You graduated nursing school years ago—maybe five, maybe ten. And now you’re staring down the NCLEX like it’s a locked door you no longer have the key for.
Maybe life happened: immigration delays, personal hardship, or working in another country’s healthcare system. Whatever the reason, here’s the truth:
You can still become a licensed RN.
Yes—even after 5+ years.
Yes—even if you failed once.
Yes—even if your original state says “no.”
The journey won’t be effortless. But it’s possible. And for many international medical graduates (IMGs), nurses with gaps, or second-chance test takers, the NCLEX is still within reach.
Let’s break down what matters, what to watch out for, and how to win.
Do States Have a Time Limit After Graduation?
Short answer? Some do. Some don’t.
For example:
| State | Time Limit to Take NCLEX After Graduation |
| Texas | 4 years |
| California | No time limit |
| Illinois | No time limit |
| New Jersey | 2–5 years (depends on case) |
| New York | Case-by-case, contact BON |
Why this matters:
If your original state (like Texas) won’t let you apply anymore, don’t panic. You can still apply through a different state’s Board of Nursing (BON) that allows late or repeat applicants.
Pro Tip: Once you’re approved by that BON, you can take the NCLEX at any Pearson Vue testing site—even in your home state.
What If I’m an International Nurse?
If you earned your nursing degree outside of the U.S., you’ll also need:
- Credential evaluation (e.g., CGFNS or CES)
- English language proficiency (if required by BON)
- Authorization to Test (ATT) from a U.S. BON
Some states, like California, are notoriously tough for international-trained nurses due to curriculum requirements. Others, like Illinois, are more flexible and IMG-friendly.
Don’t guess—call or email the BON directly. It could save you months of wasted paperwork.
Will a Long Gap Hurt My Job Prospects?
Surprisingly, no. Not always.
One Reddit user passed the NCLEX after over a decade, applied for jobs, and got hired in 2 weeks. Hospitals—especially post-pandemic—still desperately need licensed RNs.
“Don’t let anyone discourage you. It’s not going to be super easy, but it will get easier.” — NCLEX passer, 10 years post-grad
The key is: license first, then worry about the job hunt. Once you’re RN-certified, your chances open wide again.
What If My State Says No?
You have options. Here’s what to do:
Step 1: Choose a More Flexible State BON
Look for states that:
- Don’t have time limits
- Allow multiple or unlimited attempts
- Are IMG-friendly
Top picks:
- California (no time limit, but strict for IMGs)
- Illinois (no time limit, IMG-friendly, unlimited attempts)
- New York (depends, but often flexible)
- New Mexico, Michigan, and Minnesota (check for recent policy updates)
Step 2: Apply for Authorization to Test (ATT)
Once approved, you’ll receive the go-ahead to schedule your NCLEX. You can take it at any testing center, even if it’s outside the state you applied in.
Step 3: Pass the NCLEX
Easier said than done, but with a focused plan, many late test-takers succeed—even if they’ve forgotten “everything.”
Your Comeback Starts Now
If you’re sitting there thinking:
“It’s been too long. I’ve forgotten everything. I probably can’t pass.”
Let us stop you right there. You can. People do. Every single year, hundreds of IMGs and U.S. grads alike restart their nursing careers after years away—and crush the NCLEX.
Your education isn’t expired. Your dream isn’t dead.
It’s just… delayed.
Ready to Start Studying Again?
At MedCognito, we built our NCLEX-RN Prep Course specifically for international nurses, second-chance test takers, and those with long gaps in practice.
Check it out here: https://medcognito.com/nclex-rn-prep-course
The NCLEX doesn’t care if you graduated five years ago—or fifteen.
It only cares if you’re ready today.
Let today be Day One.
