What is the NCLEX-RN Exam?

The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) is a standardized exam that nursing graduates must pass to obtain licensure and practice as registered nurses. The exam assesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities essential for safe and effective entry-level nursing practice.

NCLEX-RN Exam Structure

The NCLEX-RN utilizes a Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) format, which adjusts the difficulty of questions based on the test-taker's performance. The exam comprises various question types, including multiple-choice, multiple response, fill-in-the-blank, hot spots, and ordered response items.

Key Features:

• Number of Questions: The exam can present between 75 to 145 questions, depending on the candidate's performance.
• Time Limit: Candidates have up to 5 hours to complete the exam, which includes two optional short breaks.
• Question Types: The exam includes a variety of question formats to assess different cognitive levels.

NCLEX-RN Exam Content

The exam content is organized into four major categories, with some categories further divided into subcategories:

1. Safe and Effective Care Environment

• Management of Care: 17–23%
• Safety and Infection Control: 9–15%

2. Health Promotion and Maintenance: 6–12%
3. Psychosocial Integrity: 6–12%
4. Physiological Integrity

• Basic Care and Comfort: 6–12%
• Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies: 12–18%
• Reduction of Risk Potential: 9–15%
• Physiological Adaptation: 11–17%

These categories reflect the client needs framework, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of a candidate's readiness for entry-level nursing practice.

Next Generation NCLEX (NGN)

The Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) initiative enhances the exam's focus on assessing clinical judgment and decision-making skills. By incorporating real-world case studies and complex scenarios, the NGN aims to evaluate a nurse's ability to think critically and make sound decisions in various clinical situations.

Registration and Scheduling

To register for the NCLEX-RN:

1. Apply for Licensure: Submit an application to the nursing regulatory body (NRB) in the state or territory where you wish to practice.
2. Register with Pearson VUE: After receiving eligibility from your NRB, register for the exam through Pearson VUE.
3. Schedule Your Exam: Once you receive your Authorization to Test (ATT), schedule your exam appointment at a Pearson VUE test center.

For detailed information on the registration process, visit the NCLEX Scheduling Page.

Preparing for the NCLEX-RN Exam

Success on the NCLEX-RN requires thorough preparation. Here are some strategies to help you get ready:

• Understand the Test Plan: Review the NCLEX-RN Test Plan to familiarize yourself with the exam structure and content areas.
• Utilize Practice Questions: Engage with practice questions that mirror the exam's format to build confidence and identify areas needing improvement.
• Develop Test-Taking Strategies: Learn time management skills and techniques for approaching different question types.

For additional study resources and practice questions, explore our NCLEX-RN question bank.

Prepare for the NCLEX-RN Exam with Practice Questions

Achieving a high score on the NCLEX-RN exam requires effective preparation and familiarity with the exam format. Start practicing today with our comprehensive NCLEX-RN question bank.