Are the Australian NCLEX-RN and US NCLEX-RN the same?

While the core NCLEX-RN exam itself is fundamentally the same, there are significant differences in the overall process of becoming a registered nurse in Australia versus the United States. Here’s a breakdown:

Core NCLEX-RN Exam:

• Same Test:
  • The actual NCLEX-RN exam, which assesses entry-level nursing competence, is the same regardless of whether you’re pursuing registration in the U.S. or Australia.1 It’s administered by Pearson VUE and developed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).2

Key Differences:

• Licensing Process:
  • U.S.:
    • The licensing process is managed by individual state boards of nursing.3 Each state has its own requirements, which can vary.
    • Passing the NCLEX-RN is a major step in obtaining a nursing license in a specific U.S. state.
  • Australia:
    • The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) oversees the registration of nurses.
    • In Australia, in addition to the NCLEX-RN, internationally qualified nurses are required to undertake an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE).6 This is a practical, clinical skills assessment.
    • Therefore in Australia, after passing the NCLEX-RN, the candidate must pass the OSCE.
• Application and Requirements:
  • The application processes, fees, and specific requirements differ between the U.S. state boards and AHPRA.
  • Also, the way that results are given out differs.
• Credential Evaluation:
  • There are different credential evaluation processes that need to be followed depending on if you are trying to work in the US or Australia.

In essence:

• The NCLEX-RN exam tests the same nursing knowledge and skills.7
• The pathways to licensure, including additional assessments and regulatory bodies, are distinct between the U.S. and Australia.

Therefore, while the test itself is the same, the processes required to work as a registered nurse are very different.

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NCLEX Exam Guide and Practice Questions
https://www.mihiraa.com/nclex-exam-guide-and-practice-questions/