(a) A citizen of a country other than the United States who has completed a full course of mortuary science at a commission-approved college in this state may take the commission examination in embalming, funeral directing, or both after:
(1) applying to the commission; and
(2) paying the examination fee required of other applicants.
(b) The commission may award the applicant a certificate of merit if the applicant successfully makes the minimum grades required of other applicants. The certificate of merit does not authorize the holder of the certificate to practice embalming or funeral directing in this state unless the holder is otherwise licensed as an embalmer or funeral director under this chapter.