For Nigerian nurses eyeing practice abroad, the Authorization to Test (ATT) stands as your official ticket to taking the NCLEX exam. No be small tin! The process is overwhelming—delays, unexpected costs, and visa palava dey common. Here we break the ATT process down step-by-step, be highlighting unique wahala that Nigerian nurses face, and offers expert tips to help you get your ATT quickly and stress-free. This guide also give you tips on how to avoid delays in your NCLEX ATT process
How to Obtain Your ATT for NCLEX in Nigeria
The Authorization to Test (ATT) is an essential document that allows you schedule and take your NCLEX exam. The path to obtain it involves several carefully orchestrated steps. The process no be beans, but with proper planning, and following this guide you can streamline it.
Here’s what you need to know:
- ATT Valid Period: Your ATT remains valid for roughly 90 days after issue
- Processing Time: Expect 4-12 weeks from application to receiving your ATT email
- Application Channel: You must apply through your state’s Nursing Regulatory Body (NRB)
Pro Tip: Start your application process at least 3-4 months before your target exam date to accommodate potential delays common in Nigeria.
Step-by-Step ATT Application Process
- Complete Credential Evaluation
- Apply through CGFNS or ERES (Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools)
- Cost: Approximately $350
- Timeline: 6-8 weeks average processing time
- Required: Nursing degree, transcripts, verification of license
- Obtain License Validation from NMCN
- Visit the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria office in Abuja or Lagos
- Cost: Around ₦54,000
- Documents needed: Original nursing license, passport photos, proof of identity
- Submit Professional Transcripts
- Request directly from your nursing school
- Timeline: Can take 2-4 weeks depending on your institution
- Ensure all details match your other application documents
- Complete Background Check
- Required by most State Boards of Nursing
- Timeline: 2-3 weeks
- NCLEX Registration
- Register through the NCSBN website
- Fee: $200
- Complete nursing jurisprudence exam if required by your target state
- Pay International Testing Fee
- Most Nigerian nurses test outside Nigeria
- Additional fee: $150
- Common test centers: Philippines, UK, UAE
- Receive Your ATT
- Typically arrives within 1 week after NCLEX registration approval
- Validity: 90 days from issue date
- Contains your candidate ID and authorization details
- Schedule Your Exam
- Book through Pearson VUE website or call center
- Select test center and available date within your ATT validity period
Eligibility Criteria & Required Documents
No fit skip this part! Meeting the eligibility requirements and gathering proper documentation forms the foundation of a successful ATT application. Nigerian nurses face unique challenges here, especially with document authentication.
Basic Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for ATT as a Nigerian-trained nurse, you must:
- Hold a B.Sc. Nursing or post-basic qualification recognized by NMCN
- Have an active nursing license in Nigeria
- Complete a nursing education program equivalent to US standards
- Demonstrate English language proficiency (if required)
- Have no criminal record that would prevent licensure
Essential Documentation Checklist
| Document | Source | Special Notes for Nigerian Nurses |
|---|---|---|
| Nursing Degree Certificate | Your university | Must be apostilled in Nigeria |
| Academic Transcripts | Your nursing school | Sealed and stamped by registrar |
| NMCN License Verification | NMCN offices | Often requires in-person visit |
| Passport & Photos | – | Must meet international standards |
| Proof of English Proficiency | IELTS/TOEFL | May be waived if education was in English |
| Criminal Background Check | Nigeria Police Force | International verification may apply |
Document Authentication Tips
Nigerian nurses often struggle with document authentication. Here’s how to navigate this:
- Apostille Services: Visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja or Lagos for document apostille
- Expedited Services: Several agencies in Lagos and Abuja offer faster apostille services (2-3 days vs. 2 weeks)
- Document Consistency: Ensure your name appears EXACTLY the same on ALL documents
- Sealed Transcripts: Request multiple sealed copies in case of loss during international shipping
Scheduling Your Exam & Validity Period
After receiving your ATT, quick action dey necessary. The clock don start ticking on your 90-day validity period, and for Nigerian nurses, booking early na crucial to secure your preferred test location and date.
