Becoming a registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN) is an exciting milestone, but before you can hang your license on the wall, you need to pass the NCLEX exam. While the journey to becoming a nurse can be challenging, understanding the costs associated with the NCLEX is crucial for managing your finances and avoiding any surprises.
Whether you’re an International Medical Graduate (IMG) or a nursing student in North America, this guide will break down the NCLEX exam fees, explore additional charges, and provide money-saving tips to help you navigate the costs of becoming a nurse.
NCLEX Exam Fees: What Are You Really Paying For?
The NCLEX exam fee varies depending on several factors, including the type of exam, the country you’re applying for licensure in, and any changes you make to your registration after paying the initial fee.
Here’s a quick overview of the basic registration fees:
| Exam Type | U.S. Licensure | Canadian Licensure | Australian Licensure |
| NCLEX-RN Registration Fee | $200 USD | $360 CAD | $200 USD |
| NCLEX-PN Registration Fee | $200 USD | N/A | $200 USD |
| International Scheduling Fee | $150 USD | $150 CAD | $150 USD |
| Change of Exam Type Fee | $50 USD | N/A | N/A |
| Change of Exam Language Fee | N/A | $50 CAD | N/A |
| Change of NRB Fee | $50 USD | $50 CAD | N/A |
These fees are standard but may vary based on taxes, currency exchange rates, and other factors, so always check with your local Board of Nursing (BON) or the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).
What Happens If You Need to Change Something After Registering?
Life happens, and sometimes you need to change your exam details after registering. While there are options to modify your registration, they often come with extra fees:
- Change in Nursing Regulatory Body (NRB): If you’ve already registered but decide to change the NRB (the body that issues your nursing license), expect to pay a $50 USD (or $50 CAD) fee in the U.S. and Canada. Unfortunately, this option isn’t available for candidates seeking licensure in Australia.
- Changing Exam Type: If you’re registered to take the NCLEX-RN and want to switch to NCLEX-PN, you’ll need to pay a $50 USD fee. This change isn’t allowed for candidates seeking Canadian or Australian licensure.
- Changing Exam Language: Want to change your exam language from English to French? This change will cost $50 CAD for Canadian candidates.
Payment Methods: How to Pay for Your NCLEX Exam
The NCSBN accepts a variety of payment methods to make the process as smooth as possible:
- Credit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted.
- Debit Cards: Valid debit cards can be used.
- Prepaid Cards: Prepaid cards are also acceptable for payment.
- Third-Party Payments: In certain cases, a third party (such as an employer) can pay the registration fees.
Keep in mind that all payments are made directly through Pearson VUE, the official testing agency for the NCLEX exam.
Additional Fees You Should Be Aware Of
In addition to the registration and scheduling fees, there are other costs associated with the NCLEX exam that may catch you off guard if you’re not prepared:
- Rescheduling Fee: If you need to change the date or time of your exam, there’s a $150 USD rescheduling fee, plus any applicable taxes.
- No-Show: Missing your exam means forfeiting both your exam fee and Authorization to Test (ATT). If you miss your appointment, you’ll need to pay again and reschedule (with an added fee).
Tips to Save Money on the NCLEX Exam
The NCLEX exam isn’t cheap, but with a little planning, you can minimize costs. Here are some ways to save:
- Ask for Fee Waivers: If you’re facing financial hardship, some states may offer NCLEX fee waivers. Check with your state nursing board for eligibility.
- Look for Scholarships: Many organizations offer scholarships or grants for nursing students to help with the cost of the NCLEX. Websites like Smart’n offer scholarship programs, including monthly $300 grants for members who meet specific criteria.
- Avoid Retakes: The most cost-effective way to approach the NCLEX is to prepare well before your exam. Retaking the exam means paying the full fee again. Take your time to study thoroughly and take advantage of free review resources.
- Plan Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to register for your exam. Early registration can help you avoid late fees. Also, consider scheduling your exam during non-peak periods when the test fee may be lower.
- Employer Assistance: Some employers offer reimbursement for NCLEX exam fees. It’s worth checking with your current or potential employer to see if they have any reimbursement programs in place.
- Test in a Neighboring State: If you’re in the U.S. and live near a state with lower testing fees, consider traveling to that state for your exam. Fees vary by location, so doing a bit of research could save you money.
Refunds: What You Need to Know
Once you’ve paid the NCLEX registration fee, there are no refunds under any circumstances. This means that if you:
- Miss your exam,
- Fail to reschedule on time, or
- Accidentally register twice,
You won’t get your money back. However, if you need to cancel or reschedule, be sure to do it at least 24 hours before your appointment to avoid additional fees.
Final Thoughts: Planning for NCLEX Exam Costs
The NCLEX exam fees can feel overwhelming, but being informed about the breakdown of costs and planning ahead can make the process less stressful. Whether you’re an IMG preparing for the exam in the U.S., Canada, or Australia, or you’re a nursing student in North America, knowing the ins and outs of NCLEX fees will help you budget effectively and avoid any unexpected costs.
The road to becoming a licensed nurse is filled with challenges, but with careful preparation and a clear understanding of the NCLEX costs, you’ll be one step closer to achieving your nursing goals.
