Short answer
Not necessarily. The exam stops when it’s 95% confident you’re above or below the passing standard, which can happen at 85 questions for either result.
How NCLEX Scoring Works
The NCLEX is a computerized adaptive test: each answer shapes the difficulty of the next question. The exam stops when the computer is 95% confident your ability is above or below the passing standard, which can happen anywhere from question 85 to 150. If time runs out, the final ability estimate decides the result.
Good to know
Getting 85 questions or 150 questions doesn’t tell you whether you passed or failed. Try not to read anything into when the test shuts off.
USA NCLEX Exam: Quick Facts
- Developed by
- NCSBN (licenses issued by state boards of nursing)
- Versions
- NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN
- Questions
- 85–150 (computer adaptive)
- Time limit
- 5 hours, including breaks
- Case studies
- Next Generation NCLEX clinical judgment items
- Test centers
- Pearson VUE
Free practice test
Test what you know
Random questions, instant scoring and an explanation for every answer.
Start the USA NCLEX Exam practice test →More USA NCLEX Exam questions
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information. Rules, fees and procedures can change. Confirm the current requirements with the official agency listed in the sources. Read our editorial policy.