Nurses Registration Process – Nova Scotia
The Nova Scotia College of Nursing (NSCN) regulates nursing licensure in Nova Scotia. Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs) must follow NSCN’s current international applicant process and complete the requirements for the nursing category they are applying for (RN or LPN).
Step 1: Confirm your nursing category (RN or LPN)
Choose the correct category before you begin because requirements and exams differ:
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RN (Registered Nurse)
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LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse)
Click here, to follow the NSCN international applicants instructions for your category
Step 2: Meet NSCN’s currency of practice requirement
NSCN requires international applicants to meet currency of practice expectations. If your nursing practice is not recent, you may be required to complete additional steps (for example, a re-entry program or competence assessment) before you can be licensed.
Step 3: Complete credential assessment through NNAS
NSCN directs internationally educated applicants to begin with the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS). NNAS collects and verifies key documents (education, registration history, and other required forms) and produces an Advisory Report for regulators.
Check NNAS
Check NNAS document instructions
Step 4: Apply to NSCN and follow your application checklist
After your NNAS step is completed, NSCN will review your file and provide your next steps through their process. Follow NSCN’s checklist carefully and submit documents exactly as requested to avoid delays.
Step 5: Meet English language requirements
NSCN has a dedicated English language proficiency requirement page. Always follow NSCN’s accepted tests and evidence types, and confirm how results must be submitted.
Step 6: Complete any assessment or education NSCN assigns
After reviewing your file, NSCN may require additional steps if gaps are identified (for example, competence assessment or bridging/re-entry options). These requirements depend on your specific background and documentation.
Step 7: Write the required exam (RN vs LPN)
Your exam depends on the category you are applying for:
RN (Registered Nurse): NCLEX-RN
NSCN RN “Eligibility & Next Steps” document
LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse): CPNRE
NSCN LPN “Eligibility & Next Steps” document
Step 8: Final registration and ongoing requirements
Once you have completed all requirements and passed the required exam, NSCN will finalize your registration. After registration, you must renew your licence and meet ongoing professional obligations as required by NSCN.