What it is
The NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination, from NCSBN) is the exam you must pass to become a licensed nurse after graduating from an approved nursing program. There are two versions — NCLEX-RN (registered nurse) and NCLEX-PN (practical/vocational nurse). Since April 2023 it's the “Next Generation NCLEX” (NGN), which added case studies that test clinical judgment.
Format & structure
The NCLEX is computer-adaptive — it adjusts question difficulty to your ability and is variable length (the NCLEX-RN runs roughly 85 to 150 items). The NGN adds case studies and new item types (extended multiple response, drag-and-drop, cloze, etc.) built around the Clinical Judgment Measurement Model. Content follows NCSBN's test plan across the Client Needs categories (management of care, safety, health promotion, psychosocial and physiological integrity).
How it's scored
The NCLEX is Pass/Fail — there's no numeric score. The adaptive engine determines, with statistical confidence, whether your ability is above the passing standard. You find out you've met (or not met) the standard; unofficial results may be available quickly, official ones through your board.
Registration & cost
After graduating, apply for licensure with your state board of nursing and register for the NCLEX with Pearson VUE (the exam fee is about $200, plus board fees). You'll receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) and schedule at a Pearson VUE center.
Test dates & timing
Offered year-round by appointment at Pearson VUE centers. There are limits and waiting periods on retakes if you don't pass; check NCSBN's retake policy.
How to prepare
- Use NGN-aligned prepMake sure materials match the 2023+ Next Generation format and current test plan
- Practice clinical judgmentThe case studies reward reasoning through patient scenarios, not just recall
- Do lots of practice questions with rationalesLearning why answers are right/wrong is the core method
- Time it rightMost students prep intensively in their final months of school or just after
Strategies & tips
- Trust the adaptive modelHard questions mean you're doing well — don't panic
- Prioritize safety and management of careHeavily weighted categories
- Answer with the nursing processAssess before acting; safety first
- Pace steadilyLength varies — keep a consistent rhythm
How scores are used
Passing the NCLEX (plus your board's other requirements) grants your nursing license to practice as an RN or LPN. It's a required gateway — programs also track NCLEX pass rates as a quality measure. It's not used for admissions or grades; it's strictly licensure.
Accommodations & support
Accommodations for documented disabilities are arranged through your state board of nursing and Pearson VUE — request them during the application process.
Frequently asked questions
- Is the NCLEX scored?No — it's Pass/Fail, computer-adaptive.
- How long is it?Variable — the NCLEX-RN can be roughly 85–150 items depending on your performance.
- What changed in 2023?The Next Generation NCLEX added clinical-judgment case studies and new item types.
- When do I take it?After graduating from an approved nursing program and applying for licensure.
- What if I fail?You can retake after a waiting period, subject to NCSBN and board limits.
Key facts
- WhatNursing licensure exam (NCSBN)
- VersionsNCLEX-RN · NCLEX-PN
- FormatComputer-adaptive; Next Gen (NGN) since 2023
- LengthVariable (RN ~85–150 items)
- ResultPass/Fail
- Required forRN / LPN licensure
Where to learn more
Confirm current details with the official source and your board: