NCLEX International Guide: Global Test Centers & The Cheapest States to Apply For
This guide provides key information and unique insights for Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs) preparing for the NCLEX-RN, focusing on test centers and the most cost-effective and strategic choices to save you money.
🌍 NCLEX Exam Centers Worldwide
The NCLEX-RN is administered by Pearson VUE at specific professional centers internationally. This allows IENs to complete the exam without needing to travel to the United States immediately.
| Region | Countries with Pearson VUE Centers (Selection) |
| Asia-Pacific | Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Malaysia, Pakistan, Philippines, Taiwan |
| Europe | France, Spain, Türkiye, United Kingdom (UK) |
| Africa | Kenya, South Africa |
| Americas | Brazil, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, United States (and territories) |
| Middle East | Dubai (UAE), Israel |
💰 The Strategic Choice: Cheapest NCLEX Locations
The total cost for the NCLEX process involves two main components: the exam fee and the licensing board fee. Choosing a state or region that minimizes the latter can save you hundreds of dollars.
The NCLEX-RN exam fee is always $200 USD globally, but you must also pay a fee to the specific U.S. State Board of Nursing (BON) that processes your application.
Top 3 Cheapest US Licensing Boards
| State (BON) | NCLEX Fee | License Fee | Total Est. Cost | Why It’s a Winner |
| Missouri (MO) | $200 | $0 | $200 | Best Value: $0 license fee makes it the cheapest application state. |
| Hawaii (HI) | $200 | $40 | $240 | One of the lowest license fees available. |
| Georgia (GA) | $200 | $40 | $240 | highly competitive processing fee. |
🟢 The Viral Insight: Focus on the “BON” Fee Your travel location does not change the price of the exam itself. Taking the exam in India for a Missouri license costs the same $200 exam fee as taking it in New York.
The Secret: By choosing a board like Missouri, you save the entire state licensing fee at the start of the process. You can always endorse (transfer) your license to your target state later!
The International Scheduling Fee
Note: When taking the NCLEX outside of the country/region where the licensure is sought (e.g., taking the US NCLEX in the Philippines), Pearson VUE typically charges an additional International Scheduling Fee of $150 USD. This fee applies regardless of the international center you choose.
✈️ Travel Tips for NCLEX Abroad (The High-Value Strategy)
For IENs traveling internationally to take the exam, minimizing stress and ensuring focus is critical.
| Strategic Tip | Rationale |
| Book in an Off-Peak Country | If slots are full in your home country (e.g., Philippines), check nearby hubs like Taiwan or the UK. Always weigh the visa cost first. |
| Arrive Early (3-5 Days) | Never arrive the day before. You need 3-5 days to manage jet lag, adjust to the local food/climate, and normalize your sleep schedule. |
| Final Review Focus | Do not start new topics. Use the last few days to review your Cheat Sheets (Pharmacology, Lab Values) and take one short practice test to confirm stamina. |
| Secure On-Site Accommodation | Book a hotel within walking distance of the Pearson VUE center. Eliminating traffic stress on exam day is worth the extra cost. |
| Check Local ID Requirements | The ID at the center must exactly match the name on your ATT. Ensure your passport is original and not expired. |