Understanding ATT Validity
Your ATT validity varies slightly based on the State Board of Nursing you applied to:
- Standard Validity: 90 days for most states
- Extended Validity: Some states offer up to 180 days
- No Extensions: Once expired, you must reapply and pay all fees again
Test Center Options for Nigerian Nurses
Limited test centers in Nigeria make planning essential:
- In-Country Options: Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt (very limited seats)
- Popular Alternatives: Dubai, Philippines, UK (easier visa process)
- Booking Timeline: Centers often book 2-3 months in advance
- Seat Scarcity: Nigerian centers fill quickly, especially around holidays
Strategic Scheduling Tips
- Book Immediately: Schedule your exam within 24-48 hours of receiving your ATT
- Consider Off-Peak Times: Mid-week and early morning slots typically have better availability
- Visa Planning: If testing internationally, apply for your visa immediately after receiving your ATT
- Buffer Time: Allow at least 2-3 weeks before your ATT expires in case you need to reschedule
Preparing for the NCLEX—Study Tips & Resources
The NCLEX has evolved to include new question types testing clinical judgment:
- Case Studies: Extended clinical scenarios requiring analysis
- Bow-Tie: Questions asking you to identify causes and consequences
- Matrix: Multi-part questions with several answer components
- Cloze: Fill-in-the-blank style responses
Passing the NCLEX requires strategic preparation. Nigerian nursing education offers solid clinical foundations, here is a post where I wrote about the NCLEX-RN exam format and question styles which may differ from what you’re used to.
Fees, Payments & Nigeria-Specific Considerations
Money mata no be small thing for ATT process. Nigerian nurses face unique financial challenges, from currency fluctuations to international payment barriers.
Complete Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Approximate Cost (2025) | Notes for Nigerian Nurses |
|---|---|---|
| Credential Evaluation | $350 (₦420,000) | CGFNS or ERES fees |
| NMCN Verification | ₦54,000 | May require travel to Abuja/Lagos |
| NCLEX Registration | $200 (₦240,000) | Paid to Pearson VUE |
| International Test Fee | $150 (₦180,000) | If testing outside Nigeria |
| Visa Fees (if applicable) | $160-220 (₦192,000-264,000) | For testing in Dubai, UK, etc. |
| Apostille Services | ₦15,000-25,000 per document | Ministry of Foreign Affairs |
| Travel & Accommodation | ₦300,000-800,000 | Varies by test location |
| TOTAL ESTIMATE | ₦1.2-2 million | Excludes study materials |
Payment Challenges & Solutions
Nigerian nurses often struggle with international payments due to card restrictions and forex limits:
- Domiciliary Accounts: Open a dollar account with a Nigerian bank for easier payments
- International Payment Cards: Virtual dollar cards like Chipper Cash or Grey work for most payments
- Exchange Rate Buffer: Budget an extra 10% for exchange rate fluctuations
- Payment Documentation: Keep all payment receipts for possible verification
Cost-Saving Strategies
- Group Travel: Connect with other nurses traveling to the same test center to share accommodation
- Early Planning: Avoid rush fees and expedited processing charges
- Scholarship Programs: Some hospitals offer sponsorship for promising nurses
- Payment Plans: Some credential evaluation agencies offer installment options
After the Exam—What to Expect & Next Steps
The journey no dey end after your exam. Understanding the post-NCLEX process helps manage expectations and plan your next steps.
Results Timeline
- Quick Results Service: Available in 48 hours (additional $7.95 fee)
- Official Results: Typically within 6 weeks for Nigerian nurses
- NMCN Verification: Can take additional 2-4 weeks for international processing
If You Pass
Congratulations! Here’s what comes next:
- License Application: Apply to your chosen State Board of Nursing
- Credential Verification: Complete any additional verification required
- Visa Process: Begin work visa application (if applicable)
- Job Search: Connect with hospitals that sponsor international nurses
If You Need to Retake
Don’t lose hope! Many successful nurses didn’t pass on their first attempt:
- Waiting Period: Typically 45 days before you can retake the exam
- New ATT: You’ll need to request a new ATT and pay registration fees again
- Focused Study: Use your results to target weak areas
- Success Stories: Many Nigerian nurses pass on their second attempt with targeted preparation
Common Challenges for Nigerian Nurses & How to Overcome Them
Nigerian nurses face unique obstacles in the ATT process. Understanding these challenges—and proven solutions—can save you time, money, and stress.
