Pass/Fail
The NCLEX-RN® exam is pass/fail—there is no numerical score. A determination will be made at the conclusion of the exam as to whether you have passed or failed. However, the results will not be made available at the exam site. You’ll be notified by your State Board of Nursing approximately 2-4 weeks after your test date.
What if I fail?
First, don’t despair. You are not alone. Many students do not pass the NCLEX-RN exam on their first attempt. Failing the exam means that you did not successfully answer questions at or above the level of difficulty needed to pass. On this particular exam, you were unable to demonstrate your ability to provide safe and effective care.
If you fail, you’ll receive a diagnostic profile that evaluates your test performance. Read it carefully. You’ll see how many questions you answered on the exam. The more questions you answered, the closer you came to passing.
The only way you continue to get questions after the first 75 is if you are answering questions close to the level of difficulty need to pass. Use the diagnostic profile to determine your problem areas. You can then focus your preparation accordingly.
If you fail, you’ll receive a diagnostic profile that evaluates your test performance. Read it carefully. You’ll see how many questions you answered on the exam. The more questions you answered, the closer you came to passing.
The only way you continue to get questions after the first 75 is if you are answering questions close to the level of difficulty need to pass. Use the diagnostic profile to determine your problem areas. You can then focus your preparation accordingly.
Should I test again?
Absolutely. Re-testing for the NCLEX-RN exam is permitted 45 days after the initial administration (unless you’re in Georgia or Guam—contact SBON for details).
If you prepared on your own for the first time, you may want to consider a formal preparation option to help you focus your study time more effectively.
Regardless of the method you choose, don’t forget to use the diagnostic profile to guide your preparation.
I hope you understand the NCLEX® Grading System
If you prepared on your own for the first time, you may want to consider a formal preparation option to help you focus your study time more effectively.
Regardless of the method you choose, don’t forget to use the diagnostic profile to guide your preparation.
I hope you understand the NCLEX® Grading System