Click on each question to read its answer.
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How many nurses currently hold the CPEN certification?
Currently, more than 5,500 CPEN certifications are held.
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Who is eligible to sit for a BCEN exam?
To qualify for the exam, you must hold a current, unrestricted Registered Nurse license in either the United States, a US Territory, Canada or Australia. A nursing certificate that is equivalent to a Registered Nurse in the United States is also acceptable and must be verified through CGFNS International.
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I got my degree/license in another country. Am I eligible?
You may be eligible. We can help get your degree/licensure verified through our International Credential Evaluation service. Our partner, CGFNS International, Inc., will help authenticate your foreign degree or license and report back to us. To start the process, click here.
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How many years of experience do I need in my specialty area to sit for the exam?
BCEN recommends you have 2 years’ experience in your specialty area however, it is not required.
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I no longer work in the clinical setting; can I still sit for the exam?
Yes, as long as you have a current, unrestricted Registered Nurse license.
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If I am a retired nurse can I still use the BCEN credential?
Your BCEN credential can be used until your expiration date; however, you can apply for a retired designation. For more information, click here.
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Are there other considerations?
Any restriction, suspension, probation, or any order arising from a Nursing License Authority that limits a nurse’s ability to function and perform related tasks will disqualify a candidate to sit for the examination unless the candidate is a qualified individual with a disability who can function and perform all related tasks with or without reasonable accommodation. These candidates must submit in writing, to the BCEN office, evidence of disability along with an application and documentation materials in order for consideration of eligibility.
A current stipulation or action against a candidate’s nursing license, but the candidate is permitted to perform all functions and related tasks, the candidate may be eligible to take the examination. These candidates must submit an official letter from the Nursing License Authority along with an application and documentation materials to the BCEN office verifying that there are no limitations on their ability to perform all related nursing functions.
