The NCLEX-RN exam, or National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses, is a standardized test that nursing graduates must pass to become licensed Registered Nurses (RNs) in the United States, Canada, and some international regions. The NCLEX-RN evaluates whether a candidate has the knowledge, skills, and critical-thinking abilities necessary to provide safe and effective entry-level nursing care. Because of its importance, many students search for clear guidance on what the NCLEX-RN is, how it works, and what it measures.
The exam is administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and uses Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) technology. This means that the test adjusts the difficulty of each question based on your previous responses, creating a personalized testing experience. The goal is to accurately determine your competency level. You can expect questions on patient care, safety, infection control, pharmacology, prioritization, and physiological and psychological integrity.
The NCLEX-RN is not like traditional exams it focuses heavily on clinical judgment and the ability to apply nursing concepts in real-world scenarios. Most questions are multiple-choice, but the exam also includes alternative formats such as select-all-that-apply (SATA), drag-and-drop, hotspot items, and case studies that test decision-making.
To take the NCLEX-RN, candidates must graduate from an approved nursing program and receive an authorization to test (ATT) from their state board of nursing. Passing the NCLEX-RN grants eligibility for RN licensure, allowing you to legally practice as a registered nurse.
Preparing for the NCLEX-RN often involves using review courses, practice tests, study guides, and evidence-based learning strategies. Understanding the structure and purpose of the NCLEX-RN exam is essential for achieving a passing score and launching a successful nursing career.