Q: Do you need 50% on NCLEX to pass?
A: No, you do not need a simple 50% or any percentage of correct answers to pass the NCLEX. The NCLEX uses a Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) model and a logit scoring system that does not rely on percentages. Passing is determined by whether your final estimated ability meets or exceeds the passing standard (currently -0.18 logits for the NCLEX-RN), which the NCSBN board sets. The exam measures competency, not a percentage score.
Q: How does the CAT system determine my score?
A: The system starts you with a question of medium difficulty. If you answer correctly, you receive a harder question; if incorrect, an easier one. Your "ability estimate" adjusts with each question. The exam ends when the computer achieves 95% confidence that your ability is either above (pass) or below (fail) the passing standard. You could theoretically answer only 40% of questions correctly and still pass if those were very difficult questions, or answer 70% correctly and fail if they were mostly easy questions.
Q: What is a logit?
A: A logit is a unit of measurement used in the Rasch model to estimate ability and item difficulty on a common scale. You do not need to calculate it. Simply understand that the computer places you and each question on this scale. Your goal is to demonstrate an ability estimate at or above the passing standard logit when the test stops.
Q: Does the "Next Generation NCLEX (NGN)" change how passing is determined?
A: No. The NGN introduced new item types (like case studies) but uses the same CAT algorithm and logit-based scoring. The passing standard is still set by the NCSBN board. The scoring of new partial-credit items is incorporated into the same ability estimation process.
Q: How can I know if I'm performing above the passing standard during the exam?
You cannot and should not try. The best strategy is to focus on every single question as it comes. Do not try to guess the difficulty of questions or your performance. Trust your preparation and use critical thinking: prioritize safety, use the nursing process, and apply clinical judgment.
Q: What's the best way to prepare for this unique scoring system?
A:
- Use CAT-Style Practice Tests: Simulate the adaptive environment to build comfort with the format.
- Focus on High-Yield Content: Master fundamentals, pharmacology, management of care, and safety.
- Build Stamina: Prepare to think critically for up to 150 questions over 5 hours.
- Review Rationales Deeply: Understanding why an answer is correct is more important than the percentage of questions you got right on a practice test.
For official and detailed information on NCLEX scoring, visit the National Council of State Boards of Nursing at www.ncsbn.org.