Can Indian Students Take the NCLEX in Canada? (2025 Guide for International Nurses)

(Updated April 2025)

If you're an Indian nursing student or graduate looking to practice in Canada or the United States, you might be wondering: Can I take the NCLEX in Canada? The answer is yes—but there's a process.

In this comprehensive 2025 guide, we’ll walk you through how Indian nurses and international students can apply for and take the NCLEX-RN exam in Canada. We’ll cover eligibility, testing centers, the NNAS process, common costs, and frequently asked questions.

📌 Whether you’re planning to live and work in Canada or the U.S., understanding the NCLEX pathway is your first step to becoming a licensed nurse abroad.

🌍 Who Can Take the NCLEX in Canada?

As of 2025, any eligible nursing graduate—including those from India—can apply to take the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN in Canada.

To be eligible, you must:

• Have graduated from an accredited nursing program
• Apply for licensure through a Canadian provincial nursing body (like BCCNM or CNO)
• Complete the NNAS assessment

Once approved, you'll receive authorization to take the NCLEX exam in Canada or any available international test center.

📍 Where Are NCLEX Exams Offered in Canada?

You can take the NCLEX at official Pearson VUE testing centers in the following Canadian cities:

• Toronto, Ontario
• Vancouver, British Columbia
• Calgary, Alberta
• Montreal, Quebec
• Halifax, Nova Scotia

🧭 View the full test center list on Pearson VUE’s NCLEX site

🧾 What Is the NNAS?

The National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) is the credentialing body that reviews international nursing education and experience for Canada.

You must complete the NNAS process before applying to a provincial regulatory body like:

• CNO – Ontario
• BCCNM – British Columbia
• CARNA – Alberta

The NNAS process includes:

1. Creating an account at nnas.ca
2. Submitting transcripts, identity docs, and registration verification
3. Completing an online self-assessment
4. Receiving an Advisory Report (Comparable / Somewhat Comparable / Not Comparable)

📘 Tip: The NNAS review can take 4–6 months. Apply early!

📝 Step-by-Step: How Indian Nurses Can Take the NCLEX in Canada

Step 1: Graduate from an Approved Nursing Program

Complete a B.Sc Nursing or GNM diploma from an accredited institution in India.

Step 2: Apply to NNAS

Register at nnas.ca and choose your intended province. Pay the fee (about CAD $650).

Step 3: Submit Required Documents

• Nursing school transcripts (sent directly from the school)
• Proof of Indian registration/license
• Valid passport or ID

Step 4: Receive Advisory Report

After document verification, NNAS will issue a report that’s shared with your provincial regulator.

Step 5: Apply to a Provincial Nursing Body

Each province has different application steps, timelines, and costs. Once they approve you, you’ll receive your Authorization to Test (ATT).

Step 6: Register for the NCLEX

Create a Pearson VUE account, pay the exam fee, and book a testing location.

Step 7: Take the NCLEX Exam

Sit for the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN at a Canadian test center (or elsewhere, if preferred).

🎓 RN or PN: Which NCLEX Should You Take?

• B.Sc Nursing graduates → NCLEX-RN
• GNM diploma holders → May be eligible for NCLEX-PN (check with province)

🔍 Each province decides eligibility. Always verify before applying.

💸 Cost Breakdown for Indian Nurses (2025)

💡 Estimated Total: CAD $1,600 – $2,000
(does not include immigration or visa processing fees)

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the NCLEX while living in India?

Yes, once you complete the NNAS and are approved by a Canadian province, you can take the NCLEX in India or Canada, depending on testing availability.

Do I need IELTS or TOEFL?

Most provinces require English proficiency. The most accepted exams are IELTS Academic or CELBAN. Check your provincial regulator’s exact requirement.

How long does the entire process take?

Approximately 8 to 12 months from start to finish, depending on document processing and exam scheduling.

What if I fail the NCLEX?

You can retake the exam after a 45-day waiting period. There’s no lifetime limit, but some provinces may limit yearly attempts.

Can I work in Canada right after passing the NCLEX?

Only if you're registered with a provincial nursing college and obtain a valid work permit or permanent residency through Canadian immigration.

🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping NNAS (it’s mandatory)
• Submitting unofficial or incomplete transcripts
• Underestimating the NCLEX exam difficulty
• Not reviewing province-specific licensure rules
• Assuming NCLEX success guarantees a work visa

🧠 What to Expect on NCLEX Exam Day

• 85–150 adaptive questions
• Up to 5 hours in total duration
• Types of questions:
  • Multiple-choice
  • Select-all-that-apply (SATA)
  • Ordered response
  • Drag and drop
  • Case-based (Next Gen NCLEX)

📘 Learn more: Different Types of NCLEX Questions

📘 More Articles to Help You Prep

• Secrets to Success on the NCLEX
• Ultimate NCLEX Vocabulary Guide (2025)
• 25 Nursing Mnemonics That Actually Work

✅ Final Takeaway

Yes, Indian nurses can take the NCLEX in Canada. The process includes applying through NNAS, getting provincial approval, and passing the exam.

It’s not quick or cheap, but it’s absolutely achievable—and GoodNurse is here to help.

✨ Start now at GoodNurse.com for AI-powered practice questions, study guides, and real-world NCLEX tips.