Out-of-State NCLEX Testing & Reimbursement

Full Guide for California Graduates

1. Overview

Nightingale College will cover the cost of applying for an Authorization to Test (ATT) in another eligible state for California graduates whose original California BRN application is still pending. This document explains the full process, what's covered, and what to expect.

2. Why This Option Exists

The delay in California ATT approvals is stressful and unfair, and we don't have a timeline from the BRN. This reimbursement gives graduates a way to take the NCLEX and secure that credential now — it does not replace or reduce Nightingale's ongoing commitment to helping you achieve California licensure.

This option is entirely optional and not the right fit for everyone. It exists for one purpose: to let you use your NCLEX preparation now rather than wait indefinitely on the BRN.

3. Choosing a State

Nightingale has designated three states as the primary options for California graduates: Arizona, Utah, and Nevada. Of these, Utah currently offers the fastest process.

If you've identified a viable option in another state, the reimbursement form includes an “Other state” selection for that purpose.

4. Step-by-Step Process

Step	Action
1	Confirm your California ATT application is still pending with the BRN (Not required)
2	Choose an eligible state (Utah recommended for speed, Nevada also a designated option)
3	Apply for ATT directly with that state's Board of Nursing; pay the fee yourself
4	Complete fingerprinting if that state requires it
5	Pay any Pearson VUE test-center change fee, if applicable
6	Pay that state's licensure fee once you're eligible
7	Take the NCLEX in that state
8	Submit all receipts/confirmations via the reimbursement form (rolling, no deadline)

5. What Nightingale Will Reimburse

Alternate-state ATT application fee
Fingerprinting fee, if applicable
Pearson VUE change fee, if applicable
Alternate-state licensure fee, only if not already reimbursed through Nightingale's separate NCLEX reimbursement process (see College Catalog)

Reimbursement cap for states outside AZ/UT/NV: If you test in a state other than our three designated options, reimbursement for each fee type is capped at the amount Nightingale would reimburse for that same fee type in AZ, UT, or NV. Any additional cost in your chosen state is your responsibility.

6. What Nightingale Will Not Reimburse

California endorsement fees
Any refund of your original California ATT/application fee — refund decisions for that fee rest entirely with the California BRN

7. Reimbursement Submission

Submit documentation (receipts, confirmations) through the reimbursement form: Reimbursement Form

There is no submission deadline; this is a rolling, ongoing process.

8. Important Considerations Before You Decide

No guarantee of California endorsement. The California BRN has indicated it will not endorse out-of-state licenses into California in the short term while its course-equivalency review continues.
Limited California job eligibility. An out-of-state nursing license is not accepted for most California nursing positions.
Federal facility exception. You may be eligible to work at federal facilities located in California — including VA hospitals, military treatment facilities, Indian Health Service facilities, and federal Bureau of Prisons health units — because these are not bound by California's BRN licensure requirement. (Note: specific eligibility can vary by facility and role.)
Employment in the testing state. Passing the NCLEX in another state makes you eligible to work as a nurse in that state, opening additional employment options.
Your NCLEX credential is permanent. Regardless of what happens with California licensure timing, once you pass, you keep that credential for life.
Conditional job offers. If an employer has extended a conditional offer pending licensure, ask whether they can extend that window. Many employers are willing to.

9. Nightingale's Commitment

Choosing not to test out of state — or testing out of state and still not being endorsed quickly by California — does not change Nightingale's commitment to helping every graduate achieve California licensure. We continue to press the BRN for answers and will share updates as they become available.

Take the NCLEX. Don't wait on California to make your next move.