Michigan Language Assessment is proud to announce that MET is now accepted by the state boards of nursing in Alaska, Illinois, and Missouri adding to the exponential growth in MET healthcare recognition over the past two years. These are three states that represent distinct but equally important options for internationally educated nurses.
The inclusion of Missouri is especially significant because it is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), a multi-state agreement that allows nurses to hold one license and practice across participating states. For international nurses, this means that earning licensure in Missouri using MET opens opportunities within Missouri, which is experiencing a shortage of Licensed Practical Nurses, as well as in 40 other states. As demand for nurses continues to rise nationwide, this added portability makes Missouri a strategic entry point into the U.S. healthcare system.
Alaska and Illinois, on the other hand, are not part of the NLC, which means nurses must apply for a separate license to practice. Still, the acceptances of MET represent a breakthrough. Illinois is home to a vast and diverse population with major urban healthcare networks and an urgent need for qualified professionals. In fact, Chicago is ranked third for areas with the highest employment for registered nurses. Alaska is a key state for nurses attracted to its professional opportunities and high income – consistently ranked in the top 5 for salary – as well as natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
By embracing MET, the Boards of Nursing are offering test takers more flexibility in how they demonstrate their English proficiency.
“Adding Alaska, Illinois, and Missouri to the list of states that accept MET is a major step forward,” said Julie Monteiro de Castro, MPP, senior business development and recognition manager at Michigan Language Assessment. “It signals growing trust in MET as a reliable, flexible solution for evaluating English proficiency in high-stakes professional settings. And we are thrilled to help improve flows of qualified nurses to states experiencing staffing shortages.”
The timing of these decisions is also crucial. The U.S. continues to struggle with a persistent nursing shortage, with projections estimating nearly 200,000 job openings for registered nurses each year through 2032. For many international applicants, navigating licensure requirements has historically been a barrier to entry. Expanding recognition of MET lowers that barrier, making it easier for skilled professionals to contribute where they’re needed most.
“Our goal is to support healthcare systems by making it easier for qualified nurses to begin their careers in the U.S.,” said Dr. Fernando Fleurquin, special advisor for government relations and education at Michigan Language Assessment. “The acceptance of MET by 34 state boards of nursing demonstrates a clear shift toward more inclusive, accessible testing options.”
With these new states now on board, a total of 34 U.S. state boards of nursing accept MET as proof of English proficiency, solidifying its role as a trusted pathway for international nurses seeking licensure.
To learn more about how the MET supports healthcare licensure in the U.S., visit our MET for healthcare page.