NCLEX for Nigerian Nurses: Your Complete FAQ Guide
He answered top NCLEX question with ease. James Afolabi, With over 35 years of experience in international nurse recruitment and licensure consulting, has helped thousands of African nurses—especially from Nigeria—transition into successful healthcare careers abroad. As a former nurse himself and now a senior advisor with a leading global recruitment agency, James has firsthand knowledge of what it takes to navigate exams like the NCLEX, from registration to relocation.
Known for his practical insights and deep understanding of both the U.S. and Canadian licensure systems, James is widely regarded as a go-to expert for Nigerian nurses looking to take the NCLEX locally. If you’re considering writing the NCLEX from Nigeria, there’s no one better to walk you through what to expect and how to succeed.
Considering a nursing career abroad? The NCLEX exam opens doors to practice in the US and Canada—right from Nigeria. Got questions? We’ve gathered everything you need to know about taking this crucial exam while still in Nigeria.
Quick Answer: Yes, you can write the NCLEX in Nigeria at Pearson VUE centres in Lagos and Abuja. The exam costs about ₦180,000+ (base fee $200 USD + $150 international fee), uses computer adaptive testing, and requires preparation of 3-6 months for optimal results.
Understanding NCLEX Basics
What is the NCLEX exam?
The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) tests whether you’re ready to practice safely as an entry-level nurse in the US or Canada. It’s not just a standard test—it’s a computer-adaptive assessment that adjusts question difficulty based on your performance. Two versions exist: NCLEX-RN for Registered Nurses and NCLEX-PN for Practical Nurses.
Who conducts the NCLEX?
The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) develops the exam, while Pearson VUE handles administration worldwide, including test centres in Nigeria.
Who can take the NCLEX?
Any nurse with:
- Accredited nursing qualifications (BSN, ADN, or equivalent)
- Eligibility approval from a US or Canadian nursing regulatory body
- Valid ATT (Authorization to Test) letter
The beauty? Nigerian-trained nurses qualify—provided your credentials meet the requirements of your target state board.
NCLEX in Nigeria: Logistics & Costs
Can I write the NCLEX in Nigeria?
Absolutely. Nigeria hosts official Pearson VUE testing centre where you can sit for the NCLEX. No need to travel abroad just for the exam.
Where are NCLEX testing centres in Nigeria?
Two cities currently offer NCLEX testing:
- Lagos: Pearson Professional Centers
How much does it cost to take NCLEX in Nigeria?
The total costs include:
- NCLEX Registration Fee: $200 USD
- International Testing Fee: $150 USD
- Total: Approximately ₦180,000+ (varies with exchange rates)
Additional expenses to consider:
- State Board Application: $75-$200 (varies by state)
- Credential Evaluation (if required): $200-$500
- Study Materials: ₦50,000-₦200,000
How do I register for NCLEX in Nigeria?
Follow these steps:
- Choose and apply to a US state nursing board (NY, IL, and TX are popular choices)
- Complete credential verification through CGFNS or similar organizations
- Receive Authorization to Test (ATT)
- Register with Pearson VUE online
- Schedule your exam at your preferred Nigerian test centre
- Bring your valid international passport and ATT on exam day
NCLEX Exam Format & Scoring
How many questions are on the NCLEX?
The NGN (Next Generation NCLEX) includes:
- Minimum: 85 questions (including 15 unscored pre-test items)
- Maximum: 150 questions
- Time limit: 5 hours
What types of questions appear on the NCLEX?
Beyond standard multiple-choice, expect:
- Select-All-That-Apply (SATA)
- Fill-in-the-blank calculations
- Drag-and-drop prioritization
- Hot spot identification
- Case studies with multiple interconnected questions
- Charts and exhibits requiring interpretation
How is the NCLEX scored?
The NCLEX uses Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT) with pass/fail results based on:
- Question difficulty level (measured in logits)
- Consistency of your performance above the passing standard
- 95% statistical confidence in your competency level
Note: There’s no percentage score—your exam stops when the system determines with 95% confidence whether you’ve passed or failed.
What happens if I get all 150 questions?
Reaching the maximum question count means the computer couldn’t determine with 95% certainty whether you passed or failed with fewer questions. You can still pass—your overall performance across all questions determines the result.
