How to Become an RN in Massachusetts – A Simple Guide

So, you want to become a registered nurse in Massachusetts, right?

Well, you made a great choice!

Becoming an RN in Massachusetts is advantageous for you. Aside from being able to help people medically, you will also be given a lot of work opportunities. 

If you’re a first-timer, then you’ll have to go through the whole application process, which includes completing a nursing program and taking an exam. 

But if you already have a license from another state, you can apply for a license by reciprocity. 

We’ll discuss these – plus more – in this article. We’ll also make sure to keep it as simple as possible.

So if you’re ready to learn how to become an RN in Massachusetts, let’s dive right into it!

How to Become a Registered Nurse in Massachusetts in 3 Steps

Becoming a registered nurse in Massachusetts only has three major steps: 

1. Graduate from a Nursing Education Program
2. Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for RNs (NCLEX-RN)
3. Apply for an RN License

Each step has requirements that you need to pass and application fees. 

We’ll discuss each step one by one.

How to Become an RN in Massachusetts Step #1: Graduate from a Nursing Education Program

The first step is to acquire nursing education to become eligible to take the NCLEX-RN. 

You can choose from two programs: an Associate Degree of Nursing (ADN) and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing (BSN). 

ADN vs. BSN: What is the Difference?

The most obvious difference between the two degrees is the length of time it takes to graduate. If you’re going to study full-time, the ADN only takes two years while the BSN takes four years. 

If you want to take the NCLEX-RN sooner and get started with your nursing career, the ADN is a good choice. However, BSN degree holders end up having more opportunities. 

In Massachusetts, more and more hospitals already require RNs to be Bachelor’s degree holders. This requirement is especially true for all Boston hospitals. 

The main reason is that a BSN program has a full curriculum, similar to other BS programs. It will also have labs, nursing ethics, and other lectures that fully prepare you for handling medical equipment. 

The best part about BSN is that if you wish to be a nurse in a specialized field, you can go on and get further studies. You can’t do the same if you took the ADN. 

But this is not to say that the ADN is not a good program. It is still a valid program to take for the NCLEX. In fact, if you want, it can even be your starting point to get a BSN degree by taking a bridge program later on in life. 

However, if you are looking for more immediate career opportunities and advancement, then BSN is the best option for you.

Regardless of which program you choose, just make sure that you enroll in a program that is approved by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing. 

How to Become an RN in Massachusetts Step #2: Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for RNs (NCLEX-RN)

After graduating from your nursing education program, you are now allowed to take the NCLEX. Make sure that you apply for an RN exam since there are several types of NCLEX. 

Before you take the NCLEX, you need to secure an Authorization to Test (ATT), which is given after you do the following steps:

1. Apply for an RN license in Massachusetts here.
2. Create an account for your registration.
3. Upload a recent 2×2 passport-type colored photo of you online.
4. Upload your graduation certificate from a board-approved nursing education program.
5. Call or apply online at Pearson Vue.
6. Choose your NCLEX-RN schedule.
7. Pay the exam fee of $230 online.

After paying, you will receive an ATT on your preferred testing schedule. 

The NCLEX-RN will test your knowledge on several nursing topics and practices. If you don’t pass it the first time, you may retake it eight times as long as you allow 45 days in between your test schedules. 

You will get the results of the exam in 2-4 weeks. 

How to Become an RN in Massachusetts Step #3: Apply for an RN License 

Steps 2 and 3 are similar because you’re applying in the same portal. However, step 2 is more of getting authorization to take the NCLEX-RN. You need to pass the NCLEX to be able to get your final RN license. 

Once you receive your results in 2-4 weeks, go back to your account and complete your license application. 

Pay the $230 fee for the application. You are only allowed to pay this online and through a credit card. 

Once you settle this, you will receive your RN license in a few weeks. 

But there is another way to apply for a license in Massachusetts. 

Licensure by Reciprocity/Endorsement

What if you are already an RN in another state? Do you need to take the NCLEX all over again?

The application process is different for you because you will be applying by reciprocity rather than by examination. 

While Massachusetts is not a part of the Nursing License Compact, which allows RNs to practice in other partner states, it does allow you to get a license by reciprocity.

You can check out the procedure here if you come from a different state and currently have an RN license.  

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Registered Nurse in Massachusetts

How much does it cost to become an RN in Massachusetts?

The total fee for the application for an RN license is $430. $200 is the NCLEX-RN fee and $230 is the online application fee. 

Is Massachusetts a compact RN state?

No, unfortunately, Massachusetts is not included in the Nursing License Compact. So even if you have a license from a different state, this will not be honored. 

Instead, you will need to apply for a license by reciprocity.

How long does it take to become an RN in Massachusetts?

If you’re taking the ADN route, you should be able to get your license in about three years. This period includes a few weeks of waiting to get your NCLEX results and get your official RN license. 

On the other hand, if you’re taking the BSN route, you will complete the whole process in 5 years. This also includes the four-year program and the several weeks between taking the exam and getting your license. 

When should you renew your RN license in Massachusetts?

You need to renew your license every two years on your birthday. 

Visit the California BON website for updates.

Helpful Resources for Massachusetts RNs

• Massachusetts Board of Nursing Website (Official)
• Information for RN Applicants (Official)
• Massachusetts RN Continuing Education Requirements (Official)
• Associate Degree Programs (ADNS) Approved by Massachusetts BON
• Baccalaureate Degree Programs (BSNs) approved by Massachusetts BON

List of Associate Degree Programs (ADNs) in Massachusetts

Here’s a list of ADN programs approved by the Massachusetts BON:

Visit the Massachusetts BON website for updates.

List of Baccalaureate Degree Programs (BSNs) in Massachusetts

Here’s a list of BSN programs approved by the Massachusetts BON:

Visit the Massachusetts BON website for updates.

In Summary

Massachusetts offers a lot of opportunities for those who want to become registered nurses. But if you want to reap the full benefits of the nursing industry in this state, we recommend that you take a BSN program. 

A BSN program may be longer than the ADN, but it opens more doors for you to be accepted in hospitals (especially in Boston). 

Nonetheless, whatever program you take, you still need to pass the NCLEX-RN and apply for a license online to get your Massachusetts RN license. 

We hope this helps you understand the RN process!