The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) is the nationally accepted examination for nurse licensure in the United States as well as Canada. NCLEX practice tests are a great way to prepare for your upcoming exam.
There are two types- the NCLEX-RN and the NCLEX-PN. After graduating from a certified nursing school, candidates will need to take the appropriate NCLEX in order to receive a nursing license.
The NCLEX-RN is for those intending to be a registered nurse, while the NCLEX-PN is for those intending to be a vocational or practical nurse.
Summary: Try a free NCLEX practice test below and see how you perform. For more help, check out our reviews of the best NCLEX prep courses.
Free NCLEX Practice Tests and Resources
| Resource | Notes | Provider |
| NCLEX Practice Exam | 49 questions available to help you prepare. | 4Tests |
| NCLEX-RN Practice Tests | This PDF contains hundreds of practice questions and answers. | JB Learning |
| NCLEX-RN Practice Test | 30 practice questions for the NCLEX-RN exam. | Exam Cram |
| NCLEX-PN Sample Questions | 150 NCLEX-PN questions. | Practical Nursing |
| NCLEX-RN Flashcards | 110+ flashcards to review for the NCLEX-RN exam. | Quizlet |
| NCLEX-PN Flashcards | 100+ flashcards to review for the NCLEX-PN exam. | Quizlet |
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NCLEX Exams Content Description
There are two forms of the National Council Licensure Examination. Much of the information below is identical between the two exams, with two key differences:
The job description of a registered nurse is larger in scope than a vocational or practical nurse, so the NCLEX-RN will have questions relating to topics that do not appear on the NCLEX-PN, such as management of parenteral nutrition and administration of blood products. Otherwise, many questions appear identically on both exams.
The distribution of like categories and subcategories is significantly different on both exams, to reflect the differences in job descriptions between RNs and PNs. Category and subcategory distribution is found at the bottom of each test description.
The NCLEX can be a very challenging exam. Make sure you are ready for the exam the first time around. For some more in-depth resources, check out our best NCLEX review courses.
NCLEX-PN Exam
The NCLEX-PN exam is required for those who intend to be licensed as a vocational or practical nurse. While quite similar, this exam has a bit smaller scope than the NCLEX-RN.
- The NCLEX-PN has between 75 and 145 questions
- Must be completed in 5 hours
The NCLEX-PN contains four specific “Client Needs” categories:
Safe and Effective Care Environment
A vocational or practical nurse is responsible for helping to create a healthcare environment which protects both healthcare personnel as well as clients. This is done primarily through two domains:
Coordinated Care- This refers to the collaboration between vocational or practical nurses with health care personnel in the interest of effective clinical care. Related content could include questions on these and other topics:
- Advocacy
- Client Rights
- Continuity of Care
- Ethical Practice
- Informed Consent
- Legal Responsibilities
- Resource Management
Safety and Infection Control - This refers to the contribution of the vocational or practical nurse in the interest of protecting clients as well as health care personnel from environmental and health hazards. Related content could include questions on these and other topics:
- Accident/Error/Injury Protection
- Ergonomic Principles
- Home Safety
- Safe Use of Equipment
- Security Plan
Health Promotion and Maintenance
The vocational or practical nurse will provide nursing care which incorporates a strong understanding of growth and development stage expectations, as well as early detection and prevention of health problems. Related content could include questions on these and other topics:
- The Aging Process
- Techniques for Data Collection
- High Risk Behaviors
- Lifestyle Choices
- Self-Care
Psychosocial Integrity
The vocational or practical nurse will provide nursing care which promotes and supports the mental, emotional, social, and mental well-being of the client. Related content could include questions on these and other topics:
- Neglect or Abuse
- Behavioral Management
- Chemical or Other Dependencies
- Coping Mechanisms
- Crisis Intervention
- Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity
- Grief of Loss
- Stress Management
