“The journey of a thousand miles begins with CGFNS certification.” — Nigerian nurse saying
CGFNS is the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools – a critical credential evaluation service Nigerian nurses need for US nursing licensure. It verifies your education, validates your license, and confirms your readiness to practice in America through document evaluation and possibly an exam. Most Nigerian nurses spend 4-6 months completing CGFNS requirements at a cost of $1,400-$1,800 before taking NCLEX.
We breaks down everything you need about CGFNS – requirements, costs, timelines, state exceptions, and step-by-step processes to turn your Nigerian nursing qualification into a US nursing career.
What is CGFNS and Why It Matters
Understanding CGFNS at a Glance
The Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) serves as the gatekeeper for international nurses seeking to practice in the United States. For Nigerian nurses, it’s not just another certification – it’s your first major milestone on the path to working in America.
CGFNS performs three critical functions:
- Education Verification – Confirms your Nigerian nursing qualifications meet US standards
- License Validation – Verifies your Nigerian nursing license is genuine and in good standing
- Practice Readiness – Assesses your nursing knowledge through credential evaluation and possibly an exam
Expert Tip: Start your CGFNS journey at least 1 year before your planned move to America. Document verification from Nigerian institutions can take longer than expected!
Why CGFNS Matters for Nigerian Nurses
For Nigerians eyeing US nursing opportunities, CGFNS certification opens doors that would otherwise remain closed:
- Visa Eligibility – Required for occupational visas (VisaScreen)
- State Licensure – Many states require it before NCLEX
- Credibility Boost – Shows employers your qualifications are legitimate
- Career Advancement – Opens paths to higher salaries and better conditions
Real Talk: The average US nurse makes ~$77,600 (~₦116 million) annually – about 15x the typical Nigerian nurse salary. CGFNS is your first step toward this life-changing income difference.
Step-by-Step CGFNS Process for Nigerian Nurses
The road from Nigerian nursing to American practice has clear milestones. Here are the steps to take:
- Create CGFNS Online Account
- Register at www.cgfns.org
- Complete your profile with accurate details
- Select the appropriate service (Certification or VisaScreen)
- Gather & Submit Required Documents
- Nursing diploma and transcripts
- Current Nigerian nursing license
- Proof of identity (passport)
- English proficiency test results
- Document Verification Period
- CGFNS contacts your Nigerian institutions
- Average waiting time: 3-4 months
- Track status through your online account
- CGFNS Qualifying Exam (if required by your target state)
- Computer-based test of nursing knowledge
- Available in Lagos and other Nigerian cities
- Passing score determined by CGFNS
- Receive CGFNS Certificate
- Digital and hard copy certificates issued
- Valid for specific time period (check dates carefully)
- Apply for State Nursing License & NCLEX
- Use CGFNS certificate for state board applications
- Schedule your NCLEX exam
Community Insight: “The document verification took me 5 months because my university was slow to respond. Start this process EARLY!” — Chioma N., Now working in Texas
CGFNS Requirements & Documentation
Essential Documents Checklist
Every document matters in the CGFNS process. Missing or incorrect paperwork can delay your application by months. Use this checklist to stay organized:
| Document | Details | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Nursing Degree/Diploma | Original or notarized copy | Must be from accredited Nigerian nursing school |
| Official Transcripts | Sealed and stamped | Send request forms to your nursing school early |
| Current Nursing License | Valid and unrestricted | From Nursing & Midwifery Council of Nigeria |
| Proof of Identity | International passport | Must be valid for at least 1 year |
| English Proficiency | IELTS or TOEFL scores | IELTS Academic preferred (see score requirements below) |
| Work Experience | Employment verification | Letters from all nursing employers |
CGFNS Document Submission Guidelines
Nigerian nurses often face unique challenges with document submission. Follow these guidelines to avoid common pitfalls:
- Use official channels only – Documents must come directly from institutions, not from you
- Request multiple copies – Nigerian postal systems can be unreliable
- Follow up regularly – Check with your schools and CGFNS about document status
- Keep digital copies – Scan everything before sending
- Notarize when required – Use only recognized notary services
Pro Tip: Create a document tracking spreadsheet with submission dates, follow-up calls, and status updates. Nigerian institutions sometimes need gentle but persistent reminders!
