Registered Nurse license in New Jersey for internationally-educated professionals
Internationally-educated RN path via CGFNS/TruMerit CES course-by-course report, NCLEX-RN, and Board examination application. New Jersey joined the Nurse Licensure Compact in 2025.
- Steps
- 6
- Licensing process cost
- $1,155–$1,275
1Get your CGFNS/TruMerit CES report
New Jersey requires a CGFNS/TruMerit Credentials Evaluation Service course-by-course report ($485). The agency collects transcripts and license verification directly from your school and licensing authority — this is often the slowest step.
$485
Source · Verified August 2026
2English proficiency exam (if required)
TOEFL is required unless you qualify for an exemption — confirm your specific case with the Board before paying for a test date.
$180–$300
Source · Verified August 2026
3Apply to the New Jersey Board of Nursing
Submit the examination application. Total Board fees for internationally-educated applicants: $225 — a higher tier than the $200 for US-educated applicants. Fingerprinting via IdentoGo (~$65) is completed after you apply.
$290
Source · Verified August 2026
4Register for the NCLEX-RN
Register with Pearson VUE ($200). Test only after the Board issues your Authorization to Test.
$200
Source · Verified August 2026
5Pass the NCLEX-RN
The national licensing exam. If unsuccessful, there is a 45-day wait before retaking.
No cost
Source · Verified August 2026
6License issued — start working
The Board issues your New Jersey RN license. New Jersey joined the Nurse Licensure Compact in 2025 — an NJ license may carry multistate privileges if you meet the compact's uniform licensure requirements.
No cost
Source · Verified August 2026
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