Can a GNM Nurse Become an RN in Canada? Yes, and Here’s How!

Are you an Internationally Educated Nurse (IEN) with a General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) or a Nursing Diploma qualification? If so, you might be wondering “Can a GNM Nurse Become an RN in Canada?” The answer is a resounding yes! In this blog post, I explain how I successfully transitioned from a GNM Nurse to a Canadian RN, I will guide you through the steps to make your dream a reality. So, let’s dive in!

Is there any difference between B.Sc and Nursing Diploma Holders in Canada?

If your goal is to become an RN in Canada, then there is no difference between B.Sc and Nursing Diploma holders when it comes to the application process. Both are eligible to apply for registration with the College of Nurses in each province in Canada.

Also Read: How to become a Registered Nurse in Ontario?

In my case,I am Nursing Diploma holder and working as a Registered Nurse in Max Hospital Saket, New Delhi. So don’t need to worry! There are many Nursing Diploma holders like me working as Registered Nurses in Canada.

With that said, if you want to become a Nurse Practitioner or a Nurse Educator, then you may need to pursue a Bachelors of Science in Nursing (BSN).

Steps to Becoming a Registered Nurse in Canada as a GNM Nurse

The process to become a Registered Nurse in Canada is same for both B.Sc Nurses and Nursing Diploma holders . It includes the following steps:

Step 1: NNAS (National Nursing Assessment Service)

The first step in your journey is to apply to the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS). This is a centralized application service that assists IENs in obtaining their nursing credentials in Canada. Through NNAS, your educational qualifications, credentials, and work experience will be evaluated to determine your eligibility for further steps. Before you start doing NNAS, make sure to check our latest article on the Essential tips to fast track your NNAS application process in 2023.

Step 2: Apply to the Regulatory Body

Once you receive a positive NNAS Advisory Report, the next step is to apply to the regulatory body in the Canadian province where you wish to become a registered nurse. Each province has its own regulatory body, such as the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) or the British Columbia College of Nursing Professionals (BCCNP). Their role is to assess your application, ensure you meet their requirements, and grant you registration.

Step 3: Write the NCLEX-RN Exam

Upon receiving eligibility from the regulatory body, you will be required to write the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses) exam. This exam tests your nursing knowledge and skills to ensure you meet the standards set by the nursing profession in Canada, USA and Australia. Passing the NCLEX-RN is a crucial step toward becoming a registered nurse.

If you have passed NCLEX-RN exam after April 2023, you can transfer the results to the Nursing Regulatory Body in Canada. Provinces like Ontario, accepts the exam results without having to write the exam again.

Step 4: Fulfill Other Requirements

In addition to the NCLEX-RN, you may need to meet other requirements, such as language proficiency, Vulnerability check, and safe practice requirements. If you have a significant gap in your nursing practice (more than 3 years), you might be asked to complete a Supervised Practice and Education Program (SPEP). These additional requirements vary by province, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements of the regulatory body in your chosen province.

Pro Tip: Fast-Track via the USA

If you’re eager to expedite the process of obtaining NCLEX-RN eligibility, you can consider a faster route through the United States. The wait time to obtain NCLEX-RN eligibility via the USA is typically 3-4 months, which is significantly shorter compared to the 10-12 months through the CNO (College of Nurses of Ontario) route. Plus, transferring the NCLEX-RN results from the states like Illinois is hassle free. Exploring this option could potentially speed up your journey toward becoming a registered nurse in Canada.

Conclusion:

To all the GNM nurses aspiring to become registered nurses in Canada, it is indeed possible! By following these steps, including the NNAS evaluation, applying to the regulatory body, writing the NCLEX-RN exam, and fulfilling any additional requirements, you can achieve your goal of becoming an RN in Canada. Remember, the process may vary slightly depending on the province, so it’s crucial to research and connect with the appropriate regulatory body for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Best of luck on your journey to becoming a registered nurse in Canada!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for general information purposes only and is not meant to replace professional advice. The steps outlined above may vary depending on the applicant’s province of residence and any additional requirements set by the regulatory body. It is important to research and connect with the appropriate regulatory body for the most accurate and up-to-date information.