Important: This guide provides general information for foreign-trained professionals seeking US licensure. International licensing pathways change frequently. Always verify requirements directly with the credential evaluation agency, state licensing board, and — for visa questions — a qualified immigration attorney. LicenseMap does not provide legal or immigration advice.
Nigeria-Trained Registered Nurse License in Illinois
Key Facts
- State
- Illinois (IL)
- Licensing Board
- Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
- US Exam
- NCLEX-RN
- Timeline
- 8–18 months
- Est. Cost Range
- $2,000–$5,000
- Credential Eval
- CGFNS International
Illinois Requirements for Nigerian Registered Nurses
To practice as a registered nurse in Illinois, internationally educated applicants must have their B.NSc. (Bachelor of Nursing Science) evaluated for US equivalency and pass the NCLEX-RN. Illinois may have additional state-specific requirements such as jurisprudence exams, supervised practice hours, or continuing education.
Curriculum differences may exist in psychiatric nursing and community health components. Evaluators verify accreditation status of the nursing program. For the full list of Illinois registered nurse licensing requirements including fees, education prerequisites, and renewal details, see the complete Illinois registered nurse license guide.
All applicants must complete a background check as part of the Illinois application process. Fingerprinting requirements vary by state.
Step-by-Step: Nigeria to Illinois
- Get credentials evaluated by CGFNS International — submit official transcripts and degree certificate from Nigeria.
- Meet English proficiency requirements — typically via IELTS Academic or TOEFL iBT. Check Illinois board for minimum scores.
- Pass the NCLEX-RN — the same licensing exam required of US-educated registered nurses. VisaScreen certificate required for occupational visa.
- Apply to the Illinois licensing board — submit your credential evaluation, exam results, and application fee.
- Complete background check — fingerprinting and criminal history review as required by Illinois.
Estimated Costs for Illinois
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Credential Evaluation (CGFNS International) | $200–$500 |
| English Proficiency Exam | ~$200–$300 |
| NCLEX-RN Exam | Varies |
| Illinois Application Fee | Varies by state |
| Background Check / Fingerprinting | ~$30–$100 |
| Estimated Total | $2,000–$5,000 |
Costs are approximate. See the full Illinois registered nurse guide for detailed, state-specific fee information.
Full Illinois Registered Nurse License Guide
For complete details on Illinois licensing requirements including education prerequisites, exam info, fees, renewal, and reciprocity — see the full state guide.
View Illinois Registered Nurse Requirements