Depending on your level of education, you can either take the NCLEX-PN® (practical nurse) or the NCLEX-RN® (registered nurse) examination. Those who obtain a diploma in licensed practical nursing or licensed vocational nursing can take the NCLEX-PN® exam. Those who have completed an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) can take the NCLEX-RN® exam.
NCLEX® Exam FAQs
NO. Only those who obtain a diploma in licensed practical nursing or licensed vocational nursing can take the NCLEX-PN® exam. Those who have completed an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) can take the NCLEX-RN® exam.
You have up to four hours to complete the RN and PN exams. Total exam time includes a short tutorial, two optional breaks, and any unscheduled breaks you may take. The first optional break is offered after two hours of testing
In the past, NCLEX® questions were multiple choice. Now, 90% of the questions continue to be multiple choice. Questions come in three levels. Level 1: General knowledge, typically as multiple choice. Level 2: Analysis and application, which may or may not be multiple choice. Level 3: Require you to apply facts, processes and rules in answer them. These questions are open questions. About 90% of the exam is made up of level 2 and 3 questions.
According to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, in 2017, the first-attempt NCLEX® pass rate for U.S.-educated nursing students was 87%. The second-attempt pass rate for domestically-educated students taking the test was 45.56%. These results show it’s a difficult test for many.
To take the NCLEX® exam, you must first ask your state board of nursing to be licensed. If they believe you have the necessary skills to become a nurse in the state, they will put you forward for the NCLEX® examination. To confirm your place, you will receive the Authorization to Take the Test (ATT) letter.
In 2020, the cost of an NCLEX® exam is $200.
YES! It’s a very hard test. At RN Boot Camp, we’ll teach you test strategies that can help you pass the test, even if you’ve failed many times. Click here for some of our tips.