- Support Systems
Physiological Integrity
The vocational or practical nurse will assist in promoting physical health and well-being. This is done by providing comfort and care, reducing any risk potential for health clients, and helping with management of any health alterations. This is done primarily through four domains:
Basic Care and Comfort - The vocational or practical nurse will provide comfort and assistance to clients in performing the activities of daily life. Related content could include questions on these and other topics:
- Assistive Devices
- Mobility/Immobility
- Nutrition and Oral Hydration
- Personal Hygiene
- Rest/Sleep
Pharmacological Therapies- The vocational or practical nurse will provide care involving administering medications as well as monitoring clients who receive parenteral therapy. Related content could include questions on these and other topics:
- Adverse Side Effects
- Dosage Calculations
- Expected Actions and Outcomes
- Medication Administration
- Pharmacological Pain Management
Reduction of Risk Potential - The vocational or practical nurse will reduce any potential for their clients to develop health problems or complications related to procedures, treatments, or existing conditions. Related content could include questions on these and other topics:
- Changes/Abnormalities Regarding Life Signs
- Diagnostic Tests
- Laboratory Values
- Potential Alterations in Body Systems
- Therapeutic Procedures
Physiological Adaptation - The vocational or practical nurse will participate in providing care for health care clients with chronic, acute, or life-threatening physical conditions. Related content could include questions on these and other topics:
- Alterations in Body Systems
- Basic Pathophysiology
- Fluid and Electrolyte Imbalances
- Medical Emergencies
- Unexpected Response to Therapies
NCLEX-PN Exam Summary
| Client Needs | Percentage of Test Items |
| Safe and Effective Care Environment | |
| Coordinated Care | 18-24% |
| Safety and Infection Control | 10-16% |
| Health Promotion and Maintenance | 6-12% |
| Psychosocial Integrity | 9-15% |
| Physiological Integrity | |
| Basic Care and Comfort | 7-13% |
| Pharmacological Therapies | 10-16% |
| Reduction of Risk Potential | 9-15% |
| Physiological Adaptation | 7-13% |
It is important to use the appropriate NCLEX practice test when studying for your NCLEX exam.
For more in-depth information, check out this official guide to the NCLEX-PN exam.
NCLEX-RN Exam
The NCLEX-RN exam is required for those who intend to be licensed as a registered nurse. While quite similar, this exam has a larger scope than the NCLEX-PN.
- The NCLEX-RN has between 75 and 145 questions
- Must be completed in 5 hours
The NCLEX-PN contains four specific “Client Needs” categories:
Safe and Effective Care Environment
A registered nurse helps to promote the achievement of client outcomes by directing and providing nursing care which enhances the care environment which protects clients as well as health care personnel. This is done primarily through two domains:
Management of Care - A nurse provides and directs nursing care which enhances the care environment in order to protect clients as well as health care personnel. Related content could include questions on these and other topics:
- Advocacy
- Case Management
- Client Rights
- Continuity of Care
- Ethical Practice
- Informed Consent
- Legal Responsibilities
Safety and Infection Control - This refers to the protection of clients as well as health care personnel from environmental and health hazards. Related content could include questions on these and other topics:
- Accident/Error/Injury Protection
- Ergonomic Principles
- Home Safety
- Safe Use of Equipment
- Security Plan
Health Promotion and Maintenance
The nurse will provide and direct nursing care which incorporates a strong understanding of growth and development stage expectations, as well as early detection and prevention of health problems. Related content could include questions on these and other topics:
- The Aging Process
- High Risk Behaviors
- Lifestyle Choices
- Physical Assessment Techniques
- Self-Care
Psychosocial Integrity
The nurse will provide and direct nursing care which promotes and supports the social, mental, and emotional well-being of clients with chronic or acute mental illness, as well as those who experience stressful events. Related content could include questions on these and other topics:
- Neglect or Abuse
- Behavioral Interventions
