Navigating US Nursing Education and Employment for International Students

As a student pursuing a diploma in nursing in Kenya, you might wonder if it is possible to work in the United States while you are still studying. The answer is not straightforward. The U.S. is in great need of nurses, but the immigration policies for non-US citizens can be restrictive. Understanding the processes and requirements involved can help you take the necessary steps to achieve your career goals.

Understanding Visa Requirements

International nurses looking to work in the U.S. must meet strict visa requirements. These requirements include:

A bachelor's degree in nursing (BScN, BN, BSN) from an accredited university or relevant experience. A valid nursing license. A minimum of two years of recent work experience as a nurse. Proper documentation of work experience.

These requirements can present a significant challenge for international students, especially those with only a diploma or vocational training. However, there are steps you can take to make your transition to the U.S. as smooth as possible.

Educational Assessment and Credentialing

The first step in preparing to work as a nurse in the U.S. is to undergo a comprehensive educational assessment and credentialing. If you have completed a nursing diploma outside the U.S., you will need to evaluate your academic credentials.

The Credentialing Organization for Foreign Nurses in the U.S. (CGFNS) can be your partner in this process. CGFNS will review your nursing courses and compare them to the U.S. nursing curriculum standards. You need to have at least 240 instructional and 300 clinical hours in five nursing areas (pediatric, psychiatric, obstetric, oncological, and geriatric nursing). Candidates may need additional courses in areas of deficiency to meet these standards.

Additionally, if your nursing education was not in English or your country does not use English as a primary language, you may need to take an English proficiency test. CGFNS also offers a screening exam that is often required by U.S. states to be eligible to take the NCLEX nurse licensing exam.

NCLEX and Licensing

Nurses must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to obtain a nursing license in the U.S. CGFNS issues authorization for you to take the NCLEX exam. The pass rate for international nurses is approximately 46%, so thorough preparation is essential.

Once you have passed the NCLEX, you can apply for a nursing license in an U.S. state. This step marks a significant milestone in your journey to work as a nurse in the United States. Remember to seek a visa-eligible job, meaning the position does not have any U.S. citizen applicants.

Finding a Visa-Eligible Job

International nurses often face challenges in finding employment in the U.S. due to stringent immigration requirements. It is crucial to work with reputable nurse recruiters who are in the list approved by CGFNS. Beware of scams and false recruiting agents that may claim to be able to help you bypass the regulations.

CGFNS maintains a list of ethical and reliable nurse recruiting agents. Engaging these professionals can provide you with greater assurance that your application and supporting documents are in order and that your job search process is as efficient as possible.

In conclusion, while working as a nurse in the U.S. while studying a diploma in nursing may seem challenging, with proper planning, the right resources, and adherence to the necessary processes and requirements, it is achievable. Understanding these steps can help you navigate the complexities of U.S. immigration policies and significantly increase your chances of success.