What Is the NCLEX-RN? Exam Format, Requirements, and Passing
What Is the NCLEX-RN?
The NCLEX-RN is the national licensing exam that nursing graduates must pass to become registered nurses. After completing an approved nursing program, graduates take the NCLEX-RN as part of the state licensure process.
The exam is designed to measure whether a candidate is ready to practice safely as an entry-level registered nurse. It uses real-world case studies and computerized adaptive testing to evaluate clinical judgment, critical thinking, and nursing competence.
What does NCLEX stand for?
NCLEX stands for National Council Licensure Examination. The NCLEX-RN is the version of the exam used for registered nurse candidates. It is developed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing and used by nursing regulatory bodies as part of the licensure process.
Source: NCLEX Official Site
Who takes the NCLEX-RN?
Nursing graduates who want to become registered nurses take the NCLEX-RN after completing an approved nursing program and meeting the requirements of the state where they plan to apply for licensure.
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is one pathway to RN preparation. At the University of Saint Mary, students in the Traditional BSN program complete classroom learning, clinical experiences, and nursing coursework designed to prepare them for the RN licensure path.
Explore USM’s Traditional BSN program.
What does the NCLEX-RN test?
The NCLEX-RN is not just a test of memorized nursing facts. It evaluates whether a candidate can apply nursing knowledge safely in patient-care situations. The current NCLEX includes real-world case studies designed to measure clinical judgment and decision-making.
The exam may assess areas such as:
- Safe and effective care
- Health promotion and maintenance
- Psychosocial integrity
- Basic care and comfort
- Pharmacological and parenteral therapies
- Reduction of risk potential
- Physiological adaptation
- Clinical judgment and patient-care decision-making
Source: NCSBN NCLEX & Other Exams
How does the NCLEX-RN work?
The NCLEX uses computerized adaptive testing, often called CAT. That means the exam adjusts as a candidate answers questions, selecting items that help determine whether the candidate has demonstrated the required level of nursing competence.
The goal is not simply to answer a fixed number of questions correctly. The exam is designed to determine whether the candidate meets the standard for safe entry-level registered nursing.
When do you take the NCLEX-RN?
Students typically take the NCLEX-RN after graduating from an approved nursing program. Before testing, candidates must also meet state board requirements and receive authorization to test.
Because licensure is handled at the state level, students should review the requirements for the state where they intend to practice.
Learn how to become a registered nurse.
How does a BSN help prepare you for the NCLEX?
A BSN program helps students build the academic, clinical, and ethical foundation needed for nursing practice. Students learn nursing theory, patient assessment, pharmacology, clinical decision-making, communication, and hands-on care through classroom and clinical experiences.
At USM, nursing education also reflects the university’s commitment to ethical development and service. Students are prepared not only to pass an exam, but to care for patients with compassion, integrity, and respect for human dignity.
Is the NCLEX the same as becoming licensed?
No. Passing the NCLEX-RN is an important part of becoming licensed, but licensure itself is granted by the state board of nursing or nursing regulatory body. Candidates must meet all state requirements, which may include education, application steps, background checks, fees, and passing the NCLEX-RN.
What happens after passing the NCLEX-RN?
After passing the NCLEX-RN and meeting state licensure requirements, graduates can become licensed registered nurses. Registered nurses may work in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, public health, schools, and other healthcare settings.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that registered nurses earned a median annual wage of $93,600 in May 2024, and employment is projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Registered Nurses
See whether a BSN is worth it.
How the University of Saint Mary supports NCLEX preparation
The University of Saint Mary’s Traditional BSN program prepares students through a combination of classroom learning, clinical experience, and mission-centered nursing education. Students develop the knowledge and judgment needed for patient care while learning in a community that values compassion, service, and ethical responsibility.
USM Traditional BSN Snapshot
- Degree: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Program Length: Four years for freshmen; approximately two years for qualified transfer students
- Total Credits: 120 credits
- Accreditation: CCNE-accredited program
- Clinical Experience: Clinical rotations across the Kansas City region
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 96% for the Class of 2024
See how long a Traditional BSN takes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NCLEX-RN?
The NCLEX-RN is the national licensing exam for registered nurse candidates. Nursing graduates must pass it as part of the process to become licensed RNs.
When do nursing students take the NCLEX?
Nursing students take the NCLEX-RN after graduating from an approved nursing program and receiving authorization to test from the appropriate nursing regulatory body.
What does the NCLEX-RN measure?
The NCLEX-RN measures whether a candidate has the clinical judgment, knowledge, and decision-making ability needed for safe entry-level registered nursing practice.
Is the NCLEX-RN hard?
The NCLEX-RN is designed to be rigorous because it measures readiness for safe nursing practice. Strong preparation through coursework, clinical experience, and consistent review is important.
Do BSN graduates take the NCLEX-RN?
Yes. BSN graduates who want to become registered nurses take the NCLEX-RN after completing their program and meeting state licensure requirements.
Does passing the NCLEX automatically make you an RN?
Not by itself. Passing the NCLEX-RN is a major requirement, but licensure is granted by the state board of nursing after all requirements are met.
Take the next step toward RN licensure
If you want a nursing degree that prepares you for the NCLEX-RN path while forming you as a compassionate and ethical caregiver, the University of Saint Mary’s Traditional BSN program can help you move forward.
Explore the Traditional BSN Program
Additional Links
USM's BSN Program
About BSN programs and nursing
Additional Links
USM's BSN Program
About BSN programs and nursing