- Chemical or Other Dependencies
- Coping Mechanisms
- Crisis Intervention
- Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity
- Grief of Loss
- Stress Management
- Support Systems
Physiological Integrity
The nurse will promote physical health/wellness by providing comfort and care, which reduces client potential for risk and health alteration management. This is done primarily through four domains:
Basic Care and Comfort - The nurse will provide comfort and assistance to clients in performing the activities of daily life. Related content could include questions on these and other topics:
- Assistive Devices
- Mobility/Immobility
- Nutrition and Oral Hydration
- Personal Hygiene
- Rest/Sleep
Pharmacological Therapies - The nurse will provide care involving administering medications as well as monitoring clients who receive parenteral therapy. Related content could include questions on these and other topics:
- Adverse Side Effects
- Dosage Calculations
- Expected Actions and Outcomes
- Medication Administration
- Pharmacological Pain Management
Reduction of Risk Potential - The nurse will reduce any potential for their clients to develop health problems or complications related to procedures, treatments, or existing conditions. Related content could include questions on these and other topics:
- Changes/Abnormalities Regarding Life Signs
- Diagnostic Tests
- Laboratory Values
- Potential Alterations in Body Systems
- Therapeutic Procedures
Physiological Adaptation - The nurse will participate in providing care for health care clients with chronic, acute, or life-threatening physical conditions. Related content could include questions on these and other topics:
- Alterations in Body Systems
- Basic Pathophysiology
- Fluid and Electrolyte Imbalances
- Medical Emergencies
- Unexpected Response to Therapies
NCLEX-RN Exam Summary
| Client Needs | Percentage of Test Items |
| Safe and Effective Care Environment | |
| Management of Care | 17-23% |
| Safety and Infection Control | 9-15% |
| Health Promotion and Maintenance | 6-12% |
| Psychosocial Integrity | 6-12% |
| Physiological Integrity | |
| Basic Care and Comfort | 6-12% |
| Pharmacological Therapies | 12-18% |
| Reduction of Risk Potential | 9-15% |
| Physiological Adaptation | 11-17% |
It is important to use the appropriate NCLEX practice test when studying for your NCLEX exam.
For more in-depth information, check out thisofficial guide to the NCLEX-RN exam.
NCLEX Administration, Fees, and Requirements
- In order to register for the NCLEX, the candidate must first request a license/registration application from their nursing regulatory body (NRB)
- Application materials and licensing fees must be submitted to the NRB.
- The candidate may then register to take the NCLEX through Pearson Vue.
You can find more information and register for your NCLEX exams here.
NCLEX Test Fees
Fees for taking the NCLEX are charged according to the following fee schedule:
| Fee Type | Fee for US Licensure | Fee for Canadian Licensure |
| Registration Fee | $200 USD | $360 CAD |
| International Scheduling Additional Fee | $150 USD (add’l) | $150 CAD (add’l) |
| If BON/RB Needs to Be Changed | $50 USD (add’l) | $50 CAD (add’l) |
| Change RN/PN Exam Type | $50 USD (add’l) | N/A |
| Change Exam Language | N/A | $50 CAD |
| Licensure/Registration Fee | Contact NRB | Contact Regulatory Body |
NCLEX Requirements
Eligibility requirements will vary because each NRB has it’s own requirements for eligibility.
Contact your NRB to confirm your eligibility requirements. Be sure that you are enrolled in the correct exam (RN/PN) and have taken the appropriate NCLEX questions.
NCLEX Scores
- The NCLEX is a pass or fail exam. Although the score is calculated as you continue through the test, results will not be made immediately available.
- Exam results are forwarded to your NRB, and will be forwarded to the candidate approximately six weeks after completion of the exam.
The National Council Licensure Examination is an important step to obtaining your nursing license and beginning your career.
To register for your NCLEX and take the necessary steps, visit the official site to get started.
NCLEX FAQS
What are the types of NCLEX?
There are two types of NCLEX exams. The NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN. The NCLEX-RN is for those students who wish to become a registered nurse while the NCLEX-PN is for those students who wish to become a vocational or practical nurse.
