Are you wondering how many times you can take the NCLEX examination? Anticipation of failure in the NCLEX is not an odd feeling! NCLEX is one of the most important steps for your career.
NCLEX can feel like a tough nut to crack but the truth is, with the right preparation and strategy, you can ace NCLEX like a pro! In this blog, let us look into how many times you can take the NCLEX and more!
NCLEX Retake Process
If you didn’t crack your NCLEX examination, don’t worry! You still have multiple attempts to crack.
1. Understand the NCLEX Retake Policy
- Waiting Period: You must wait 45 days from your previous test date before retaking the NCLEX.
- Number of Attempts: You can take the NCLEX up to 8 times in a year, depending on your state board’s regulations.
- Validity of Application: Some state boards require you to reapply if you don’t pass within a set time (usually 1-3 years).
2. Receive Your Candidate's Performance Report (CPR)
- After failing the NCLEX, you’ll get a CPR—a detailed breakdown of how you performed in each section.
- Use this report to identify the areas where you need improvement.
3. Reapply to Your Nursing Regulatory Body (NRB)
- Contact your State Board of Nursing to confirm their specific retake requirements.
- Submit a new NCLEX application and pay the required fees (usually $200 for U.S. candidates).
4. Register Again with Pearson VUE
- Create or log in to your Pearson VUE account.
- Pay the $200 exam fee (additional fees may apply for international candidates).
- Wait to receive a new Authorization to Test (ATT) via email.
5. Schedule Your Retake Exam
- Once you receive your ATT, book your new NCLEX exam date through Pearson VUE.
- Choose a date that gives you enough time to study while adhering to the 45-day waiting period.
6. Prepare for Success
- Analyze your CPR and focus on weak areas.
- Consider enrolling in NCLEX prep courses or using study materials like UWorld, Kaplan, or NCLEX-RN Mastery.
- Practice with NCLEX-style questions and build test-taking strategies.
7. After Your Retake
- You’ll receive your unofficial results within 48 hours (via Pearson VUE’s "Quick Results" service, if available).
- Official results will be sent by your State Board of Nursing within a few weeks.
How Many Times Can You Take the NCLEX in States With No Additional Rules?
If you are reading here without missing any important information mentioned above, you already know that you have a 45-day waiting period.
After the 45-day waiting period, you can attempt NCLEX again. In this case, NCLEX can be attempted 8 times a year with a 45-day waiting period.
If you have more doubts, check with your state board of nursing to get a clear understanding of the guidelines.
Final Thoughts
Failing the NCLEX isn’t the end, it just gives plenty of time for you to come back stronger. 48-day cooling period in your NCLEX preparation helps you learn the concepts with more attention.
So, dust off those books, channel your inner nursing ninja, and get ready to crush the NCLEX—because your white coat moment is waiting!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many attempts do you have for the NCLEX?
You have 8 attempts per year for your NCLEX exam. Before every attempt, you have 48 days as your waiting period.
2. What is the NCLEX passing score?
NCLEX is not a score-based examination. It is a pass/fail examination, once you get the passing standard, the questions automatically stop. You must achieve a logit score of +0.00 or higher. This means you need to consistently answer questions above the passing standard.
3. What is the maximum number of NCLEX?
The maximum number of times you can take the NCLEX varies by state. In most states without additional restrictions, you can take the exam 8 times in a year. Some states may limit the total attempts within a set period.
