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The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) is the standardized exam for nursing graduates. They must pass it to become licensed as a registered nurse (RN). It also licenses them as a licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/LVN) in the United States and Canada.

NCLEX Overview

There are two main types of NCLEX exams, depending on your nursing education:

1. NCLEX-RN: For graduates of registered nursing (RN) programs.
2. NCLEX-PN: For graduates of practical/vocational nursing (PN/VN) programs.

Both exams are designed to test your knowledge, skills, and abilities. These are necessary to provide safe and effective care as an entry-level nurse.

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Exam Format

• Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT):
  • The NCLEX uses CAT technology, which means the difficulty of questions adapts based on your responses.
  • Correct answers lead to harder questions; incorrect answers result in easier ones.
  • This ensures the test is tailored to your ability level.
• Number of Questions:
  • NCLEX-RN: 75–145 questions (minimum of 75, maximum of 145).
  • NCLEX-PN: 85–150 questions.
  • Both exams include 15 experimental questions that don’t count toward your score.
• Time Limit:
  • Both exams have a maximum time limit of 5 hours, including breaks and instructions.
• Content Areas:
  • The NCLEX tests candidates on four major areas:
    1. Safe and Effective Care Environment
       • Management of care (RN) or coordinated care (PN).
       • Safety and infection control.
    2. Health Promotion and Maintenance.
    3. Psychosocial Integrity.
    4. Physiological Integrity:
       • Basic care and comfort.
       • Pharmacological and parenteral therapies.
       • Reduction of risk potential.
       • Physiological adaptation.

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Eligibility Requirements

1. Complete an Accredited Nursing Program:
   • You must graduate from a state-approved RN or PN/VN nursing program.
2. Apply for Licensure:
   • Submit an application for licensure to the nursing regulatory body (NRB) in the state where you want to practice. Or submit it to the NRB in the territory where you want to practice.
3. Register with Pearson VUE:
   • After applying to your NRB, register for the NCLEX exam through the testing vendor, Pearson VUE.
4. Receive Authorization to Test (ATT):
   • Once your application and registration are processed, you’ll receive an ATT email with instructions on how to schedule your exam.

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How to Apply for the NCLEX

1. Apply to Your Nursing Regulatory Body (NRB):
   • Submit an application for licensure/registration to the NRB in your desired state or territory.
   • Provide documentation such as proof of graduation from a nursing program.
2. Register with Pearson VUE:
   • Visit the Pearson VUE NCLEX website: www.pearsonvue.com/nclex.
   • Create an account and pay the registration fee (typically $200 for U.S. candidates).
3. Schedule Your Exam:
   • After receiving your ATT, log into Pearson VUE to select a testing date and location.

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Exam Fees

• Registration Fee: $200 (U.S.).
• Additional Fees:
  • International scheduling fee: $150.
  • Changes to exam date/location: $50.

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Scoring

• The NCLEX uses a pass/fail system based on your ability to demonstrate safe nursing practices.
• Results are typically available within 48 hours (depending on the state).

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Tips for Success

1. Start Early:
   • Begin studying months before your test date. Focus on understanding core nursing concepts.
2. Use Practice Questions:
   • Utilize practice tests and question banks to familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions.
3. Focus on Weak Areas:
   • Identify topics where you’re struggling and devote extra time to mastering them.
4. Take Care of Yourself:
   • Ensure you get enough rest, eat healthily, and stay hydrated leading up to the exam.
5. Use Reliable Study Resources:
   • Popular options include UWorld, Kaplan, and Saunders Comprehensive Review.

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NCLEX Resources

• Pearson VUE: www.pearsonvue.com/nclex
• National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN): www.ncsbn.org
• NCLEX Candidate Bulletin: NCLEX Guide

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