Credential Evaluation for International Nurses

If you’re an internationally educated nurse preparing to apply for U.S. nursing licensure (LVN, LPN, or RN), a credential evaluation is the essential first step.

ERES specializes in accurate, board-recognized evaluations of foreign nursing education to help you meet state board of nursing requirements and move one step closer to your professional goals.

Who Needs a Nursing Credential Evaluation?

Credential evaluation is required if you:
  • Completed your nursing education outside the United States
  • Plan to apply for a nursing license in the U.S.
  • Are submitting documents to a state board of nursing for licensure or examination
  • Need verification of nursing education for NCLEX eligibility (depending on your state)
Whether you’re applying as an RN or LPN/LVN, ERES provides the evaluations needed to support your U.S. nursing licensure application.

How ERES Supports International Nurses

At ERES, we provide credential evaluation for international nurses with a clear, streamlined process tailored for U.S. licensure pathways. Our expert evaluators:
  • Review and equate foreign-educated nursing credentials to U.S. standards
  • Prepare detailed, accurate evaluation reports accepted by state boards
  • Provide fast turnaround times and responsive customer support
  • Help you meet documentation requirements for nursing licensure in the U.S.
We do not issue licenses, but we ensure your education is accurately represented for licensing boards and institutions that do.

Accepted by State Nursing Boards Across the U.S.

Our nursing credential evaluations are used by nurses applying to various state boards of nursing across the United States. Each state has its own licensure process, and most require credential evaluations from a recognized provider like ERES.

List of State Nursing Boards that we often work with

General Required Documentation

You must submit a nursing application (Form 100) to ERES and obtain a reference# before sending us any documents. We are not responsible for any documents arrive without a reference#.

*Your Form 101 and Form 102 (if you never obtained any foreign nursing license, then you don’t have to worry about Form 102) will be generated automatically once you complete a nursing application online.

*All original documents must be sent from your school with its Form 101.

*If you obtained a foreign nursing license, then verification must be sent from the license issued authority with its Form 102.

*Our evaluation report may appear differently due to requirement from each state nursing board.

Original Degree Certificate / Diploma or Proof of Graduation / Degree

Original Transcript or Marksheet in Native Language

Official English Translation of the Degree Certificate / Diploma and Transcripts or Marksheet if the language of instruction was not English

Course Description (in English) for all the courses in your professional nursing education

Requirement Details

ERES requires a precise, accurate, word by word translation for each document submitted in a language other than English.

List of acceptable translations:

  • ERES Translation
  • School-issued official Translation
  • Translation from a professional translator or translation agency

Basic Service

     Nursing Evaluation

It includes the institution(s) attended, dates of attendance credential(s) earned, and US equivalence(s). It also lists theoretical and practical / clinical hours for courses. Fee: Starts from $480
View Sample Report:

Additional Service

Rush Service

*Nursing Turnaround time without rush service is 5-7 weeks.

R15 (15-Day Rush Service)

Ready for pick-up or mailing in 15 or 16 business days after receipt of complete application, documents and payment.

Fee: additional $120

R10 (10-Day Rush Service)

Ready for pick-up or mailing in 10 or 11 business days after receipt of complete application, documents and payment.

Fee: additional $180

Start Your Nursing Evaluation Today

At ERES, we help international nurses unlock career opportunities in the United States through trusted credential evaluation services. With decades of experience and a commitment to clarity and professionalism, we’re here to support your journey to licensure.

Have questions? Contact us today or visit our FAQs for more information on the nursing evaluation process.

FAQs

What does CES stand for in nursing?

CES Stands for Credential Evaluation Service. Simply put, it’s a detailed report from an approved credential evaluation agency to help make sense of your international nursing qualifications. The CES report breaks down your foreign nursing credentials and compares them to U.S. standards. It shows how your education stacks up in the United States.

For how long is the CES report valid?

The validity of CES reports varies by agency and state board and is generally valid for 6 years.

But here’s the thing—after those 6 years are up, you might need to get a new report or update your old one. This may be necessary if there were big changes in your education or career or if the state board rules were revised. So, it is key to keep track of that 6-year mark to make sure everything stays up-to-date and hassle-free.

If your report expires, you might need to get a new CES report or update your existing one. This means you’ll probably have to resubmit your academic documents and pay a fee for the new evaluation. Keeping track of the report’s validity period helps you avoid delays or complications in your professional or academic journey.

How to get the CES nursing report?

To obtain a CES (Credential Evaluation Service) nursing report, first choose an approved evaluation agency recognized by the state board of nursing or similar organizations.

Prepare your international nursing diploma, transcripts, and other required documents. Ensure the documents are translated into English if required. Then, complete the application form provided by the agency and submit it along with your documents.

Once you’ve submitted your application, The agency will assess your credentials against U.S. standards and prepare your report. After processing, you’ll receive a detailed CES nursing report that compares your international qualifications with U.S. requirements. It also outlines any extra steps needed for licensure or employment. Make sure you review the report carefully and follow up with the agency if you need to take any further steps.

What is included in a CES nursing report?

A CES (Credential Evaluation Service) nursing report provides a detailed assessment of your international nursing qualifications.  It includes details about your overseas educational institution, the coursework completed, courses done, and how these match U.S. nursing standards.The report also breaks down the degree’s equivalency and has an analysis of your grades, clinical hours, and practical experience in relation to U.S. requirements.

Can I track the status of my CES nursing report online?

Yes, you can track the status of your CES (Credential Evaluation Service) nursing report online through the ERES portal. After you’ve submitted your application and all required documents, you’ll receive a unique login to access the portal. Here, you can monitor the progress of your evaluation, from the initial document submission to the final submission of your report to your chosen board. Regular updates keep you informed throughout the process.

Tracking your CES report online offers peace of mind, as there is clear visibility of where your application stands. If any issues arise or additional information is needed, the portal will notify you instantly so that you can address any issues without delay. This level of transparency ensures that your credentials are evaluated efficiently, making the process more transparent and smooth.