Prepare for your NCLEX exam with a free NCLEX practice test below.
We have provided both NCLEX-PN and NCLEX-RN practice exams for you. Make sure to study for the correct NCLEX exam. The NCLEX-RN is for those intending to be a registered nurse and the NCLEX-PN is for those intending to be a vocational or practical nurse.
| 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-PN Flashcards | 100+ flashcards to review for the NCLEX-PN exam. | Quizlet |
If you are looking for more NCLEX questions, consider one of the best NCLEX prep courses we reviewed.
Who Takes the NCLEX?
Nursing students who have completed their nursing program will take the NCLEX.
- Students wishing to become an RN will take the NCLEX-RN.
- Students wishing to become a LPN or LVN will take the NCLEX-PN.
Both exams are similar and contain the same number of questions and time limits.
Exam Outline
The NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN exams are similar to each other in terms of number of questions, time limits, how the exam is given, and types of questions.
- NCLEX-RN: 85 to 150 Questions. 5 Hour Time Limit.
- NCLEX-PN: 85 to 150 Questions. 5 Hour Time Limit.
Both exams are computer adaptive. This means that the questions will adapt as you progress through the exam. Some students may only need 85 questions to pass, while others may need all 150 questions.
Make sure to use the NCLEX practice questions above to prepare!
NCLEX-RN Summary
The NCLEX-RN will test you on the following subjects:
- Management of Care: 15-21%
- Safety and Infection Control: 10-16%
- Health Promotion and Maintenance: 6-12%
- Psychosocial Integrity: 6-12%
- Basic Care and Comfort: 6-12%
- Pharmacological Therapies: 13-19%
- Reduction of Risk Potential: 9-15%
- Physiological Adaptation: 11-17%
You can also expect at least 3 case studies with at least 18 questions.
NCLEX-PN Summary
The NCLEX-PN will test you on the following subjects:
- Coordinated Care: 18-24%
- Safety and Infection Control: 10-16%
- Health Promotion and Maintenance: 6-12%
- Psychosocial Integrity: 9-15%
- Basic Care and Comfort: 7-13%
- Pharmacological Therapies: 10-16%
- Reduction of Risk Potential: 9-15%
- Physiological Adaptation: 7-13%
You can also expect at least 3 case studies with at least 18 questions.
For a more detailed breakdown of the exam, visit our NCLEX exam overview.
You can also visit the official source for additional information.
Scoring
The NCLEX uses a computer adaptive test and a complex scoring system. The NCLEX is a pass/fail test.
The NCLEX uses a logit scoring system. Without getting too technical, you will need to receive a logit score of 0.00 or higher to pass the exam.
While taking the exam, your logit score in constantly being calculated based on how you are answering questions. This is why some students may end up answering more questions than others.
Students who pass the exam will be informed that they passed. Students who failed the exam will have an opportunity to view a detailed score report (only if you failed).
Studying for the Exam
The NCLEX is one of the highest stakes exams a nursing student can take. Here are some tips to use when studying for the NCLEX:
- Use a NCLEX Practice Exam to Get a Baseline: Using a practice exam will help you figure out where you stand. You may find that you really struggled and need to dedicate some serious study time to the exam.
- Narrow Down Struggle Areas: Take step #1 a step further and figure out which specific topics you struggled with. You can use this information to study more efficiently and save yourself some time.
- Do Not Cram: Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to study for the exam. You will save yourself some stress by giving yourself enough time to study.
- Consider Investing in a Full-Fledged Prep Course: A complete prep course will provide you with everything you need and it will ensure you do not skip over any information you should know. We reviewed the best NCLEX prep programs if you want more information.
- Take a Simulated Exam: One of your last steps should include taking a simulated exam. A simulated NCLEX exam will help you figure out where you stand and either confirm that you are ready for the actual exam or let you know if you need to continue studying.
NCLEX Administration, Fees, and Requirements
- In order to register for the NCLEX, you must first request a license/registration application from your nursing regulatory body (NRB).
- You must submit your application materials and licensing fees to your NRB.
- You can then register to take the NCLEX through Pearson Vue.
You can find more information and register for your NCLEX exams here. 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 practiced the appropriate NCLEX test questions.
Lastly, you can expect to pay $200 to take the NCLEX.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the types of NCLEX exams?
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 long is the NCLEX exam?
The NCLEX exam will last for a maximum of 5 hours.
How many questions are on the NCLEX?
There will be a minimum of 85 questions and a maximum of 150 questions. This goes for both the NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN.
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. You will need to receive a logit score of 0.00 or higher to pass.
