Massachusetts Registered Nurse (RN) Initial Licensure by Examination: Foreign Educated

Important Note: If you have already been certified by PCS as a graduate of a Board approved nursing education program located outside of the US or in Canada, do not complete this application. Please complete the Initial Nurse Licensure by Examination (NCLEX) Application.

STEP 1. Read the directions linked below.

• Canadian Educated:

INSTRUCTIONS AND INFORMATION TO COMPLETE CERTIFICATION GRADUATION FROM A BOARD APPROVED NURSING EDUCATION PROGRAM LOCATED IN CANADA

• All Other Foreign Educated Applicants:

INSTRUCTIONS AND INFORMATION TO COMPLETE CERTIFICATION GRADUATION FROM A BOARD APPROVED NURSING EDUCATION PROGRAM LOCATED OUTSIDE OF THE UNITED STATES AND THE TERRITORIES OF AMERICAN SAMOA, GUAM, NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS, and U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Additional application information

TESTS OF ENGLISH PROFICIENCY (LICENSURE POLICY 06-01)

STEP 2. Log into ELX and complete, and submit the Foreign Trained Pre-Approval Application, pay fees, and submit supporting documentation.

STEP 3: PCS reviews applications and documents for completeness and accuracy.

• If education does not meet Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing requirements, the Board will notify the applicant in writing.
• If education meets Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing requirements, the applicants will receive a Letter of Eligibility along with next steps and directions on how to apply for a MA Nursing License.