This article will answer any questions you may have about the Nova Scotia College of Nursing (NSCN) Expedited License for Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs).
A step-by-step tutorial on how to complete your Nova Scotia College of Nursing (NSCN) application can be found here.
The FAQ PDF file can be downloaded here.
Licensure Information
Do I have to be currently licensed as an RN to be eligible for the expedited licensure process?
Yes. You must have current licensure and be in good standing as a registered nurse (RN) in the Philippines, India, Nigeria, USA, UK, Australia or New Zealand.
What does current licensure mean?
Current licensure means you hold a practicing license that entitles you to practice as a registered nurse.
If you are not currently licensed in one of the seven designated countries, you are not eligible for this pathway.
What does good standing mean?
Good standing means you are not subject to any outstanding complaints with your current regulator; and there are no prohibitions, conditions, agreements or restrictions on your license or registration with your current regulator that would prevent registration with NSCN.
Application Information
Where can I apply for the new expedited process?
The new expedited licensing process is available on the NSCN website.
What is the Nova Scotia College of Nursing (NSCN)?
The Nova Scotia College of Nursing (NSCN) is a regulatory body that governs the practice of nursing in Nova Scotia.
The NSCN’s mission is to protect the public by ensuring that nurses are competent and ethical practitioners.
What is the purpose of the NSCN?
The purpose of the NSCN is to:
- Protect the public by ensuring that nurses are competent and ethical practitioners.
- Set standards for nursing education and practice.
- Register nurses and issue licenses to practice nursing in Nova Scotia.
- Investigate complaints about nurses and take disciplinary action when necessary.
- Provide information and resources to nurses and the public about nursing.
What are the different types of nurses regulated by the NSCN?
The NSCN regulates three types of nurses:
Licensed practical nurses (LPNs)
Registered nurses (RNs)
Nurse practitioners (NPs)
What are the requirements for becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN) in Nova Scotia?
To become a licensed practical nurse in Nova Scotia, you must:
- Complete a diploma or certificate program in practical nursing from an approved institution.
- Pass the NCLEX-PN examination.
- Apply for and be granted a license by the NSCN.
What are the requirements for becoming a registered nurse (RN) in Nova Scotia?
To become a registered nurse in Nova Scotia, you must:
- Complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from an approved institution.
- Pass the NCLEX-RN examination.
- Apply for and be granted a license by the NSCN.
What are the requirements for becoming a nurse practitioner (NP) in Nova Scotia?
To become a nurse practitioner in Nova Scotia, you must:
- Complete a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing from an approved institution.
- Pass the ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center) certification examination for nurse practitioners.
- Apply for and be granted a license by the NSCN.
I have already passed the NCLEX-RN, do I need to retake it?
If you have already passed the NCLEX-RN, you do not need to retake the exam.
How do I apply for licensure with the Nova Scotia College of Nursing (NSCN)?
To apply for licensure with the NSCN, you must complete an application form and submit the following documents:
- Proof of identity
- Proof of education
- Proof of passing the NCLEX-PN or NCLEX-RN examination
- A criminal record check
What is the cost of the expedited process?
The cost of the application assessment for the new expedited licensure process is $50+HST for a total of $57.50. You are no longer required to pay the IEN Assessment fee.
What are the continuing education requirements for nurses in Nova Scotia?
Nurses in Nova Scotia are required to complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years.
What are the disciplinary procedures for nurses in Nova Scotia?
The NSCN has a disciplinary process for nurses who violate the standards of practice. The disciplinary process can include a reprimand, suspension, or revocation of license.
I am currently already in the application process with NSCN, but want to apply under the new process? Do I have to re-apply and submit a new application?
No, you are not required to re-apply. The NSCN registration team is reviewing all current applicants for eligibility to determine how our new expedited process will benefit you. You can expect an update on your application from the NSCN directly by email after this review is complete.
My license in one of the seven countries has expired. Can I apply under this new process?
No, you are not eligible for this new expedited process.
However, if you reinstate your license as a registered nurse in one of these seven countries, you will be eligible for the expedited licensure process.
Reinstatement demonstrates that you have met the registration and licensing requirements of that jurisdiction .
How can I meet the English language proficiency registration requirement?
International nurses who have completed their entry-level nursing programs and established registration and licensure in one of the seven designated countries have been deemed to have met the English language requirement.
Summary
We hope this post has given you an idea of what to expect when applying for a license with the Nova Scotia College of Nursing (NSCN) as an internationally educated nurse (IEN).
Remember to read all instructions carefully and provide accurate information when filling out your application.
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