CGFNS Qualifying Exam: What to Expect
Exam Format and Content
The CGFNS Qualifying Exam tests your nursing knowledge against US standards. It’s computer-based and consists of two parts:
Part 1: Nursing Practice (150 questions, 2.5 hours)
- Adult health nursing
- Maternal-infant nursing
- Surgical nursing
- Medical nursing
Part 2: Specialized Areas (110 questions, 2 hours)
- Pediatric nursing
- Mental health nursing
- Community health nursing
Testing Locations in Nigeria:
- Lagos (Primary center)
- Abuja
- Port Harcourt
- Enugu
Preparation Strategies
Nigerian nursing education has different emphases than US programs. Focus your study on these areas:
- US Nursing Protocols – American nursing practices may differ from Nigerian standards
- Critical Thinking Questions – The exam tests judgment more than memorization
- Medication Calculations – Practice using metric conversions and drug calculations
- Documentation Standards – US charting systems and legal requirements
Study Resources:
- CGFNS Study Guide (official resource)
- Nursing review books with NCLEX focus
- Online practice tests
- Study groups with other Nigerian nurses
Success Insight: “I failed my first attempt because I underestimated the differences between Nigerian and US nursing practices. On my second try, I focused on US nursing protocols and passed easily.” — Adebayo M., Now in Chicago
CGFNS Processing Times & Fees (2025 Update)
Timeline Expectations
One of the most common questions we receive at NurseHub.ng is “How long will CGFNS take?” While timelines vary, here’s what Nigerian nurses typically experience:
Processing Timeline Chart
| Phase | Average Time | Factors Affecting Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Document Collection | 4-6 weeks | Nigerian institution response time |
| Credential Review | 4-8 weeks | Application completeness |
| Qualifying Exam | 2-3 weeks | Test center availability |
| Certificate Issuance | 2-3 weeks | Payment verification |
| Total Process | 12-20 weeks | Can be longer during peak periods |
Current Fee Structure (2025)
Plan your finances carefully – CGFNS certification requires significant investment. Current fees include:
| Service | Fee (USD) | Fee (NGN)* | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certification Program | $500 | ₦750,000 | Basic credential evaluation |
| VisaScreen | $540 | ₦810,000 | Required for work visas |
| Qualifying Exam | $445 | ₦667,500 | If required by your state |
| Document Verification | Varies | Varies | Some Nigerian institutions charge fees |
| Shipping/Handling | $25-50 | ₦37,500-75,000 | For certificate delivery |
| Total (Typical) | $1,485-1,935 | ₦2,227,500-2,902,500 | Excludes English tests |
*NGN conversion approximate based on May 2025 exchange rates
Money-Saving Tips:
- Apply for the Certification Program and VisaScreen together for reduced fees
- Ask about installment payment options
- Check with Nigerian nursing associations for scholarship opportunities
States That Don’t Require CGFNS for NCLEX
Direct Path States vs. CGFNS States
Good news for Nigerian nurses! CGFNS certification isn’t a must-have in all US states. Some actually let you apply straight for the NCLEX, which could save you both time and money. While many places accept evaluations from services like the Educational Records Evaluation Service (ERES) instead of CGFNS Registered Nursing, these are the specific states that insist on CGFNS certification or proof you’ve passed their Qualifying Exam before you can take the NCLEX:
States Requiring CGFNS Certification/Qualifying Exam
- Connecticut, Indiana, Michigan, Rhode Island, Utah
- Wisconsin (CGFNS Qualifying Exam specifically)
These six jurisdictions insist that internationally educated nurses complete the CGFNS Qualifying Exam® (or CP) before issuing the Authorization to Test for the NCLEX.
Other States (No CGFNS‑Exam Mandate)
The remaining 44 states do not require the CGFNS Qualifying Exam® or CP certificate prior to NCLEX authorization. Instead, they accept a credentials evaluation report (CES or similar) from CGFNS or other approved agencies CGFNS International, Inc.CGFNS International, Inc.. According to state regulations and summaries, these include:
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Vermont
Important Caveat: State requirements change frequently! Always verify current requirements directly with your target state’s Board of Nursing before making decisions.
Strategic State Selection
Choosing your first US state strategically can save thousands of dollars and months of waiting. Consider these factors:
- CGFNS Requirements – Target states without CGFNS requirements initially
- Job Market – Research nursing demand and salary levels
- Cost of Living – Compare housing and living expenses
- Nigerian Community – Having compatriots nearby helps with transition
- License Mobility – Some states offer easier transfers to other states later
Nurse Testimony: “I started in Texas because they didn’t require CGFNS. After two years, I transferred my license to New York, where salaries are higher. This strategy saved me over $1,000 and 6 months of waiting time.” — Elizabeth O., BSN, RN
VisaScreen & IELTS Requirements
Understanding VisaScreen
While CGFNS certification focuses on educational credentials, VisaScreen is about immigration eligibility. All Nigerian nurses seeking work visas need it.