NCLEX Preparation for Nigerian Nurses
How long should I study for the NCLEX?
Most Nigerian nurses need 3-6 months of dedicated preparation. If you’re working full-time, consider a 6-month study plan with daily practice.
Which NCLEX review resources work best for Nigerians?
Top resources include:
| Resource | Strengths | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|---|
| UWorld | Best explanations, realistic questions | $139-$399 |
| Archer Review | Budget-friendly, similar to actual NCLEX | $25-$99 |
| Kaplan | Strong on strategies, comprehensive content | $299-$499 |
| Saunders Book | Detailed content review | ₦15,000-₦30,000 |
What’s the hardest part of NCLEX for Nigerian nurses?
Nigerian nurses typically struggle with:
- Prioritization and delegation (different healthcare systems)
- Pharmacology (different drug names and protocols)
- Mental health nursing (cultural context differences)
- Select-All-That-Apply questions (higher difficulty level)
How can I pass NCLEX the first time?
Follow these proven strategies:
- Complete at least 2,000 practice questions
- Aim for 60%+ on practice tests
- Master test-taking strategies (elimination, prioritization)
- Focus on understanding rationales, not just memorizing
- Take 2-3 full-length practice exams under timed conditions
- Join study groups with other Nigerian nurses preparing for NCLEX
- Rest properly before the exam day
Results & Next Steps
When do I get my NCLEX results?
- Quick Results (unofficial): Available within 48 hours for a $7.95 fee
- Official Results: Typically 2-6 weeks via your nursing board
Are NCLEX quick results accurate?
Yes, in about 99% of cases. While unofficial, quick results rarely differ from official results.
What if I fail the NCLEX?
No worries—you can retake it after 45 days. Use this time to:
- Analyze your performance areas
- Focus on content weaknesses
- Try different study resources
- Consider a structured review course
Most Nigerian nurses pass within 1-3 attempts.
Career Pathways After NCLEX
Can I go to the USA without passing NCLEX?
For nursing practice, no. The NCLEX is mandatory for licensure in all US states. However, other visa pathways exist (student, diversity lottery), but they won’t allow you to work as a nurse without passing NCLEX.
Which US states are best for Nigerian nurses?
Consider these states:
- New York: Large Nigerian community, many hospitals
- Texas: Lower cost of living, good salaries, straightforward licensure
- Illinois: Expedited licensure for international nurses
- Georgia: Growing demand for nurses, Nigerian community
What’s the average salary for Nigerian nurses who pass NCLEX?
Entry-level RNs in the US earn $60,000-$80,000 annually (₦48-64 million at current rates). With experience, specialization, and overtime, this can increase to $100,000+ per year.
Differences: Nigerian Nursing vs US/Canada
What exam do nurses take in Nigeria vs NCLEX?
- Nigeria: Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) licensing exams
- US/Canada: NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN
Key differences:
- NMCN: Paper-based or limited CBT, fixed questions
- NCLEX: Fully adaptive, varying difficulty, focus on clinical judgment
Is NCLEX harder than Nigerian nursing exams?
Most Nigerian nurses find NCLEX more challenging because:
- It tests application rather than recall
- Questions require clinical judgment in unfamiliar healthcare systems
- The computer-adaptive format increases pressure
- Different nursing priorities and terminologies
Common Misconceptions
Can I take NCLEX without any preparation?
No. Even experienced Nigerian nurses need proper preparation. The exam tests nursing judgment within the American healthcare context, which differs significantly from Nigerian practice.
Is NCLEX the same for US and Canadian licensure?
Yes, mostly. The NCLEX-RN exam itself is identical for both countries. However:
- Canadian provinces may require additional jurisprudence exams
- Language requirements might differ (especially for Quebec)
- Application processes vary by province/territory
Will memorizing questions guarantee a pass?
Definitely not. The NCLEX tests critical thinking, not memorization. While practice questions help, understanding underlying concepts is crucial for success.
Beyond the Exam: Next Steps
After passing the NCLEX, Nigerian nurses must:
- Complete state licensure requirements
- Apply for VisaScreen Certificate
- Find US employer sponsorship
- Apply for appropriate work visa
- Complete CGFNS certification (if not done earlier)
The journey doesn’t end with NCLEX—it’s just the beginning of your international nursing career.