You’ve completed nursing school, but there’s still one more obstacle to clear before you can get your license and start practising. Even if you’ve always been a good student, passing the NCLEX might be a difficult undertaking. But don’t worry, we’ve taken care of everything in this blog. This blog will offer you all the information that you’ll need to pass the NCLEX exam. So, don’t wait any longer and read this blog to help yourself with all the information.
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What is the NCLEX Exam?
The NCLEX exam, also known as the National Council Licensure Examination, is a standardised exam that every state regulatory board uses to determine whether or not a candidate is competent to become a nurse. There are two types of NCLEX tests, both of which are administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, and which one you take depends on the job you want to pursue.
- NCLEX-PN: The entry-level of licensed nursing occupations is practical or vocational nurses (LPNs/LVNs—the titles are interchangeable in different states).
- NCLEX-RN: For registered nurses (RNs) with advanced training and responsibilities.
Process of the NCLEX Exam
To apply and prepare for the NCLEX exam, there is a certain process that one should follow during their journey. In this section, check out the process of the NCLEX Exam as a potential candidate:
- Apply to the Nursing Regulatory Board (NRB).
- Register with Pearson VUE.
- Authorise the test.
- You can schedule your exam appointment.
- Pursue the test.
- Processing of test results.
Also Read: How to Become a Nurse?
Eligibility Criteria for the NCLEX Exam
To apply for the NCLEX exam, you should be eligible under the following criteria. Here, we have mentioned the eligibility criteria for the NCLEX exam:
- A bachelor’s degree in nursing from any school is required.
- ATT is required (Authorisation To Test)
- Fill in the blanks with your qualifications and personal information.
- Register with Pearson Vue and apply to the Nursing or Regulatory Board, and take the NCLEX
- Application fees
How to Register For The NCLEX Exam?
Now that you’ve decided to take the NCLEX, the following step is to register or apply for the exam. The steps for registering for the NCLEX, as well as some helpful hints, are as follows:
Step 1: Application to the Nursing Regulatory Board (NRB)
The first step in the registration procedure is to submit an application to the state board of nursing in the state where you want to practice nursing. Inquire with your state’s board of nursing about the specific registration process, as regulations may differ.
Step 2: Registration with Pearson VUE
Proceed, register, and pay the money to take the NCLEX with Pearson VUE once you have received confirmation from the board of nursing that you have completed all of their state requirements. Follow the registration instructions and fill out the forms as completely as possible.
Step 3: Authorisation to Test
Pearson VUE will send you an Authorisation to Test (ATT) document if the licensure board determines that you are eligible. You must test within the ATT’s validity dates (usually 90 days). There are no extensions available; otherwise, you will have to re-register and pay the price. The test authorisation number, validity date, and candidate identity number are all found on your ATT.
Step 4: Schedule your Exam Appointment
The next step is to schedule a Pearson VUE testing day, time, and location. The NCLEX will be administered at a testing centre; you can schedule an exam online or over the phone. You will receive an email confirmation of your appointment, including the date and time you selected, as well as instructions to the testing centre.
Step 5: On Exam Day
Attendees should arrive at the examination centre at least 30 minutes before the scheduled exam time. You must have your active ATT account and an approved form of identification (such as a driver’s license, passport, etc.) that is current, contains your photo and signature, and is valid.
Step 6: Processing Results
After six weeks, the board of nursing will send you your official results.
NCLEX Exam Fees
Before moving forward with the preparation of the NCLEX Exam, let’s look at the exam fees for this exam.
| Fee | Candidates Seeking U.S. Licensure | Candidates Seeking Canadian Licensure/Registration | Candidates Seeking Australian Licensure |
| Registration Fee | USD 200 (14,729 INR) | CAD 360 (20,935 INR) | USD 200 (14,729 INR) |
| Additional International Scheduling fee (+value added tax where applicable) | USD 150 (11,047 INR) | CAD 150 (8,722 INR) | USD 150 (11,047 INR) |
| Change the nursing regulatory body after the registration fee | USD 50 (3,682 INR) | CAD 50 (2,907 INR) | Not Applicable |
| Change exam type (RN/PN) after registration fee | USD 50 (36,682 INR) | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Change exam language (English/French) after the registration fee | Not Applicable | CAD 50 (2,907 INR) | Not Applicable |
| Licensure/Registration Fee | Contact the nursing regulatory body | Contact the nursing regulatory body | Contact the nursing regulatory body |
Also Read: 5 Steps Complete Guide: How to Go Abroad for Nursing Jobs
NCLEX Review Courses Compared
There are various courses to pursue under the NCLEX exam. You can analyse and review each course and compare them according to your preference. In the table below, you can look at the NCLEX review courses compared for your understanding.
