OET Registration Guide · US Nurses
CGFNS OET Requirements for US VisaScreen
To obtain a VisaScreen® certificate through the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) for US immigration, international nurses must clear the Occupational English Test (OET) under specific score and test-format guidelines.
In short: What OET score is required for CGFNS?
CGFNS accepts the OET for VisaScreen® certification. International nurses must score at least 340 in Reading, 320 in Listening, 350 in Writing and 360 in Speaking. For combining results from more than one test date, check with CGFNS.
Key takeaways
- Reading and Listening: 340 in Reading and 320 in Listening.
- Writing and Speaking: 350 in Writing and 360 in Speaking.
- Combining: Check with CGFNS before relying on results from more than one sitting.
- In-Person Testing: Remote OET@Home results are not accepted for VisaScreen.
CGFNS OET requirement by sub-test
Nurses preparing for US VisaScreen certification must achieve the following minimum standard in each section:
| Sub-test | Required grade | Required score |
|---|---|---|
| Speaking | Grade B | 360 |
| Listening | Grade C+ | 320 |
| Reading | Grade C+ | 340 |
| Writing | Grade B | 350 |
Testing policies
To meet CGFNS standards, you must reach 340 in Reading, 320 in Listening, 350 in Writing and 360 in Speaking. If you are considering combining sub-test results from more than one test date, check with CGFNS first, because this page does not state a combining rule.
Additionally, CGFNS has strict criteria regarding remote testing. All OET sittings must be completed in-person at a physical test venue. OET@Home results are not accepted.
VisaScreen vs. State Boards of Nursing
It is vital to distinguish between federal immigration requirements and state licensure requirements:
- VisaScreen (Federal): The CGFNS VisaScreen® is required by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for your occupational visa (Green Card / H-1B). For this certificate, the OET scores above are universally accepted.
- State Boards of Nursing (State): To work as an RN, you must also be licensed by a specific US state board. While major states like Texas, Florida, and California accept OET, some states may require different minimum sub-scores, or may require a Credential Evaluation Service (CES) report which has separate criteria. Always verify with your target state board.
Writing is often the most challenging section for international nurses because OET tasks require specific clinical formatting and case note selection. The CGFNS Writing requirement is 350, and individual state boards may set their own English requirements for licensure. Practice letters and expert reviews can prevent retake costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What OET score is required for CGFNS VisaScreen?
Can I combine OET scores for CGFNS registration?
Does CGFNS accept OET@Home?
How long are OET scores valid for CGFNS?
Do all US state boards of nursing accept OET for licensing?
Official source: TruMerit (formerly CGFNS). Checked 10 October 2026. Regulators change their rules, so confirm on the official page before you book a test.
Working in the Gulf?
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The score you need depends on where you are registering, not where you work now. Pick your country and profession for the route from the Gulf.
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