A current preparation map for internationally educated registered nurses applying to the College of Nurses of Ontario.
Apply directly through the CNO portal. Do not allow an unauthorized third party to sign into or submit your application.
You can pass NCLEX-RN and the Ontario jurisprudence examination.
Evidence level
Verified pathway briefing
This route is backed by the dated official evidence records shown below.
First-pass eligibility checks
Before you pay for anything
- Your nursing education is recognized or approved in the jurisdiction where it was completed.
- You can arrange an approved educational credential assessment if CNO requires one.
- You have recent paid nursing practice or another way to meet evidence of practice.
- You can meet the Transition to Practice and language requirements.
- You can pass NCLEX-RN and the Ontario jurisprudence examination.
The published route
Recognition steps
Open an RN General Class application with CNO
Apply directly through the CNO portal. Do not allow an unauthorized third party to sign into or submit your application.
Read the rule and source address →Complete the education and credential assessment
Provide education evidence from official sources and complete an assessment through an approved provider if CNO instructs you to do so.
Read the rule and source address →Meet evidence-of-practice and Transition to Practice requirements
CNO evaluates recent practice and Ontario-context readiness. A Transition to Practice course or approved pathway may be required.
Read the rule and source address →Pass NCLEX-RN and the jurisprudence examination
CNO will tell you when you are eligible to register for NCLEX-RN. The jurisprudence examination is completed online.
Read the rule and source address →Finish language, work-authorization, character and health requirements
Submit accepted language evidence, proof of authorization to work, declarations and the required police record check before registration.
Read the rule and source address →Costs we can substantiate
Fee view
Common questions
What applicants ask
Do internationally educated nurses always need NNAS for Ontario?
CNO’s current process directs applicants to its own portal and may require an educational credential assessment through an approved provider. Follow the instructions CNO gives for your application rather than assuming one universal route.
Is NCLEX-RN enough to become registered in Ontario?
No. Education, evidence of practice, Transition to Practice, jurisprudence, language, work authorization, character and health requirements may also apply.
Can PathProof tell me whether CNO will accept my exact degree?
PathProof can identify the published rule and preparation gaps, but CNO and its approved assessment process make the official decision.
Source register