Are you planning to become an RN in Alaska but don’t know where to start?
Good thing you found us!
Let’s face it, becoming an RN is not that easy. It takes lots of effort and time to get a nursing license, and the process can get pretty confusing.
But we’re here to help you out!
In this guide, you will know all the crucial steps and requirements of how to become an RN in Alaska.
So, are you ready?
Let’s begin learning more about how to obtain your RN license!
How to Become an RN in Alaska: 5 Simple Steps
Here are the steps to becoming an RN in Alaska:
- Look for an accredited nursing program.
- Complete the nursing program.
- Apply for state licensure.
- Register for and pass the NCLEX
- Get professional experience
Without further ado, let’s discuss each one in detail.
How to Become an RN in Alaska Step #1: Look for an Accredited Nursing Program
To be a registered nurse in Alaska, you need to earn your nursing degree. The first step is to find an accredited nursing program in Alaska.
Some of the things you will be trained on is how to administer medication, provide patient care, and maintain medical records.
Even though Alaska is considered the largest state in the nation, there are only a few accredited nursing schools for aspiring RNs.
You can find the list of schools here.
You need to make sure that the nursing school is accredited and state-approved to prevent running into problems later in your career.
To get more information on how to choose a good nursing school, check out this article.
How to Become an RN in Alaska Step #2: Complete the Nursing Program
In Alaska, there are two options to obtain your nursing degree—the Associate Nursing Degree (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
The Associate Nursing Degree or ADN is a two-year program and is the quickest way to obtain a nursing degree.
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing or BSN is twice as long as an ADN. Students are taught advanced-level topics that give students more dynamic career opportunities in the greater community or within a direct care setting.
Both degree options qualify graduates for a nursing license, but don’t qualify them for the same nursing positions.
If you are an ADN-RN, you can choose to upgrade your license to a BSN-RN license by completing bridge programs.
How to Become an RN in Alaska Step #3: Apply for State Licensure
Before registering for the NCLEX-RN, you need to apply for Alaska licensure from the Alaska Board of Nursing.
Here are the steps and requirements for applying for an Alaskan RN License by examination:
- The candidate should have a recent passport photo.
- Complete and submit a notarized Application for Licensure by Examination form to the Alaska Board of Nursing. You can download the forms online at the Alaska Board of Nursing website.
- Complete the FD 258 fingerprint cards obtained from the Board of Nursing website or from a local law enforcement agency.
- Pay for the $284 fee for the application, fingerprint cards, and the initial licensing fee.
- Send the Nursing Program Verification form to the nursing school attended to verify the completion of an approved nursing program.
- Request a copy of your official transcript from your nursing school.
- If seeking a temporary permit, you must pay an additional $50. This permit is valid for 6 months and the candidate must take and pass the NCLEX within the time frame.
- Once the official transcript is with you, mail it to the Alaska Board of Nursing.
550 West 7th Avenue, Suite 1500
Anchorage, AK 99501-3567
How to Become an RN in Alaska Step #4: Register for and Pass the NCLEX
The NCLEX exam is designed to test the skills, knowledge, and abilities of an aspiring nurse.
This examination is an important factor when the boards of nursing decide on the licensure of the candidates.
Regardless of whether you choose an ADN or BSN, nursing graduates are required to take the NCLEX at the end of the nursing program. The first step is to register for the NCLEX by submitting an application to the Alaska Board of Nursing.
Register for the NCLEX
Here are a few requirements to be able to take the NCLEX:
- Apply for licensure in the territory or state you wish to be licensed.
- Meet eligibility requirements.
- Register for the NCLEX with Pearson VUE.
In addition to applying for licensure, you need to register for the NCLEX since it is administered by Pearson VUE. The registration fee is $200.
You can register online or you may call Pearson VUE at 1-866-496-2539.
Once you submitted all requirements and registered for the exam, the Alaska Board of Nursing will notify Pearson VUE if you’re eligible to take the NCLEX.
Once approved, Pearson VUE will issue an Authorization to Test (ATT) and you may schedule the date of your examination within 90 days.
Pass the NCLEX
After all the effort and hard work you’ve been through to reach this point, you’re one step closer to reaching your goal!
The NCLEX focus on these areas:
- Health Promotion and Maintenance
- Physiological (mental health for yourself and your patients)
- Physiological (overall nursing care)
- Safe Effective Care Environment
You need to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled exam and bring the following for proof of identification:
- Passport
- Driver’s license
- State identification
- Military ID
- Permanent residence card
After taking the NCLEX, the results will come up within 14 days after you took the exam.
If you pass the exam, the State of Alaska will issue you a nursing license.
How to Become an RN in Alaska Step #5: Get Professional Experience
Congratulations on getting your RN license!
Now that you’re officially a licensed RN in Alaska, you should have the professional experience to help you become a better nurse. Moreover, the experience will help give you endless career opportunities.
However, getting your license is not the last step in becoming an RN.
You also need to earn 30 hours of continuing education credits every two years to be able to practice and maintain your license.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Become an RN in Alaska
How much is the average salary of RNs in Alaska?
The salaries of RNs depend on which region in Alaska you’re in.
On average, RNs in Alaska earn about $95,270 per year or about $45.81 per hour which is 19% higher than the national average salary for registered nurses.
How long is an Alaska RN license good for?
Your RN license is good for two years. It will expire on November 30th in an even-numbered year.
How many times can I take the Alaska NCLEX?
The majority of candidates pass the NCLEX on their first try, however, those who failed the exam can retake it after 45 days from their first exam schedule.
You can retake the NCLEX as many as 8 times in one year. You must pass the exam within three years after graduating from nursing school.
Helpful Resources for Alaska RNs
- Alaska Board of Nursing Website (Official)
- Information for RN Applicants (Official)
- Alaska RN Continuing Education Requirements (Official)
- Associate Degree Programs (ADNS) Approved by Alaska BON
- Baccalaureate Degree Programs (BSNs) approved by Alaska BON
Associate Degree Program (ADNs) in Alaska
Here’s an ADN program approved by the Alaska BON:
Alaska Pacific University
4101 University Dr, Anchorage, AK 99508, United States
+1 800-252-7528
Visit the Alaska BON website for updates.
Baccalaureate Degree Program (BSNs) in Alaska
Here’s a BSN program approved by the Alaska BON:
Alaska Pacific University
4101 University Dr, Anchorage, AK 99508, United States
+1 800-252-7528
Visit the Alaska BON website for updates.
Conclusion
There you have it!
Knowing the process and requirements of how to become an RN in Alaska beforehand will make it a LOT easier for you to pursue your goal!
We hope that our simple guide will help you in starting your nursing career.
Best of luck!