The Saudi Prometric Exam for Nurses (SNLE): Your Complete Guide to 2025 Licensure

A complete guide to the Saudi Prometric Exam (SNLE) for Registered Nurses. Learn about eligibility, the application process, the exam syllabus, and proven preparation strategies for 2024.

Introduction: Your Gateway to a Nursing Career in Saudi Arabia

The Saudi Nursing Licensure Examination (SNLE), commonly known as the Saudi Prometric Exam for Nurses, is the mandatory national test for all Registered Nurses—both local and internationally trained—who wish to practice in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Managed by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS), this exam ensures all healthcare professionals meet the Kingdom’s high standards for quality patient care. This guide will walk you through every step, from eligibility to your first day on the job.

1. Understanding the SNLE and SCFHS Landscape

What is the SCFHS?

The Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) is the official government body that regulates and certifies all healthcare professionals in Saudi Arabia. They are responsible for:

• Administering the SNLE exam.
• Issuing professional licenses and classification cards.
• Overseeing the healthcare system’s standards.

Most of your interaction with the SCFHS will be through their online portal, Mumaris Plus.

What is the Saudi Prometric Exam?

Prometric is a global testing company that partners with the SCFHS to deliver the SNLE. This partnership allows for a standardized and secure testing process at Prometric test centers located worldwide, often in your home country.

Why is the SNLE Mandatory?

Passing the SNLE is a non-negotiable requirement for all foreign nurses before a work visa is issued. This policy ensures that all incoming nurses are qualified before they arrive in Saudi Arabia, streamlining the hiring process for employers and safeguarding the quality of care.

2. SNLE Eligibility: Are You Qualified?

To apply for the SNLE, you must meet these criteria set by the SCFHS.

Requirement 

Educational Qualification – A recognized primary nursing degree, such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Graduates with GNM, BSc, or MSc degrees are also eligible.

Professional Experience – Typically a minimum of two years of post-graduate experience for Registered Nurses. Some sources note that GNM holders may require a three-year period.

DataFlow Verification – Mandatory Primary Source Verification (PSV) of your credentials (degree, license, experience) through the DataFlow Group. This can take 30-45 days.

SCFHS Eligibility ID – After DataFlow approval, you must obtain an Eligibility ID via the Mumaris Plus portal. This ID is only valid for 3 months, so you must book your exam quickly. 

Pro Tip: Start gathering your documents (degree, transcripts, license, experience letters, passport) early. Any discrepancy in your DataFlow application can cause significant delays.

3. The SNLE Exam Format: What to Expect on Test Day

The SNLE is a computer-based test (CBT) consisting entirely of multiple-choice questions (MCQs).

Exam Details

Format: Computer-Based Test (CBT)

Question Type: Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)

Total Questions: 200 (Note: Up to 10% are unscored pilot questions)

Exam Structure: 2 parts, with 100 questions each

Time Allotted: 2 hours per part (4 hours total)

Scheduled Break: 30 minutes between parts

Passing Score: 500 out of 800 (a scaled score, not a percentage)

Retake Policy: Up to 3 attempts per calendar year

The questions are a mix of:

Recall Questions: Testing your foundational knowledge.

Scenario-Based Questions: Assessing your clinical judgment, decision-making, and problem-solving skills in real-world situations.

4. SNLE Syllabus & Content Breakdown: What to Study

Your study plan should be guided by the official SCFHS blueprint. The table below shows the weighted distribution of topics.

Subject Area – Official Weighting – Key Topics

Adult Nursing – 40% – Medical-Surgical nursing, critical care, emergency care, and management of acute and chronic conditions in adults.

Maternal-Child Nursing – 30% – Maternal and newborn health, women’s health, and pediatric nursing care.

Nursing Fundamentals – 20% – Basic nursing principles, physical assessment, pharmacology, clinical nutrition, and prioritization of care.

Nursing Management & Leadership – 10% – Leadership functions, quality and safety management, nursing informatics, and evidence-based practice.

Key Takeaway: With 40% of the exam dedicated to Adult Nursing, this should be the primary focus of your study efforts.

5. The Step-by-Step Application Process

Navigating the application process correctly is critical for success. Follow these steps in order:

1. Gather Documents: Collect all required documents (degree, license, experience letters, passport).
2. Complete DataFlow PSV: Submit your credentials to the DataFlow Group for verification. (Timeline: 30-45 days)
3. Get Your SCFHS Eligibility ID: Upon DataFlow approval, apply for your Eligibility ID on the Mumaris Plus portal. (Valid for 3 months)
4. Book Your Prometric Slot: Use your Eligibility ID to schedule your exam at a Prometric test center. You must pay the exam fee (approx. $239) at this stage.
5. Take the SNLE Exam: Arrive early and well-prepared for your 4-hour exam.

 Why Many Nurses Seek Help: This multi-step process is complex and time-sensitive. This is why many candidates use specialized assistance centers (like NEAC, Trueway International, or Ray Gapuz) for end-to-end support and to avoid costly mistakes.

6. How to Prepare: Study Resources & Strategies

Official SCFHS Textbooks

The SCFHS provides a list of recommended textbooks. These are your most authoritative sources for content review. Key texts include:

Fundamentals: Kozier & Erb’s Fundamentals of Nursing, Timby’s Fundamental Nursing Skills

Adult Nursing: Brunner & Suddarth’s Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing

Maternal-Child: Wong’s Essentials of Pediatric Nursing, Foundations of Maternal-Newborn Nursing

Management: Leadership Roles and Management Functions in Nursing

7. After the Exam: Results, Classification, and Licensure

Results: You will receive a preliminary “Pass/Fail” report at the test center. Official results are typically released within 2-6 weeks.

Professional Classification: Once you pass, the SCFHS will issue your Professional Classification (usually within 2 weeks of official results).

Final Licensure & Visa: Your employing hospital in Saudi Arabia will use your classification to sponsor your work visa and complete the final licensure steps. This final process can take 8-12 weeks.

Final Recommendations for Success

1. Verify Everything Officially: Always double-check requirements on the official SCFHS website. Don’t rely on unofficial or outdated sources.
2. Start Early and Be Organized: Begin document collection and DataFlow verification months in advance.
3. Study Smart: Base your study plan on the official SCFHS blueprint, focusing heavily on high-weightage areas.
4. Practice Under Pressure: Simulate the real exam with timed practice tests to build speed and confidence.
5. Consider Your Support Options: If the process seems daunting, investing in a reputable application and coaching center can save you time, money, and stress.

Embarking on a nursing career in Saudi Arabia is an exciting opportunity. By understanding and meticulously following this process, you can successfully navigate the SNLE and take the next step in your professional journey.

Saudi Prometric Resources for Nurses

Saudi Prometric Nursing Exam Materials
https://www.mihiraa.com/saudi-prometric-nursing-exam-materials/