The NCLEX-RN is the licensing exam for registered nurses in the United States, and it is also used in Canada. It checks whether you can practise safely as a new nurse.
Quick Summary
- The NCLEX-RN is a computerized adaptive test. It chooses each question based on your earlier answers and stops when it is confident you are above or below the passing standard. Since April 2023 it has used the Next Generation NCLEX format, which focuses on clinical judgment.
How the adaptive exam works
The exam starts with a question near the passing standard. If you answer correctly, the next question is a little harder. If you answer incorrectly, it is a little easier. The test ends when the computer can decide, with confidence, whether you passed.
This is why two candidates can finish after a different number of questions. Stopping early does not tell you whether you passed or failed.
Next Generation NCLEX question types
The current exam uses case studies and new item types that test clinical judgment: recognising cues, analysing them, deciding on actions and evaluating outcomes.
- Case studies with several questions about one patient
- Matrix and grid questions
- Drag-and-drop and highlight questions
- Bow-tie questions that link a condition, actions and things to monitor
How to register
- Apply for licensure with the board of nursing (or regulator) where you want to work.
- Register for the exam with Pearson VUE.
- Wait for your Authorization to Test (ATT).
- Book your test date and centre.
Pro Tip: Build a study plan around practice questions in the new formats, and review why each answer is right or wrong.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Internationally educated nurses apply through a board of nursing or regulator first. Each one sets its own document and education checks.
Your official result comes from the board of nursing or regulator. Some offer unofficial quick results through Pearson VUE for a fee.
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