DIY vs NEAC: Which is Faster for Your NCLEX Application? Let’s Break It Down

For nurses dreaming of becoming a USRN, passing the NCLEX is a life-changing milestone. But before you can take the exam, there’s a critical first step: the application and licensing process.

This is where many nurses face a big decision — should they do it themselves (DIY) or work with a professional licensing expert like NEAC?

On paper, DIY might seem cheaper and "doable." But when it comes to time, efficiency, and peace of mind, the difference is massive. Let’s break down the reality of processing time when you choose DIY vs NEAC.

DIY NCLEX Processing: Slower Than You Think

Average timeline: 6 to 12 months (sometimes even longer)

Why so long? Here are the main reasons:

1️. Confusion about state requirements

Each US state has different application steps. Missing a detail or choosing the wrong state often means having to start over, which adds months to your timeline.

2. Incomplete or incorrect documents

When you do it yourself, you’re more likely to:

• Submit incomplete forms

• Miss notarizations

• Have incorrect transcript formats

These mistakes can lead to rejections or requests for resubmission, delaying your application by weeks or months each time.

3. Slow communication and follow-ups

Coordinating with nursing schools, credentialing agencies, and state boards (sometimes in different time zones) can be overwhelming and slow if you’re handling it alone. And if you are doing this while you are practicing or reviewing for the exam, you will likely burn-out.

4. No guidance on "fast-track" options

Without experience, you miss out on strategies like choosing the fastest state board, or knowing when and how to endorse a license to another state later.

NEAC Processing: Fast, Guided, Hassle-Free

Average timeline: 3 to 6 months

Why is NEAC faster?

✅ The #1 NCLEX and Medical Licensing Support Globally

NEAC pioneered and revolutionized the NCLEX Exam Application and Licensing with over 18 years of experience, and has helped more than 80,000 nurses get licensed internationally. The company is the most trusted licensing partner and the first to be recognized by the nursing boards all across 50 US States, including countries like Australia and New Zealand where NCLEX are required. Therefore, you can expect a VIP treatment if you go through them.

✅ Expert state board selection

NEAC reviews your background and goals and recommends the best state for your application — not only based on requirements, but also on which state boards currently have faster processing times.

✅ Guaranteed complete documentation

NEAC’s team checks every document, prepares them properly, and ensures everything meets the exact requirements of the state board. No guesswork. No rejected forms. No wasted time.

✅ Proactive coordination

NEAC handles the follow-up with schools, credentialing agencies (like CGFNS or CES), and state boards. This professional-level coordination significantly speeds up your application.

✅ Latest updates & insider tips

Licensing experts constantly monitor changes in processing times, exam eligibility rules, and board policies but because its NEAC, they get the news first— so you’re always on the most efficient path. 

But what about the cost?

While DIY might appear "cheaper" upfront, every mistake costs you time and money:

• Re-evaluation fees

• Additional courier costs

• Extra credentialing charges

• Lost months of potential US RN salary (which can be $4,000–$6,000 per month!)

With NEAC, you invest once to avoid these hidden costs — and often end up saving in the long run.

The bottom line: Time is money — and momentum

When you’re aiming to work abroad, time is critical. Every month of delay is a month you’re not earning a US salary or building your new life.

Choosing NEAC means:

• Faster approval

• Faster NCLEX eligibility

• Faster move to the US

• Faster start to your nursing dream

Don’t let paperwork slow your goals

If you’re serious about becoming a USRN, avoid the months of frustration and hidden costs of DIY. Let NEAC handle the licensing maze for you, so you can focus on what matters most: preparing for and passing the NCLEX.

Ready to speed up your journey?

Apply with NEAC — your expert partner in fast, reliable NCLEX processing.