How much does it cost to take the NCLEX?
The cost for US students to take the NCLEX exam is $200 while the cost for Canadian students is $360CAD. There are various additional fees that may be tacked on for special cases like an international scheduling fee.
What is a good NCLEX score?
The NCLEX is a pass or fail exam. In order for students to pass the exam, they will need to get at least 75 questions correct. The results will be passed on to your BON/RB and the student will see their results approximately 6 weeks after the exam.
Last Updated: 1/24/2022
FAQs
Is there a free practice NCLEX exam? ›
Sign up for a free practice test now, and take it whenever you're ready. Experience the NCLEX-RN® before test day with a realistic practice test. See how you'd score, and get a detailed report of your strengths and weaknesses.
How many questions do you have to get right on the NCLEX 2022? ›How the 2022 NCLEX is Scored. The NCLEX is scored using dichotomous scoring, so you can either pass or fail the exam. Currently, to pass the NCLEX-RN, the standard is 0.00 logits–or answer questions correctly at least 50% of the time.
Is the NCLEX exam changing in 2022? ›For now, the NCLEX is not changing, so if you are planning on taking the NCLEX before 2023, you can free up some brain space and not worry about what the Next Gen version will look like.
How do I study for NCLEX 2022? ›One way to prepare is by taking practice tests. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing offers NCLEX-RN Practice Exams on its website. Additionally, NCLEX study books usually come with access to several practice tests.
How can I pass the NCLEX for free? ›- Kaplan. Kaplan, an industry leader in test prep, offers free practice quizzes based on the content in the actual exam. ...
- Nurse Plus Academy. ...
- Mometrix. ...
- Union Test Prep NCLEX-RN Exam. ...
- Khan Academy NCLEX-RN Practice Questions. ...
- Varsity Tutors. ...
- Free NCLEX Questions. ...
- Nurse Labs Practice Exam.
- Start Studying for NCLEX as Soon as Possible. ...
- I Purchased Two Review Guides. ...
- Practice Review Questions, and Read Rationales. ...
- Be Sure to Select Alternate Format Question in the Software. ...
- I Switched Study Strategies the Last Week before NCLEX. ...
- Don't Wait Too Long to Take the NCLEX.
While it's possible to pass the NCLEX after answering all 145, it's also possible to pass the test with a minimum of 60 questions or any number in between. Keep in mind NCLEX has a time limit of five hours. If you haven't answered enough questions correctly when the clock runs out, you will fail the test.
Did I fail NCLEX 75 questions? ›Can I Fail the NCLEX at 75 Questions? To pass the NCLEX RN or PN, test takers must correctly answer at least 75 questions (the minimum amount). Unfortunately, that means you can also fail the exam within those 75 questions or items.
Can I pass NCLEX with 145 questions? ›Does 145 questions on NCLEX mean you failed? No, if you answer all 145 questions on the NCLEX, that does not mean you fail. In fact, if you answered 145 questions and each question was progressively more challenging, then that is a good sign that you passed.
Is 75 questions on NCLEX good? ›There's no need to worry just yet! The NCLEX is a pass/fail exam, so you won't know your score until you receive your results. However, the average passing rate for the NCLEX is around 85%, so you've got a pretty good chance of passing if you've made it to 75 questions.
How do you find out if you passed the NCLEX early? ›
Unfortunately, the only way to know for sure if you have passed the NCLEX is to wait for your official results.
What are considered hard questions on NCLEX? ›Each category of questions requires an increasing level of critical thinking skills. Analysis, synthesis and evaluation questions would be considered higher-level NCLEX questions. Synthesis questions are based on creating or proposing solutions, such as a plan of care.
Can I study for NCLEX in 2 weeks? ›Each day of the last 2 weeks should be intentionally planned out in detail. Devote 4 hours to test taking practice and 2 hours to review of the test results, including content remediation. Have rest or no-prep days scheduled to make sure you are taking care of yourself and not burning out.
