From NLE passer to US-licensed nurse: The step-by-step guide for Filipino nurses.
Congratulations—you passed the Nursing Licensure Examination! You’re now officially a Registered Nurse in the Philippines. But for many Filipino nurses, the NLE isn’t the finish line—it’s the starting point.
Every year, thousands of newly licensed Filipino nurses set their sights on the United States, where nursing opportunities, salaries, and career growth far exceed what’s available locally. In 2024 alone, over 28,000 Filipino nurses took the NCLEX, making the Philippines one of the top sources of internationally educated nurses (IENs) in America.
This guide will walk you through the complete journey from NLE passer to NCLEX candidate. We’ll cover timelines, costs, requirements, and the strategic decisions that will set you up for success.
Understanding the NLE-to-NCLEX Timeline
The typical timeline from passing your NLE to taking the NCLEX is 6-12 months, depending on how quickly you complete your credential evaluations and English proficiency requirements.
Key Milestones
| Stage | Timeline | Description |
|---|---|---|
| NLE Results Release | ~2-3 weeks post-exam | PRC announces results |
| Oath-Taking & PRC Registration | 1-2 weeks after results | Receive your PIC |
| CGFNS/VisaScreen Application | Start immediately | 4-6 months processing |
| IELTS/OET Exam | Anytime (do early!) | Scores valid 2 years |
| State BON Application | After CGFNS or concurrently | 2-6 months (varies by state) |
| ATT Received | After state approval | Valid 90 days typically |
| NCLEX Exam | Schedule immediately | Take within ATT validity |
Pro Tip: Start your CGFNS application and IELTS preparation immediately after passing the NLE. These are the two longest delays in the process.
Step 1: Get Your Philippine Credentials in Order
Before you can apply for anything international, you need your local documentation complete.
Required Documents
| Document | Where to Get It | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Professional Identification Card (PIC) | PRC | After oath-taking |
| Transcript of Records (TOR) | Your nursing school | Request “Certified True Copy” |
| Curriculum/Syllabus | Your nursing school | Shows course hours and content |
| Clinical Hours Summary | Your nursing school | Required by CGFNS |
| NBI Clearance | NBI | For immigration/background checks |
| Passport | DFA | Apply early if you don’t have one |
RAGRS Tip: Request multiple certified copies of your TOR and other school documents. You’ll need them for CGFNS, state boards, and potentially immigration later.
Step 2: Choose Your Pathway
There are two main routes Filipino nurses take to NCLEX eligibility:
Option A: CGFNS VisaScreen Certificate (Most Common)
What it is: A comprehensive screening that verifies your nursing education, licensure, and English proficiency. Required for US work visas.
Who needs it:
- Nurses applying for EB-3 immigrant visas
- Nurses using most employer-sponsored visa pathways
- Anyone who wants a complete, portable credential evaluation
Cost: $540-$850 (depending on services selected)
Timeline: 4-6 months
Option B: Direct State Board of Nursing Application
What it is: Apply directly to a specific US state for licensure eligibility, skipping CGFNS.
Popular States for Direct Application:
- California (BRN): Long processing times (6-12+ months), but large Filipino community
- Texas: Faster processing, many hospital systems
- New York: Major metropolitan opportunities
- Florida: Growing healthcare market
Note: Even with direct state application, you’ll likely need VisaScreen later for immigration purposes.
Step 3: Complete English Proficiency Requirements
Almost every pathway requires proof of English proficiency through IELTS Academic or OET.
CGFNS/VisaScreen Requirements
| Component | Minimum Score |
|---|---|
| Overall IELTS | 6.5 |
| Speaking | 7.0 |
| Other sections | No specific minimum |
Strategy for Filipino Nurses
- Take IELTS early — This is often the biggest delay if you need retakes
- Focus on Speaking — The 7.0 requirement is strict
- Consider OET — Healthcare-specific, may feel more familiar
- Budget for retakes — Many nurses need 2-3 attempts
For detailed IELTS strategies, see our IELTS for Nurses 2025-2026 Guide.