Documentation Challenges
- Challenge: Inconsistent name formats across documents
- Solution: Obtain affidavits of identity for minor variations; consider legal name standardization
- Challenge: Delayed transcript processing from Nigerian universities
- Solution: Begin requests early; provide self-addressed courier envelopes; follow up weekly
Payment & Financial Obstacles
- Challenge: International payment rejections
- Solution: Use specialized fintech solutions like Wise or PayPal with VPN
- Challenge: Unexpected currency devaluation affecting budgets
- Solution: Purchase dollars gradually over time; consider dollar-denominated investments
Travel & Visa Issues
- Challenge: NCLEX testing visa denials
- Solution: Apply with comprehensive documentation; consider alternative testing locations with easier visa processes (UAE vs. US)
- Challenge: Limited test center availability in Nigeria
- Solution: Book 3-4 months in advance; consider midnight bookings when slots refresh
Success Story: Nurse Chioma’s Journey
“After facing repeated visa denials for US testing, I pivoted to Dubai. Using a group WhatsApp for Nigerian nurses testing in UAE, I found affordable shared accommodation and passed my NCLEX on the first attempt. The key was adaptability and connecting with others facing similar challenges.” – Chioma N., now working in Texas
FAQs About ATT for Nigerian Nurses
How long does it take to get ATT after applying? For Nigerian nurses, expect 4-12 weeks after completing your NCLEX registration. Credential evaluation through CGFNS typically takes 6-8 weeks, followed by 1-2 weeks for ATT processing once all documentation is verified.
Can I extend my ATT if it’s about to expire? No, ATT extensions aren’t available. If your ATT expires, you must restart the application process and pay all fees again. Plan your exam scheduling carefully within your 90-day window.
What happens if my documents are delayed in Nigeria? Contact your regulatory body immediately. For NMCN delays, consider in-person follow-up if possible. Some credential evaluation agencies offer expedited processing for additional fees if you’re approaching deadlines.
Is there any financial aid available for Nigerian nurses? Some international healthcare staffing agencies offer sponsorship programs covering NCLEX costs in exchange for future employment contracts. Additionally, organizations like the Nigerian Nurses Association sometimes provide scholarships for qualified applicants.
Which test centers are recommended for Nigerian nurses? Dubai and Philippines are popular choices due to relatively straightforward visa processes and regular flight connections from Nigeria. UAE centers typically have more available testing slots than Nigerian locations.
Can I change my test center after receiving my ATT? Yes, you can modify your test center through your Pearson VUE account as long as seats are available at the new location and you’re still within your ATT validity period. No additional fees apply for changing test centers.
How many times can I retake the NCLEX if I don’t pass? Most states allow eight attempts total, with a mandatory 45-day waiting period between exams. Each attempt requires a new ATT and registration fee.
Your Next Steps Towards NCLEX Success
Your nursing journey beyond Nigeria starts with securing your ATT. Don’t let the process intimidate you—thousands of Nigerian nurses have successfully navigated these waters and now thrive internationally.
Take Action Today
- Begin Your Documentation: Start gathering and authenticating your nursing credentials
- Join Our Community: Connect with fellow Nigerian nurses through our WhatsApp support group
- Download Resources: Get our free ATT Checklist PDF tailored for Nigerian nurses
- Start Your Timeline: Create your personalized application timeline using our calculator
The world needs skilled Nigerian nurses. Your compassion, resilience, and clinical excellence are in demand globally. Take that first step today—your international nursing career awaits.
Last updated: May 2025 | This guide incorporates the latest ATT requirements and processes for Nigerian nurses. For personalized guidance, connect with our team at NurseHub.ng.
Getting your Authorization to Test (ATT) for the NCLEX can seem overwhelming at first, but don’t worry – we’ll break down this essential process for Nigerian nurses step by step.
To navigate common application challenges, you’ll need to submit your details to the state board of nursing for verification, which typically takes 3-4 weeks. Successful completion requires graduation from nursing school before starting the ATT process.
While working with Pearson VUE, you’ll discover helpful submission tips: guarantee accurate document preparation, maintain proper payment records, and keep communication channels open.
A credential evaluation service like CGFNS, ERES, or Josef Silny must verify your Nigerian nursing qualifications.
Remember to factor in additional requirements like background checks, which vary by state.
Stay proactive in tracking your application’s progress – it’s your gateway to success!
Essential Documents and Requirements for ATT Application
Before you begin your ATT application journey, you’ll need to gather several essential documents that serve as the foundation of your NCLEX registration process.
Your document checklist should include your nursing diploma, CES report from approved evaluators, and English proficiency test scores if required.
Don’t forget to prepare for state-specific requirements like jurisprudence exams and background checks.
To avoid delays in your application timeline, verify all your documents match exactly as they appear on your identification.
You’ll also need to register with Pearson VUE and maintain awareness of your ATT’s validity period, typically 90 days.
