visit the Pearson Vue website.
5. Send in your nursing license application to the state board of nursing
Once you have paid for the NCLEX, you can send in your nursing license application. The nursing license application process depends on the state you are applying from as some states are electronic, and some are paper send-ins.
The state of Colorado opts for a modern approach, where nursing license applications are filled out electronically. This digital convenience expedites the submission process, sparing applicants with the hassle of paperwork and postal delays. In a state such as Wyoming, the traditional method of paper send-in applications is still being used, requiring candidates to prepare hard copies of their application materials.
The nursing license applications will cost up to $200. The cost of nursing license applications varies depending on the state you're applying to.
6. Wait for your application to be approved and receive the ATT number
Look at your email to check if your nursing license application was approved or flagged for any problems. If your nursing license is approved, you can usually check on the website account for updates, or you may receive the ATT number immediately in your email. The ATT number is an “Authorized to Test” number. It is essentially just a code that allows you to sign up for the NCLEX. You cannot sign up for the NCLEX without this code, as it asks for the code upon trying to pick a date.
Remember, in order to receive the ATT number, you need to first pay for the NCLEX and have your nursing license application approved.
7. Schedule the NCLEX date on the Pearson Vue website
You need to go back to the Pearson Vue website once you have received your ATT number. Log in to the account, and you will see a “schedule your exam” button. There are not a lot of testing centers or dates to pick from, so choose wisely. One key consideration is the availability of testing centers and dates. The options available might not be as abundant as you might expect.
8. Give yourself at least 2 weeks to study unless you are confident
Find yourself a good nursing study program and nursing study guides to help you prepare for the NCLEX. Giving yourself a deadline and a schedule can help prepare you for this exam. Remember that not every program will work for every person. You are the one who knows your own learning style so not all programs are compatible.
Good luck and go ace that exam!
I hope you found this article on how to sign up for the NCLEX to be helpful! Study using your nursing school study guides and nursing school notes! If you are curious on what the actual NCLEX day will look like, I wrote an article about my personal experience and how to navigate the testing day.
I hope I answered your question on how to sign up for the NCLEX!