Step 4: Start NCLEX Preparation
The best time to start NCLEX prep is immediately after passing the NLE, while your nursing knowledge is still fresh.
How NCLEX Differs from NLE
| Aspect | NLE | NCLEX |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Fixed 500 questions | Adaptive (70-135+ questions) |
| Focus | Knowledge recall | Clinical judgment & application |
| Question Style | Mostly traditional MCQ | NGN, SATA, case studies |
| Prioritization | Less emphasis | Critical (15-20% of exam) |
| Delegation | Limited | Major focus (US scope of practice) |
Key Focus Areas for Filipino Nurses
- Clinical Judgment (NGN) — New question types require different approach
- Prioritization & Delegation — US scope of practice differs from PH
- Pharmacology — Drug names, dosages, and safety protocols
- Test-taking strategies — CAT format is different from board exams
For a complete study schedule, see our 2026 NCLEX Study Plan for Filipino Nurses.
Step 5: Apply for ATT and Schedule Your Exam
What is ATT?
The Authorization to Test (ATT) is your permission to schedule and take the NCLEX. It’s issued by Pearson VUE after your state board approves your application.
ATT Details
- Validity: Typically 90 days (varies by state)
- Extension: Rarely granted—schedule immediately
- Testing locations: Philippines (Manila, Cebu) or USA if on valid visa
Scheduling Tips
- Schedule immediately upon receiving ATT
- Choose morning slots — Test when you’re mentally fresh
- Book early — Popular centers fill up fast
- Have a backup date — In case of emergencies
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Waiting too long to start credential evaluation — Begin CGFNS immediately after passing NLE
❌ Not taking IELTS early enough — This is the #1 cause of timeline delays
❌ Assuming NLE preparation works for NCLEX — They are fundamentally different exams
❌ Underestimating prioritization/delegation — Filipino nurses often struggle here due to different hospital culture
❌ Not budgeting properly — The full process costs $2,000-$5,000+
NLE to NCLEX: Budget Breakdown
Plan your finances before you start:
| Item | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| CGFNS VisaScreen | $540-$850 |
| IELTS Exam (may need 2-3 attempts) | $200-$750 |
| State BON Application | $100-$400 |
| NCLEX Exam Fee | $200 |
| NCLEX Prep (QBank, Review Course) | $200-$500 |
| Document Authentication/Shipping | $50-$150 |
| TOTAL | $1,300-$2,850 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long after passing NLE can I take NCLEX?
Most Filipino nurses take NCLEX 6-12 months after passing the NLE. The timeline depends on how quickly you complete CGFNS evaluation, IELTS, and state board application.
Do I need CGFNS to take NCLEX?
Not necessarily for the exam itself—some states allow direct application. However, you will need VisaScreen for most US work visas, so CGFNS is usually required eventually.
Can I work as a nurse in the Philippines while waiting for NCLEX?
Yes! Many nurses gain clinical experience in Philippine hospitals while processing their US applications. This experience can actually help your NCLEX preparation by keeping your skills sharp.
Which US state is easiest for Filipino nurses to apply to?
Texas and Florida are often cited for faster processing times. California has the largest Filipino nursing community but also the longest processing times. Research current timelines before deciding.
Your US Nursing Career Starts Here
The journey from NLE passer to NCLEX candidate requires planning, patience, and preparation. But thousands of Filipino nurses make this transition successfully every year—and you can too.
At Ray A. Gapuz Review System, we specialize in bridging the gap between Philippine nursing education and US licensure requirements. Our NLE-to-NCLEX transition programs are designed specifically for Filipino nurses ready to take the next step.
Ready to start your NCLEX journey?
Contact Ray A. Gapuz Review System:
- Website: raygapuzreviewsystem.com
- Location: United Nations Avenue, Manila
- Programs: NLE Review, NCLEX Review, NLE-to-NCLEX Bridge Programs