NCLEX Examination

What is the NCLEX?

The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) is a nationwide examination for the licensing of nurses in the United States.

The NCLEX tests the knowledge, skills, and abilities essential for the safe and effective practice of nursing at the entry level.

It’s designed to test the application and analysis of knowledge, rather than just recall of facts.

Format

85–150 adaptive questions that adjust to your ability level

Duration

Up to 5 hours to complete the examination

Testing

Available worldwide via Pearson VUE testing centers

Retakes

Allowed after 45 days if needed (up to 8 times per year)

Tools We Offer

Comprehensive resources to ensure your NCLEX success

UWorld Access

Full access to UWorld's question bank with detailed rationales.

Live Classes

Interactive live sessions with expert instructors.

Recorded Sessions

24/7 access to recorded lectures.

Mock Exams

Realistic practice exams that simulate NCLEX.

States with No SSN Requirement

Several U.S. states allow nurses to apply for licensure without a Social Security Number (SSN)

State Requirements Processing Time Additional Notes
New York Affidavit stating you don't have SSN 4-6 weeks High demand for nurses
New Mexico SSN waiver form 2-4 weeks Rural nursing opportunities
Texas Declaration of no SSN 4-6 weeks Large healthcare systems
California ITIN accepted 8-12 weeks Highest nursing salaries

NCLEX Content Areas

Understanding what you'll be tested on

Safe and Effective Care Environment

Management of Care (17-23% of questions)

  • Advance Directives
  • Advocacy
  • Case Management
  • Client Rights
  • Collaboration with Interdisciplinary Team

Safety and Infection Control (9-15% of questions)

  • Accident Prevention
  • Error Prevention
  • Handling Hazardous Materials
  • Standard Precautions

Health Promotion and Maintenance

6-12% of questions

  • Aging Process
  • Developmental Stages
  • Health Promotion Programs
  • Health Screening
  • Lifestyle Choices

Psychosocial Integrity

6-12% of questions

  • Behavioral Management
  • Coping Mechanisms
  • Crisis Intervention
  • Mental Health Concepts

Physiological Integrity

Basic Care and Comfort (6-12% of questions)

  • Assistive Devices
  • Nutrition and Oral Hydration
  • Personal Hygiene

Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies (12-18% of questions)

  • Adverse Effects/Contraindications
  • Medication Administration
  • Parenteral/Intravenous Therapies

Reduction of Risk Potential (9-15% of questions)

  • Diagnostic Tests
  • Laboratory Values
  • Potential for Complications

Physiological Adaptation (11-17% of questions)

  • Alterations in Body Systems
  • Fluid and Electrolyte Imbalances
  • Medical Emergencies

Free Study Resources

Helpful materials to kickstart your NCLEX preparation

NCLEX Study Plan Template

A customizable 8-week study schedule.

Download PDF
NCLEX Test-Taking Strategies

Expert tips to manage time and question types.

Download PDF
Nursing Lab Values Cheat Sheet

Quick reference to the most important lab values.

Download PDF

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