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So, you’re ready to take the next step in your nursing career and become a licensed registered nurse. That means taking the NCLEX exam.
This standardized test is the first step for all aspiring RNs to obtain their license. But before you start studying and enroll in the best program, let’s talk about the NCLEX test cost. Knowing the costs will help avoid any surprises. We’ll break it down for you.
NCLEX Test Cost Breakdown for Canada, the USA, & Australia
The NCLEX exam is primarily recognized in Canada, the United States of America, and Australia. No matter which of these three countries you want the nursing license for, we’ll give you the most accurate NCLEX test cost breakdown.
| Fees Breakdown | For Canadian Licensure | For US Licensure | For Australian Licensure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registration Fees | $360 CAD (excl. local taxes) | $200 USD | ~ $300 AUD |
| Addn. International Scheduling Fee | $150 CAD | $150 USD | ~ $224 AUD |
| Change Nursing Regulatory Body (After Registration Fees) | $50 CAD | $50 USD | Not Applicable |
| Change Exam Type (between RN & PN) (After Registration Fees) | Not Applicable | $50 USD | Not Applicable |
| Change Exam Language (Between English & French) (After Registration Fees) | $50 CAD | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
*Data collected from NCSBN.
** Additional fees for licensure will be determined & can change at discretion of individual Regulatory bodies/State Boards of Nursing.
*** Local taxes may apply.
To pay for these fees, the candidates will need a MasterCard, VISA, or AmEx credit, debit, or prepaid card. If you don’t receive the confirmation within 2 days of paying these fees, contact the nursing regulatory authority.
Note: DO NOT submit another application for NCLEX registration before contacting the authorities.
If you are submitting another application, first stop the previous, original payment.
NCLEX Test Cost in Detail
NCLEX test cost is a crucial factor to consider when planning your nursing career. So you need to understand every little detail.
(1) Registration Fees
This is the core fee for registering for the NCLEX exam. This fee is charged to all candidates, regardless of their residency status. It helps to support the ongoing development and maintenance of the NCLEX exam.
(2) Addn. International Scheduling Fee
If you are an international candidate from outside the United States, Canada, or Australia, trying to get a license in these countries, you will be charged this additional fee. It’s intended to cover the extra costs associated with scheduling and administering the exam in international testing centers.
(3) Change Nursing Regulatory Body (After Registration Fees)
If you need to change the nursing regulatory body associated with your NCLEX registration after paying the initial registration fees, you will be charged this fee. It involves the cost to update your registration information and coordinate with the new regulatory body.
(4) Change Exam Type (between RN & PN) (After Registration Fees)
If you decide to change the exam type you are taking (from RN to PN or vice versa) after paying the initial registration fees, you will be charged this fee. It covers the additional costs associated with modifying your exam registration.
(5) Change Exam Language (Between English & French) (After Registration Fees)
If you need to change the language of the NCLEX exam (between English and French) after paying the initial registration fees, you will be charged this fee.
Is There a Refund Policy on NCLEX Exam Fees?
No, your NCLEX test fees won’t be refunded for any reason, including but not limited to:
- Duplicate registrations (You, as a candidate, can’t have more than one application simultaneously).
- You fail to reschedule and/or cancel the exam appointment at least 24 business hours in advance.
- You fail to appear for the NCLEX exam appointment.
Note: You WILL NOT get a refund of the international scheduling fees for any reason.
Do NCLEX Exam Costs Differ for RN & PN?
Yes, the cost of the NCLEX exam can differ between RN and PN. The specific fee structure may vary depending on your location and the nursing regulatory body overseeing the exam.
Generally, the RN exam tends to have a higher fee compared to the PN exam. This is because the RN exam covers a broader range of nursing knowledge and skills, which means a more extensive testing process.
However, it’s important to follow the official nursing guidelines in your jurisdiction for the most accurate and up-to-date fee-related information. Or you may connect with the FBNPC team, who are always there to help with any queries related to NCLEX exam preparation.
NCLEX Veterans Reimbursement Program (Only for the Candidates Applying in the USA)
As a part of the Veterans Reimbursement Program, eligible veterans and their dependents can offset their NCLEX exam fees and register to get a nursing license. The regulatory body checks the veterans’ identities from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
As of now, there is no particular limit as to how many times a veteran can take the NCLEX test and apply for reimbursement.
How to Request for Reimbursement?
The candidate will need a VA Form 22-0803 along with the initial reimbursement requests. It will be sent to their local office of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
To send the application for reimbursement, the candidate will need to include:
- Test name
- Test results
- Exam date
- Name and address of the nursing regulatory body issuing the licensure.
- Cost of the exam
To get more info on the reimbursement, visit the Department of Veteran Affairs website.
FAQs on NCLEX Test Cost
Q.1 Are there any discounts or fee waivers available for the NCLEX exam?
Some nursing regulatory bodies may offer discounts or fee waivers in certain circumstances, such as for military veterans or candidates from underserved populations. However, these policies can vary, so it’s best to check with your specific regulatory body.
Q.2 Will I be eligible for a refund in case of technical difficulties during the NCLEX exam?
No, the authorities do not offer refunds on NCLEX exam fees for any reason. Occasionally, technical problems may entail exam rescheduling for the candidate. To get more details on this matter, you may consult with the experts at FBNPC.
Q.3 How can I determine the specific fees that apply to me as an international candidate?
You should consult the official website of the nursing regulatory body in your country or the country where you plan to take the exam. They will provide detailed information on the fees and any applicable policies.
Let’s Conclude the NCLEX Test Cost
Understanding the NCLEX exam fees is an essential step in your journey towards becoming a licensed nurse. By knowing the various costs involved, you can effectively plan your budget and avoid any surprises.
Key points to remember:
- Registration fees: These are the core fees associated with registering for the NCLEX exam.
- Additional fees: International candidates may be subject to additional fees, such as international scheduling fees.
- Change fees: If you need to change your exam date, exam type, or language, you may be charged additional fees.
- Refund policies: There are generally no refund policies in place for NCLEX exam fees, but specific conditions and procedures may vary.
For the most accurate info on the NCLEX exam and the best course for preparation, connect with FBNPC and enroll in our NCLEX program today!