| Review Course | Study Materials | Additional Features | Access Length | NCLEX Pass Rate | Cost |
| UWorld | 2,100+ questions 2 self-assessments in the more expensive package | Mobile App | 30-180 days depending on the package | 96% | USD 129-USD 279(9,500 -20,547 INR) |
| NURSING.com | Up to 5 simulation NCLEX exams 300+ lesson review course 6,000+ practice questions 400+ page review ebook 4 study plans | Mobile App Online study groups 200% money-back guarantee | 6-month to 18-month access with a 3-day trial | 99.86% pass rate | USD 39/month – USD 82/month(2,872 INR/6,039 INR) |
| Kaplan | On-demand videos or live interactive classes | Pass Guarantee Mobile App Diagnostic tests to identify weaknesses | 6 months | Not listed | USD 399- USD 499(29,385 -36,750 INR) |
| Hurst | Online and interactive streaming options Readiness exams1500+ NCLEX questions Workbooks | Pass Guarantee | 30-120 days | 98% | USD 109-USD 399(8,027 -29,385 INR) |
| ATI | Self-paced review course Virtual and live options Mobile-friendly online classroom Content assessments and rationales | Diagnostic tests to identify weaknesses Live coaches Personalized course | 12-week | Not listed |
NCLEX Exam Pattern
Pearson Professional Centre is where the NCLEX exam is given. The exam will be different for each participant. Because each question is dependent on the answer to the preceding one, a person can be asked anywhere between 75 and 265 questions. Only 60 of the first 75 questions on the exam will be counted, with the remaining 15 questions being saved for future testing. This exam is divided into three levels.
- Level 1- Tests candidates’ knowledge and understanding
- Level 2– Tests candidates’ analysis and application
- Level 3– Test candidates’ qualitative and aptitude.
NCLEX Exam Syllabus
After understanding the NCLEX exam patterns, you should look at the syllabus and prepare accordingly. Below, we have mentioned the NCLEX exam syllabus:
NCLEX- PN tests the following areas:
- Safe, effective care environment
- Health promotion and maintenance
- Psychosocial Integrity
- Psychological Integrity
NCLEX- RN tests the following areas:
- Safe, effective care environment
- Health promotion and maintenance
- Psychosocial Integrity
- Psychological Integrity
NCLEX Testing Centres in India
There are few centres in India that are open for the NCLEX exam. Some of them keep changing, but some of them are common to have. Below, we have mentioned a few NCLEX testing centres in India.
- Pearson Professional Centres-Bangalore: Trade Centre, Dickenson Road, Next to Maniple Centre, Bangalore, KAR 560042
- Pearson Professional Centres-Chennai: Gee Gee Emerald Building, 151, Village Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai, TAM 600034
- Pearson Professional Centres-Hyderabad: 202, ABK Olbee Plaza, Road No.1, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, AND 500034
- Pearson Vue Professional Centres – New Delhi: Yousuf Sarai Community Centre, Above Hyundai Showroom, New Delhi, DEL 110016
- Pearson Professional Centres-Mumbai: Solitaire Corporate Park,167 Andheri, J B Nagar Link Rd, Chakala, Andheri, Mumbai, MAH 400093
FAQs
Everyone must respond to a minimum of 75 and a maximum of 265 questions. You will be given 15 experimental questions that will not count for or against you, regardless of how many you answer. They are used by the exam administrators to test for future questions on the exam.
There is no time limit on any of the questions. The exam will take a maximum of 6 hours to complete, including a tutorial at the start. There are no breaks that must be taken. However, after 2 hours of testing, there is an optional break, and after 3.5 hours of testing, there is another optional break.
To be eligible for the NCLEX, you must graduate from an accredited nursing program (RN or PN). As a student nurse, you can apply once your school confirms your completion.
In India, the NCLEX exam fee is around USD 200 (INR 16,000–INR 17,000 approx.). You may also need to pay additional charges like application, international scheduling, and travel expenses.
The NCLEX is challenging because it tests your application of knowledge, not just memory. With the right preparation, practice questions, and time management, nursing students can definitely succeed.
Related Reads:
We hope that this blog has provided comprehensive information about the NCLEX Exam for Nursing and the required eligibility criteria. Are you concerned about the future and the path you should take? Our Leverage Edu experts are ready to assist you in discovering the best courses and colleges to match your interests and preferences! Today is the last day to sign up for a free career counselling consultation with us!
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How can i apply for nclex Rn exam
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How can I apply NCLEX -RN?
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How can i apply for nclex Rn exam
How can I apply NCLEX -RN?