VisaScreen Confirms:
- Your education meets US standards
- You’ve passed an approved English proficiency test
- Your license is valid and unencumbered
- Your nursing knowledge meets US practice standards
Key Differences from Basic CGFNS:
- Required specifically for visa purposes
- More comprehensive evaluation
- Valid for 5 years (vs. varying CGFNS certificate validity)
English Proficiency Requirements
English tests are critical for both CGFNS certification and VisaScreen. Nigerian nurses typically take IELTS Academic:
IELTS Score Requirements
| Purpose | Overall Score | Speaking | Listening | Reading | Writing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VisaScreen | 6.5 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| Most State Boards | 6.5-7.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| Some States (e.g., Washington) | 7.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 |
TOEFL iBT Alternative
- Minimum Total: 83
- Speaking: 26
- Listening: 22
- Reading: 21
- Writing: 24
IELTS Preparation Resources:
- British Council Nigeria centers
- Online practice tests
- Speaking partners (join our NurseHub.ng community)
- Academic writing courses
Pro Tip: Test anxiety affects many Nigerian nurses taking IELTS. Our data shows taking a quality prep course improves scores by an average of 0.5-1.0 bands!
After CGFNS: Next Steps to US Nursing
The Road Ahead: NCLEX and Licensing
CGFNS certification is just the beginning. Your journey continues with:
- NCLEX-RN Examination
- Computer adaptive test required in all states
- Available at testing centers in Nigeria (Lagos, Abuja)
- Different preparation needed than CGFNS exam
- Average pass rate for Nigerian nurses: ~45% first attempt
- State Licensing Application
- Each state has unique requirements
- Background checks and fingerprinting
- License processing times: 2-12 weeks
- Temporary permits available in some states
- Immigration Process
- VisaScreen certificate validity
- Employer sponsorship requirements
- Family considerations
- Legal representation options
- Job Search and Placement
- Direct hospital applications
- Recruitment agencies specializing in Nigerian nurses
- Interview preparation for US healthcare system
- Salary negotiation and contract review
Success Factors for Nigerian Nurses
Our research with successful Nigerian nurses in the US identified these key success factors:
- Thorough Preparation – Go beyond minimum requirements
- Patience & Persistence – The process has inevitable delays
- Financial Planning – Budget for all expenses, including living costs during transitions
- Community Connections – Connect with other Nigerian nurses who’ve made the journey
- Continuous Learning – US nursing practices may differ substantially
Inspiration: “When I left Lagos, I had nothing but my nursing skills and determination. Five years later, I’m a Nurse Manager in Houston earning more in a month than I made in a year in Nigeria. The CGFNS process was challenging, but absolutely worth it.” — Oluwaseun A., MSN, RN
Frequently Asked Questions
General CGFNS Questions
What is CGFNS used for? CGFNS evaluates if your Nigerian nursing education and license meet US standards. It’s often required before taking NCLEX and applying for US nursing licenses.
Is there an age limit for nurses moving to the US? No, there’s no specific age limit. However, visa eligibility and employment opportunities may have practical considerations for older nurses.
Is CGFNS required for all US states? No, many states don’t require CGFNS certification. However, all internationally educated nurses seeking work visas need the VisaScreen certificate, which CGFNS issues.
Can I take CGFNS exam in Nigeria? Yes, the CGFNS Qualifying Exam is available at testing centers in Lagos, Abuja, and other major Nigerian cities.
Process & Timeline Questions
How long does CGFNS processing take from Nigeria? Typically 3-5 months total, with document verification from Nigerian institutions often being the longest part of the process.
What if my Nigerian nursing school delays sending documents? This is common. Follow up regularly with your institution. CGFNS allows you to track missing documents in your online portal.
How long is CGFNS certificate valid? Validity varies by state and purpose. Generally, CGFNS certificates are valid for 2 years, while VisaScreen is valid for 5 years.
Financial & Practical Questions
How much does the entire US nursing process cost for Nigerian nurses? From CGFNS through NCLEX and licensing, expect to spend $2,500-3,500 (₦3.75-5.25 million), excluding travel and relocation costs.
Can my family come with me to the US? Yes, most nursing visas allow for spouse and dependent children to accompany you or join later through family visa categories.
What are typical US nurse salaries compared to Nigeria? US nurses earn $60,000-120,000 annually (~₦90-180 million), compared to Nigerian salaries of ₦600,000-1,200,000 annually.
[FREE DOWNLOAD] CGFNS Checklist for Nigerian Nurses
Save time and avoid costly mistakes with our comprehensive CGFNS preparation checklist!
This downloadable resource includes:
- Document preparation timeline
- Institution contact templates
- Expense tracker
- Application status monitoring tool
- Expert tips from Nigerian nurses who completed the process