The initial application submission requires you to contact your chosen State Board of Nursing directly for specific requirements.
Making multiple copies of all required documents will help streamline the submission process and provide backups if needed.
Common ATT Delays Affecting Nigerian Applicants
While pursuing your ATT as a Nigerian nurse, you’ll likely encounter several common delays that can impact your timeline. Understanding these challenges helps you navigate them proactively. From application errors to verification challenges, each step requires careful attention to detail. Maintaining state licensure requirements is crucial for staying employable during extended processing periods.
| Common Delays | How to Address Them |
|---|---|
| Incomplete Documents | Double-check requirements |
| Verification Issues | Follow up with your NRB |
| Technical Glitches | Keep backup contact info |
| Payment Problems | Maintain proof of payment |
| Email Communication | Monitor spam folder daily |
Credential Evaluation and Verification Steps
When you’re ready to begin your credential evaluation process, you’ll need to gather your professional transcripts and guarantee they’re sent directly from your nursing school to CGFNS.
You’ll want to register at www.cgfns.org to get your CGFNS number and initiate your Credential Evaluation Service (CES) application, which costs $350.
Remember that accuracy is vital – every detail on your application needs to match your official documents perfectly, as even small discrepancies can lead to processing delays.
Like USCIS applications, your credential evaluation follows a priority date system that determines processing order and timeline.
CES Preparation Requirements
Since getting your credentials evaluated is a crucial first step toward your NCLEX journey, it’s important to understand the CES preparation requirements thoroughly.
As a dedicated healthcare professional, you’ll want to guarantee your CES document preparation is meticulous and CES application accuracy is spot-on.
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare for your CES application:
- Valid nursing license verification from NMCN (N54,000-N80,000)
- Professional transcript from your nursing school
- Secondary school diploma or examination certificate
- Authorization to Release Information form
Agency Document Submission Steps
The path to obtaining your NCLEX ATT involves careful document submission and verification through authorized agencies.
You’ll need to register with CGFNS for credential evaluation ($420) and submit your professional transcripts and license verification documents.
While documentation challenges can arise, CGFNS now often waives NMCN verification for Nigerian nurses, which can help streamline submission timelines.
For verification, you’ll need to complete your license verification with NMCN (N80,000) and obtain your professional transcript.
Don’t forget to factor in potential expedited services ($250) if you’re working within tight deadlines.
Understanding state-specific requirements will help ensure your documentation meets local nursing board standards.
Strategic Planning for Testing Center Selection
Making smart choices about your NCLEX testing center can greatly impact your exam day experience.
When you’re planning your test location, consider both testing center accessibility and scheduling flexibility to guarantee a smooth process.
Here’s what you’ll want to prioritize:
- Schedule immediately after receiving your ATT to get your preferred date and location.
- Choose a center that’s easily reachable, considering potential travel restrictions.
- Check the center’s specific requirements and arrival procedures.
- Consider scheduling during off-peak hours for a quieter testing environment.
Managing Payment and Technical Issues
Successfully managing payment and technical issues during your NCLEX ATT process requires careful attention to detail and proactive planning.
When it comes to payment troubleshooting, make certain you’re using an accepted credit card and keep all transaction records. You’ll want to verify payment amounts carefully to avoid processing delays.
For email management, double-check your email address and regularly monitor your inbox, including spam folders.
If you encounter technical glitches, don’t hesitate to reach out to NRB’s support team. Remember that holiday seasons might cause delays, so plan accordingly and maintain open communication channels with both NRB and Pearson VUE throughout your journey.
Tips for Successful ATT Processing and Timeline
While managing the NCLEX ATT process might seem overwhelming, understanding key timeline factors and processing tips can help you stay on track.
As a Nigerian nurse pursuing your goals, you’ll want to implement successful application strategies that minimize delays and streamline your journey.
Here are four proactive communication tips to facilitate smooth ATT processing:
- Submit your application 3-4 months before your target test date
- Double-check all documents for accuracy before submission
- Keep a paper trail of all communications with the NRB
- Set calendar reminders to check your email daily, including spam folders
Conclusion
You’re now equipped to navigate the ATT process with confidence. By staying organized with your documents, carefully timing your application, and following the verification steps we’ve covered, you’ll minimize delays in your NCLEX journey. Remember, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed, but you’ve got this! Keep these guidelines handy, stay patient through the process, and you’ll be one step closer to achieving your nursing goals.