How many hours a day should I study for NCLEX? ›While students differ in the amount that they can comfortably achieve in one day, previous success stories show that between three to four hours of studying each day is ideal. Your studying agenda should also describe when you will take practice exams.
How many questions do I need to practice before NCLEX? ›When studying for the NCLEX, a good idea is to set a practice question goal for yourself to observe and answer a certain amount of questions before exam day. We recommend that you complete about 2,800 practice questions before your exam.
How long should I study for NCLEX? ›How Long Should You Study for the NCLEX? To pass the NCLEX, students should plan to spend a minimum of 1-2 months studying.
How do I study for NCLEX in one month? ›- Develop your NCLEX study guide.
- Review NCLEX exam questions and materials regularly.
- Take NCLEX practice tests.
- Practice self-regulation techniques.
Many people take the NCLEX after prepping with ATI, but pass the NCLEX with 75 questions. The “passing rate” on NCLEX is adaptive, but many state that if you pass at least 50-60% of the questions on ATI test banks, then you will pass the NCLEX.
How many people pass NCLEX with 75 questions? ›If the NCLEX shuts off at 75 questions, you likely passed the NCLEX. I say this because over 80% of nursing students will pass the NCLEX their first time.
What does it mean if NCLEX shuts off at 75? ›Those 15 questions represented 20% of your test so they seem like a large portion. For the NCLEX- RN to shut off at 75 means you either did very well or very bad. It only fails an tester at 75 if they are unable to correctly answer more than a few questions in a row.
How many people pass NCLEX first time? ›
The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) reports 13.43% of NCLEX-RN candidates fail the exam on their first attempt. The number of unsuccessful test-takers is low compared to the more than 86% who pass the exam on their first try.
What does it mean if you get all 145 questions on NCLEX? ›If you end up answering the full 145 questions, that is an indication that you're close to the passing standard and the computer is going to keep giving you questions until you've reached the full number of possible questions.
Is NCLEX scored twice? ›Double Checking Your Results
For quality control purposes, every NCLEX is scored twice; once by the computer at the test center and then after the exam record has been transmitted to Pearson VUE.
A common myth about Select All That Applies (SATA) questions is that if you get a lot of them on your test, you're definitely passing. Again, this is definitely not true—and it's actually very subjective.
What if my last NCLEX question was easy? ›The Last Question on NCLEX was Easy. What Does it Mean? If the last question on the NCLEX was easy, it means you got a question that was easy or a topic you knew very well. While that could be a sign you passed, you won't know for sure until the official results are available.
What happens if you fail the NCLEX 3 times? ›If they fail, they'll need to wait 45 days before retesting. After failing three times, though, they'll need to complete a board-approved remediation program before the next retake. Candidates have six attempts to pass in total.
Does the last question on NCLEX determine pass or fail? ›If the last question is below the level of difficulty needed to pass, the candidate fails. If the last question is above the level of difficulty needed to pass, the candidate passes.
Can the NCLEX shut off at 60 questions? ›So, a test-taker can pass or fail the NCLEX-RN/PN with 60 questions, 145 questions, or any number in between.
Do most people feel like they failed the NCLEX? ›Almost everybody who takes the NCLEX exam is unsure whether they passed or failed when they finish. This exam stands between you and your goal of being a nurse. Without it, you can't practice. That's a lot of pressure, and it's normal to feel anxious while waiting for the official results.
Can you get NCLEX results in 24 hours? ›The NCLEX Quick Results are computer generated and available approximately forty-eight hours business hours after testing. Although results are not generated on non-business days, you may access them on any day after the first two business days.
How long does it take to get NCLEX results 2022? ›
Official results are ONLY available through your NRB and will be sent to you approximately six weeks after the exam. Do NOT call NCSBN, Pearson VUE NCLEX Candidate Services or the test center for results.
