NCLEX Application Guide for International Nurses: How to Apply for New York RN Licensure Without CGFNS

For many internationally educated nurses (IENs), New York is one of the most popular states for obtaining RN licensure in the United States. One major reason is that New York does not require the CGFNS Certification Program before taking the NCLEX.

Instead, the New York State Education Department (NYSED) evaluates your credentials directly and determines whether you are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.

This MedOpportunities guide provides a step-by-step process for international nurses applying for NCLEX through New York without CGFNS certification, including requirements, costs, and timelines.

Why Many International Nurses Choose New York
New York is one of the most IMG-friendly states because:

CGFNS Certification Program is not required
The credential review is handled by NYSED
International nurses can apply directly for licensure
Many hospitals in New York hire foreign-trained nurses

However, applicants must still complete the credential verification process required by the state.

Requirements for International Nurses Applying in New York

Before applying for the NCLEX through New York, international nurses must meet several requirements.

Nursing Education

• You must graduate from a recognized nursing program outside the United States.
• Your education must include both:
  • Theoretical training
  • Clinical training
• The program must be comparable to U.S. nursing education.

Nursing License Verification

You must hold a valid nursing license in your home country or the country where you were trained.
The licensing authority must send verification directly to NYSED.

Infection Control Course

New York requires all nurses to complete an approved Infection Control course before licensure.

This course is usually:

• 2–3 hours long
• Available online
• Costs around $20–$40

Child Abuse Identification Course

Another requirement for New York RN licensure is the Child Abuse Identification and Reporting course.

This course teaches healthcare professionals how to identify and report child abuse cases.

Step-by-Step NCLEX Application Process for New York

Step 1: Submit Form 1 – Application for Licensure

The first step is to apply for RN licensure with the New York State Education Department (NYSED).

You will complete Form 1: Application for Licensure online.

Application fee:
$143

After submitting Form 1, you will receive an application file number.

Step 2: Submit Form 2 – Certification of Professional Education

Your nursing school must complete Form 2 and send it directly to NYSED.

This form verifies:

• Your nursing education
• Your training program
• Graduation status

Some schools send transcripts electronically, while others use postal mail.

Step 3: Submit Form 3 – Verification of Licensure

If you are licensed in your home country, the licensing authority must complete Form 3.

This confirms that your nursing license is valid and in good standing.

Step 4: Complete Required New York Courses

Before receiving your RN license, you must complete:

• Infection Control Course
• Child Abuse Identification Course

Both courses can be taken online from NYSED-approved providers.

Step 5: Register for the NCLEX Exam

After applying to NYSED, you must also register for the NCLEX with Pearson VUE.

NCLEX registration fee:
$200

Pearson VUE is the official organization that administers the exam.

👉🏻 Practice NCLEX styled questions on MedOpportunities

Step 6: Wait for Eligibility Approval

NYSED will review your:

• Application
• Education credentials
• License verification
• Once approved, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) email from Pearson VUE.

Processing time may take 3–6 months depending on document verification.

Step 7: Schedule the NCLEX Exam

After receiving your ATT, you can schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE testing center.

The exam is available in:

• United States
• Canada
• Kenya
• Many international testing locations

NCLEX Exam Structure (Next Generation NCLEX)

The Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) uses a computer-adaptive format.

Exam details include:

• Minimum questions: 85
• Maximum questions: 150
• Exam duration: Up to 5 hours

The exam evaluates clinical judgment and safe patient care decision-making.

👉🏻 Read about Top 7 U.S. States Where International Nurses Can Take NCLEX Without CGFNS

Cost of the New York NCLEX Pathway

Estimated total cost:
$500 – $800+

This is significantly cheaper than pathways requiring CGFNS certification.

Processing Time

The entire process can take several months, depending on document verification.
Typical timeline:

Submitting documents early can help avoid delays.

Advantages of the New York NCLEX Pathway

Many international nurses choose New York because it offers several benefits.

• No CGFNS Certification Program
• Applicants do not need to take the CGFNS qualifying exam.
• Lower Costs
• Skipping CGFNS can save hundreds of dollars.

• Direct Credential Review

  New York evaluates education directly instead of relying on external certification programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can international nurses apply to New York without CGFNS?

  Yes. New York does not require the CGFNS Certification Program, although your education must still be verified.

• Can I take the NCLEX outside the United States?

  Yes. The NCLEX can be taken at international Pearson VUE testing centers.

• Can I work in another state after getting a New York license?

  Yes. You can apply for license endorsement to transfer your RN license to another state.

Official Resources

New York State Education Department (Nursing Licensure)
visit⁠

NCLEX Candidate Information
visit⁠

Pearson VUE NCLEX Registration
see more⁠