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
How many practice questions should I do 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 many questions do you need to answer correctly to pass 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.
How do I get all the NCLEX questions right? ›- Read the whole question. ...
- Ask yourself first. ...
- Think about the types. ...
- Focus on each question answer. ...
- Decide if the answers are wrong, right, and possible. ...
- Rank your correct and possible options. ...
- Reread the question after choosing “finalists” ...
- Make a decision and don't look back.
The NCLEX-RN has a minimum of 75 questions and a maximum of 145, and you have five hours to complete the exam. If the maximum amount of time has elapsed and you have not answered the minimum number of questions, this indicates you failed the NCLEX in 2022.
How many NCLEX practice questions should I do a day? ›Plan to study no more than 4 – 5 hours per day, and to complete between 50 – 150 questions per day.
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.
What percentage is passing on NCLEX 2022? ›The recently published NCLEX statistics for the first quarter of 2022 by the NCSBN show that the overall number of U.S.-educated NCLEX-RN candidates increased from 58,148 to 63,836 compared to the same period last year. However, there was a decreased passing percentage from 77.19% to 74.39%.
How do you know 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 percentage do you need on NCLEX to pass? ›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.
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.
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.
Are priority questions passing level on NCLEX? ›If you were able to get priority questions, then you are near the passing mark. If you were given TRIAGE or more difficult questions towards the end of the exam, then you might have surpassed the passing level.
Did I fail NCLEX if I got 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 NCLEX shutting off at 75 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.
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.
Is UWorld enough to pass NCLEX? ›For many students, UWorld is enough for them to pass the NCLEX. With an almost 100% pass rate, it's pretty clear that students successfully use the UWorld NCLEX prep to prepare them for the National Council Licensure Examination.
Is a month long enough to 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 many hours should I study a day 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.
How far in advance should you study for the NCLEX? ›The smartest thing you can do is to start preparing for the NCLEX 6–12 months before exam day. That preparation begins by developing a study plan.
Can you study for NCLEX in 30 days? ›When should you Schedule the NCLEX? The ideal time you need to study is about 30 days or 1 month. Having a month gives you enough time to review everything you need while at the same time not so long that you risk burning out before the actual test date.
How many questions should I do for NCLEX? ›
And it is! But the key to NCLEX success is answering questions, not studying content. You should also aim to get plenty of other Qbank practice with realistic, NCLEX-style questions that include complete explanations—but we recommend taking no more than 150 Qbank questions per day to avoid burnout.
How many Uworld questions should I do before NCLEX? ›So I would recommend to get Uworld early and do 10 questions for each day when you relax or just get exposed to the questions. I normally did 10 questions on my bed before I go to sleep. So I could finish all 2000+ questions 1 week before NCLEX day.
How many hours a day should you study for the 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 should I do the day before NCLEX? ›The day before the NCLEX exam, or any big test for that matter, one should be mentally and physically preparing themselves. This means making sure to have a good night's rest and waking up early in the morning to eat a healthy and balanced breakfast before the exam. You also want to avoid alcohol and caffeine.
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.
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.
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 pass NCLEX with just UWorld? ›Yes, absolutely! Uworld NCLEX questions are a solid set of questions to use with your NCLEX prep! Just make sure to review content before doing the questions.
Is UWorld harder than NCLEX 2022? ›Yes, Uworld is harder than NCLEX. According to a recent survey, 90% of students found that Uworld was as difficult or more difficult than the actual NCLEX test. Uworld is the test prep for the NCLEX exam, as well as the SAT, ACT, MCAT, and USMILE.
What percent do you need on UWorld to pass NCLEX? ›Learners with an average QBank score of 56% pass the NCLEX at a 92% rate. While your average UWorld QBank score gives you important information, studying each question's explanation is the most valuable way to spend your time.
How do you know 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.
How do you know if you pass NCLEX? ›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 is mostly on the NCLEX? ›The NCLEX-RN® is composed of primarily multiple-choice, four-option, text-based questions written at the application/analysis level of difficulty. These questions may include charts, tables, or graphic images. There are three components of an NCLEX-RN® exam multiple-choice question.
Is it better to take NCLEX in the morning or afternoon? ›In general, it's recommended that you take the NCLEX in the morning so your mind is the most “fresh,” but everyone is different—schedule your test for the time you will be at your best.
How fast do you get NCLEX results? ›Exam results are available only from your nursing regulatory body (NRB) and will be sent to you approximately six weeks after taking the exam. Do not call Pearson VUE NCLEX Candidate Services, the test centers or NCSBN for exam results.
How soon can you get NCLEX quick results? ›Some candidates may access their "unofficial" results two business days after taking their exam*. The NCLEX results in the Quick Results Service do not authorize you to practice as a licensed/registered nurse.