What level are priority questions on NCLEX? ›What are NCLEX Priority Questions? Priority questions are designed to test your conceptual comprehension. They are generally written at the analysis level, meaning you'll need to analyze the choices and apply your knowledge in order to answer the question correctly.
How much does the NCLEX practice exam cost? ›| Voucher Type | Exam Group | Exam Price |
|---|---|---|
| NCSBN Practice Exam 100% pre-paid voucher | NCLEX-PN | 150.00 |
| NCSBN Practice Exam 100% pre-paid voucher | NCLEX-RN | 150.00 |
| NCSBN Practice Exam 100% pre-paid voucher | NCLEX – RN-French Canadian | 150.00 |
| NPNL – NLN 100% Discount | NCLEX-RN & NCLEX-PN | 150.00 |
When studying for the NCLEX, a good idea is to set a practice question goal for yourself to observe and answer a certain amount of questions before exam day. We recommend that you complete about 2,800 practice questions before your exam.
How do I pass the NCLEX on the first try? ›- Understand the NCLEX Format. ...
- Don't Self-Evaluate During the Test. ...
- Find Ways to Manage Your Test Stress. ...
- Know Your NLCEX Study Style. ...
- Make a Study Plan. ...
- Don't Draw from Past Clinical or Work Experiences. ...
- Hone Your Test-Taking Skills. ...
- Invest in Test Prep Resources.
While it's possible to pass the NCLEX after answering all 145, it's also possible to pass the test with a minimum of 60 questions or any number in between. Keep in mind NCLEX has a time limit of five hours. If you haven't answered enough questions correctly when the clock runs out, you will fail the test.
What are considered hard questions on NCLEX? ›Each category of questions requires an increasing level of critical thinking skills. Analysis, synthesis and evaluation questions would be considered higher-level NCLEX questions. Synthesis questions are based on creating or proposing solutions, such as a plan of care.
Can you still pass NCLEX with 145 questions? ›Answering all 145 questions on the NCLEX-RN alone does not mean you failed the exam. However, with each correct answer you provide, the test should give you a question that becomes increasingly more difficult than the previous one.
Can I study for NCLEX in 2 weeks? ›Each day of the last 2 weeks should be intentionally planned out in detail. Devote 4 hours to test taking practice and 2 hours to review of the test results, including content remediation. Have rest or no-prep days scheduled to make sure you are taking care of yourself and not burning out.
Can you fail NCLEX in 75? ›Can I Fail the NCLEX at 75 Questions? To pass the NCLEX RN or PN, test takers must correctly answer at least 75 questions (the minimum amount). Unfortunately, that means you can also fail the exam within those 75 questions or items.
Is 3 weeks enough to study for NCLEX? ›
Yep, your plan sounds pretty good. Just keep practicing those questions you're doing. I gave myself 3 weeks to prepare for NCLEX and everything worked out well.
Which state NCLEX is the easiest? ›- #1 Connecticut. ...
- #2 Montana. ...
- #3 New York. ...
- #4 Northern Mariana Islands. ...
- #5 South Dakota.
For most students, taking the NCLEX in the morning is best because you're more fresh and likely to do better. But, if you're more likely to run late or you're not a morning person, then consider scheduling it in the afternoon. The only NCLEX prep you'll need.
How many hours a day should I study for NCLEX? ›While students differ in the amount that they can comfortably achieve in one day, previous success stories show that between three to four hours of studying each day is ideal. Your studying agenda should also describe when you will take practice exams.
What topics should I study for NCLEX? ›- Basic Care and Comfort. ...
- Health Promotion and Maintenance. ...
- Management of Care. ...
- Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies. ...
- Physiological Adaptation. ...
- Psychosocial Integrity. ...
- Reduction of Risk Potential. ...
- Safety and Infection Control.
Tiny details won't really help you during NCLEX. You just have to know your basics and work from there. That is right its impossible to know everything because they know that were taking the test for entry level nurse.