Entry to Practice Exam Requirements

One of the requirements for registration and licensure is to pass our Board-approved exams based on the designation to which you are applying. 

For LPN registration, you must pass the following entry-to-practice exams: 

  1. Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Exam

For RN registration, you must pass the following entry-to-practice exams: 

  1. NCLEX-RN Exam (unless you have previously passed an exam accepted by NSCN)

For NP registration, you must pass the following entry-to-practice exams: 

  1. Applicable NP Exam based on the stream of practice you are seeking (family/all ages, adult, pediatric, neonatal)

NSCN CEO Directive – Waiver of Jurisprudence Examination Registration Requirement

Effective March 29, 2023, consistent with the objects of the College and under the authority of Section 44(b) of the Nursing Act, the CEO waives the following registration requirement:

  • Successful completion of the jurisprudence examination

This waiver applies to all applicants for initial registration in all designations until such time as the CEO determines otherwise. The jurisprudence examination is placed on hold pending evaluation of its use as a registration requirement. We encourage all new licence holders to be familiar with the jurisprudence information specific to their designation.

If you have any questions, please reach out to us at registration@nscn.ca. We strive to respond to you as soon as possible. However, due to the high volumes of emails and complexity of inquiries, our response time may vary.  

Please be advised that registration requirements and fees are subject to change. All registration and licensure fees are non-refundable. Click here to learn more about fees and payment options