The NCLEX exam is the licensing exam every nursing graduate must pass to work as a registered nurse (NCLEX-RN) or practical/vocational nurse (NCLEX-PN) in the USA. It is developed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and uses computerized adaptive testing (CAT).
This guide explains the Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) format, how scoring works, what’s on the test plan and how to study. Then sharpen your clinical judgment with the free NCLEX practice test.
Key takeaways
- Adaptive exam: 85 to 150 questions, with a 5-hour time limit that includes breaks.
- Includes Next Generation case studies that measure clinical judgment.
- The test ends when it is 95% confident you are above or below the passing standard.
- The number of questions you get doesn’t tell you whether you passed.
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
What Is the NCLEX Exam?
After graduating from an approved nursing program, you apply for licensure with your state board of nursing and register with Pearson VUE. When the board confirms your eligibility, you receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) and can schedule your exam.
More on What Is the NCLEX Exam →NCLEX Exam Format (Next Generation NCLEX)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Length | 85 minimum, 150 maximum questions |
| Time | 5 hours, including the tutorial and optional breaks |
| Question types | Multiple choice, select-all-that-apply, matrix, drag-and-drop, highlight, bow-tie and more |
| Case studies | Unfolding NGN case studies that test clinical judgment |
| Scoring | Some NGN items give partial credit |
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.
NCLEX Test Plan: Client Needs Categories
- Safe and Effective Care Environment: Management of Care; Safety and Infection Control
- Health Promotion and Maintenance
- Psychosocial Integrity
- Physiological Integrity: Basic Care and Comfort; Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies; Reduction of Risk Potential; Physiological Adaptation
Management of Care and Pharmacological Therapies are among the most heavily weighted areas. Check NCSBN’s current test plan for exact percentages.
More on NCLEX Test Plan: Client Needs Categories →How to Study for the NCLEX
- Study for 4–8 weeks after graduation with a daily question routine.
- Prioritize: use ABCs (airway, breathing, circulation), Maslow and safety to choose the “first” action.
- Master pharmacology: antidotes, lab values and high-alert medications.
- Practice NGN case studies to build clinical judgment.
- Review every rationale. Our NCLEX practice test shows explanations in practice mode.
Working in behavioral health? Also review the mental status exam, which often shows up in psychiatric nursing questions.
More on How to Study for the NCLEX →NCLEX Practice Questions
Our free NCLEX practice exam covers NCLEX-RN and PN topics: management of care, safety and infection control, pharmacology, and physiological adaptation. Every question has a rationale. After you pass, experienced ICU nurses often pursue the CCRN exam.
More on NCLEX Practice Questions →Free practice test
Ready to test yourself?
Choose your test length, practice with instant feedback or take it exam-style, and get your score with an explanation for every answer.
Go to the USA NCLEX Exam practice test →USA NCLEX Exam FAQs
How many questions are on the NCLEX?
Between 85 and 150. It’s a computerized adaptive test, so the number depends on how you answer.
Full answer →How long is the NCLEX exam?
You have up to 5 hours, including the tutorial and optional breaks.
Full answer →Does getting 85 questions mean I passed?
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.
Full answer →What is the Next Generation NCLEX?
The current version of the NCLEX, launched in April 2023. It adds case studies and new item types that measure clinical judgment, and some items give partial credit.
Full answer →How soon do I get NCLEX results?
Official results come from your state board of nursing. Some boards offer unofficial “quick results” for a fee about two business days after the exam.
Full answer →Official sources
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.