Frequently Asked QuestionsGet Answers to Common NCLEX Questions

Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) FAQs

Where can I find more information about the NCLEX and Next Generation NCLEX item types?
What should a candidate expect when they see an NCLEX Highlight item?
When will the new exam format go in effect?
Where can I get more information on the Next Generation NCLEX (NGN)?
What are NGN case study and stand-alone items?
What are the benefits of implementing new scoring methods?
When will the new scoring methods go into effect?
Are traditional NCLEX Multiple Response Select all that Apply items scored with partial credits in the new 2023 NCLEX with NGN items?
Are candidates able to test with accommodations for the new 2023 NCLEX with NGN items?
What changes in the NCLEX Test Plans were made with the launch of the Next Generation NCLEX (NGN)?
Are items in case studies dependent on the correct response to a prior item in the same set?
Do items provide the candidate with normal reference ranges?
Why did NCSBN change the NCLEX?
What standards does NCSBN use when developing a new test?
How does NCSBN define Clinical Judgment for purposes of a Next Generation NCLEX (NGN)?
What role did nurses play in Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) research?
What is the composition of item writing and review panels?
What research was conducted to validate the new item types?
Did NCSBN work with test preparation and publishing companies to develop questions?
When did the new NCLEX format go in effect?
How can educators prepare students?
Will the cost of the exam change?
What are the benefits of implementing new scoring methods?
How can educators prepare their students for the new scoring methods?
Are Multiple Response Select all that Apply items be scored with partial credits in the NGN exam?
Does NCSBN offer or recommend any tools or resources that allow educators to create their own NGN-style items and case studies?

Taking the NCLEX

What are the eligibility requirements for taking the NCLEX?
How do I register for the NCLEX?
How do I go about making a change to my registration with Pearson VUE?
I have registered for the NCLEX, when will I get my Authorization to Test (ATT) email?
Can I take the NCLEX at a test center outside of my desired jurisdiction of licensure/registration?
What forms of identification are accepted at the test center?
Which names need to match on my ID and the ATT?
Does the address on my ID need to match the address on my ATT?
When will I get my results?
Will I lose my NCLEX registration fee if I cannot cancel my appointment at least 24-hours ahead of time?
May I get a refund for any NCLEX fees?
Can you recommend review courses and/or study materials to help me prepare for the NCLEX?
How can I lodge a concern at the test center?
Is there a separate NCLEX-RN for Canadians and Australians?
What reference materials are available in French?

How the NCLEX Works

Can a candidate skip questions?
Is it true that candidates who receive the minimum number of items and the last item is "easy" will fail the examination?
If a candidate fails the exam after taking the minimum number of items, does this mean they did very poorly?
When candidates retake the exam do they start at the same difficulty/ability level 'where they left off' from the previous examination?
On the Candidate Performance Report (CPR), what does 'Near the Passing Standard' mean statistically?
Why do candidates only get performance reports if they fail?

What the Exam Looks Like

Will students have exams that focus on nursing specialties?
How does the NCLEX address terminology differences between jurisdictions using the NCLEX?
Does the NCLEX bold key words in items?
Does NCSBN use generic and trade names on items with medications?
Is there a 'need to know' list of drugs for the NCLEX?
Which units of measurement will be used with lab values on the NCLEX exam?
What is an integrated process?
At what cognitive level is the NCLEX written?
What is the readability level of the NCLEX?
Are NCLEX item banks rotated?
What item formats are on the exam?
Is there a certain percentage of different item formats on the NCLEX?
How are items scored?
Do calculation items have a decimal place?
When should a candidate round a calculation item?
Can candidates answer an item and move to the next item even if they did not open all of the exhibit tabs?

Creating the NCLEX & Passing Standard

How do you keep up with current practice with questions in the pool and how often are they reviewed?
How is the NCLEX translated?
What is the definition of the ‘entry-level nurse’?
Does the practice analysis include nurses from all jurisdictions using the NCLEX?
How do the results of the practice analysis translate to a new test plan?
Can you explain more about the panel processes including representation, qualification requirements and the recruitment process for entry-level nurses?
What is the rationale behind the criteria for item writers and reviewers?
What is the timeline for evaluating the NCLEX passing standards?
How will the change in the passing standard affect the pass rate?

Preparing Students for the NCLEX

What can nursing schools do to prepare for the NCLEX exam? Is there anything educators should be doing to assist students?
What information will schools receive regarding the school’s candidates’ performance?
How do I get information on workshops for item writing in my area?

COVID-19 Impact

Why was my NCLEX appointment unscheduled?
Am I required to wear a face mask or prove vaccination status?
If my acceptable identification (ID) has expired, am I able to test?