Passing the NCLEX-RN exam is the final step toward becoming a licensed Registered Nurse (RN). It is a challenging exam that requires both nursing knowledge and strong test-taking strategies. The good news is that with the right preparation, you can walk into exam day with confidence.

At Florida National University (FNU), our Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program is designed to give you the foundation you need. Not only will you gain the knowledge required for nursing licensure, but you will also be prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam itself.

What is the NCLEX-RN Exam?

The NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses) is a standardized examination that nursing graduates must pass to obtain licensure as Registered Nurses (RNs). Developed and overseen by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), the exam ensures that entry-level nurses have the knowledge, skills, and abilities to provide quality patient care and sound clinical judgment as safe practitioners.

How Difficult Is the NCLEX-RN Exam?

The NCLEX-RN is considered one of the most challenging exams for nursing graduates because it goes beyond memorization. Instead, it measures how well you can apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios. Here are a few factors that add to its difficulty:

  • Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT): The exam adjusts the difficulty of questions based on your answers. If you answer correctly, the next question will likely be more challenging. This format can make the exam feel progressively harder.
  • Number of Questions: You may answer between 85 and 150 questions. The test ends once it determines with confidence whether you meet the passing standard.
  • Time Limit: You have up to 5 hours to complete the exam, which can create mental fatigue if you are not prepared.
  • Case Studies and Clinical Judgment: The exam includes case studies that require you to apply the Clinical Judgment Measurement Model (CJMM), testing skills like recognizing cues, prioritizing hypotheses, and evaluating outcomes.

The NCLEX is designed to be difficult because it ensures that only safe, competent, and well-prepared nurses enter the workforce.

Types of Questions on the NCLEX-RN

The NCLEX tests a wide range of nursing knowledge and skills. Questions are designed to mimic real-life nursing situations and fall into several categories:

  • Safe and Effective Care Environment
    • Management of care: delegation, prioritization, patient rights, and ethical issues.
    • Safety and infection control: PPE, isolation precautions, and preventing healthcare-associated infections.
  • Health Promotion and Maintenance
    • Growth and development across the lifespan.
    • Prenatal and maternal care.
    • Screenings, immunizations, and wellness education. 
  • Psychosocial Integrity
    • Therapeutic communication and mental health care.
    • Crisis intervention and coping strategies.
    • Recognizing abuse, neglect, or substance dependency. 
  • Physiological Integrity
    • Basic care and comfort: pain management, mobility, and daily living support.
    • Pharmacological therapies: safe medication administration, IV therapy, and dosage calculations.
    • Reduction of risk potential: monitoring for complications, interpreting lab values, and pre- and post-op care.
    • Physiological adaptation: caring for patients with acute, chronic, or life-threatening conditions.

In addition to standard multiple-choice, you may also see:

  • Select all that apply (SATA)
  • Fill-in-the-blank calculations
  • Drag-and-drop ordering
  • Hotspot questions (clicking on a specific part of an image)
  • Case study scenarios requiring multiple responses

Eligibility and Requirements for the NCLEX-RN Exam

Before you can take the NCLEX-RN, you need to meet a few important requirements:

  • Graduated from an approved nursing program such as FNU’s Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN).
  • Apply for licensure through your state’s board of nursing.
  • Receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) after your application is reviewed and approved.
  • Register with Pearson VUE, the official testing provider, to schedule your exam date.

Meeting these steps ensures that you are officially eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN.

How the NCLEX-RN Is Scored

The NCLEX-RN uses a pass/fail system rather than a traditional letter grade. The exam’s computerized adaptive testing algorithm measures whether you consistently meet the minimum competency standard required for safe nursing practice.

  • A passing decision is made once the system is 95 percent confident that you meet or exceed the standard.
  • If you do not meet the standard, you will receive a failing result and may retake the exam after the required waiting period.
  • Results are typically available from the Florida Board of Nursing (or your state’s board) within a few days.

The goal of this scoring system is to ensure that every licensed nurse has the knowledge and judgment needed to practice safely.

How to Prepare for the NCLEX-RN Exam

The NCLEX-RN is a challenging exam, but the right preparation can make all the difference. Here are some simple steps to help you get ready:

  • Learn the exam format: The test adapts to your answers, so practice different question types like multiple-choice, select-all-that-apply, and case studies.
  • Study the test plan: Use the NCLEX test plan as a guide and spend more time on the areas where you feel less confident.
  • Make a study schedule: Study regularly instead of cramming. Short, consistent sessions are more effective.
  • Use study tools: Prep books, flashcards, and practice tests can help you review key topics.
  • Focus on weak spots: After practice tests, review the questions you missed and learn why.
  • Practice like it’s test day: Take timed practice exams in a quiet place to build stamina and manage your time.

Preparing step by step will help you feel more confident and ready on exam day.

Passing the NCLEX

Passing the NCLEX-RN is the last step toward becoming a licensed registered nurse. Success comes from more than memorizing facts — it requires critical thinking, clinical judgment, and the ability to apply what you learned in nursing school to real patient scenarios. By following a focused study plan, practicing with NCLEX-style questions, and staying consistent in your preparation, you can walk into exam day with confidence.

Remember, every question you answer brings you one step closer to achieving your goal of becoming an RN. With determination and the right preparation, passing the NCLEX-RN is within your reach.

Eager to Learn More?

The purpose of the Associate of Science in Nursing program at Florida National University is to provide quality nursing education to a culturally, socially, and ethnically diverse community. The program achieves this mission by preparing the graduates for employment at entry-level registered nursing positions. The program further achieves this mission by ensuring mastery of affective, cognitive, and psychomotor skills so that its graduates can become successful licensed registered nurses who are able to provide holistic, safe, culturally sensitive care to a wide variety of clients throughout the lifespan.

Let Florida National University answer any questions if you are interested in our healthcare programs. Contact us today to learn more about our Associate Degree in Nursing.

References

Next Generation NCLEX-RN Test Plan. (2023). National Council of State Boards of Nursing | NCSBN. https://www.ncsbn.org/public-files/2023_RN_Test%20Plan_English_FINAL.pdf

Frequently Asked Questions About the NCLEX-RN

How many questions are on the NCLEX-RN?

You may see between 85 and 150 questions. The exact number depends on how you perform as the test adapts to your answers.

How long do you have to take the exam?

The exam allows up to 5 hours, including optional breaks.

Is the NCLEX-RN hard to pass?

Yes, the NCLEX is considered challenging because it focuses on applying knowledge, not just memorization. With the right preparation and practice, many students pass on their first attempt.

What score do you need to pass the NCLEX-RN?

The exam is pass/fail. You pass when the system determines with 95 percent confidence that you meet the minimum competency standard.

What happens if I fail the NCLEX-RN?

You can retake the exam after 45 days. Most states allow multiple attempts within a set period, but it is important to check with your state board of nursing.

What is the best way to prepare for the NCLEX-RN?

The most effective preparation includes reviewing the NCLEX test plan, practicing with sample questions, focusing on weak areas, and simulating exam conditions with timed practice tests.