NCLEX JOURNEY FOR NON-REGISTERED NURSES.
If you’re a midwife, psychiatric nurse, or public health nurse trained in Ghana and dreaming of practicing in the USA, Canada, or Australia, this article is for you. The process of taking the NCLEX-RN is possible—but not always straightforward.
We’ll walk you through the real challenges and the real solutions. Let’s dive in.
Understanding the Educational Gap
In Ghana, many nurses specialize directly after high school. Unlike in the U.S. or Canada—where nurses must complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) before specializing—this path may lead to gaps in critical coursework required abroad.
Commonly missing subjects include:
- Geriatric Nursing
- Surgical Nursing II
- Medical Nursing II
- Pharmacology II
When State Boards in the U.S. evaluate your transcript, these missing subjects can lead to your application being denied
So, Can You Take the NCLEX?
Yes, you can take the NCLEX-RN—but eligibility depends on the State Board of Nursing you apply to.
Some boards are flexible and may accept your credentials, while others are stricter. Choosing the wrong board can lead to rejection, wasted money, and months of lost time.
💡 Expert Tip: Work with advisors who understand which boards are best for Ghana-trained nurses in specialized fields like midwifery.
What Happens After Passing the NCLEX?
Passing the NCLEX is a major step—but the immigration process brings its own set of challenges.
The EB-3 visa, commonly used by nurses, requires you to be officially recognized as a Registered Nurse in your home country. Unfortunately, many midwives, psychiatric nurses, and public health nurses in Ghana don’t hold the “RN” title, which can cause problems at the U.S. embassy during your visa interview.
Alternative Immigration Routes
If EB-3 isn’t an option, here are three alternative paths you can explore:
- H-1B Visa – If you qualify and find a sponsoring employer, this work visa can be a good option.
- F-1 Student Visa – After holding your USRN license, most universities in the united states offers courses like RN-BSC-MSN program for RNs who are diploma holders: You acquire your BSC and master qualifications in the same program,. RN-DNP: if you are a BSC holder with NLCEX pass, it allows you to go straight to do a doctor of nursing practice (DNP), a highly esteemed course that allow you to be an independent prescriber. Admission into any of these programs permits you to use F-1 student visa route, leading you into the united states even faster. Once you are in the united states, you can apply for the EB3 visa through an employer, have your I-140 approved and you file for adjustment of status; successfully skipping consular process under the EB3 visa.
- Bridge or Top-Up Programs – Designed to help international nurses meet general RN requirements.
Why Expert Guidance Matters
Trying to navigate this process alone can cost you valuable time and money. From choosing the right State Board to planning your immigration route, it pays to have a guide who understands both the Ghanaian and international nursing systems.
🎯 One wrong step can set you back years. Get it right the first time with expert support.
In Conclusion: Yes, You Can Write NCLEX
Your dream of working abroad is valid—and absolutely achievable. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all journey.
With the right information and support, you can pass the NCLEX, find the right Board of Nursing, and successfully immigrate.
🚀 Needs help planning your NCLEX journey?