NCLEX Exam 2025: Everything You Need to Know About Licensure for Nurses in the USA, Canada & Australia

The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) is a vital step for nursing graduates who wish to practice professionally in the United States, Canada, or Australia. Administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), the NCLEX ensures that only qualified individuals gain licensure to work as Registered Nurses (RNs) or Practical/Vocational Nurses (PNs/LVNs).

In this guide, we will cover the types of NCLEX exams, eligibility criteria, fees, exam format, and more — to help you confidently navigate the licensure process.

What is NCLEX?

The NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) is a standardized, computerized test that nurses must pass to get licensed. It is designed to evaluate the skills, knowledge, and decision-making ability of a nursing graduate to ensure safe and effective entry-level practice.

• Administered by: NCSBN (National Council of State Boards of Nursing)
• Regions Covered: United States (since 1982), Canada (since 2015), and Australia (since 2020)
• Languages: English and French (in Canada)
• Exam Type: Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT)
• Eligibility: Graduation from an accredited nursing program

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Types of NCLEX Exams

There are two primary types of NCLEX exams, each tailored for a specific nursing career path:

1. NCLEX-RN (Registered Nurse)

The NCLEX-RN is required for individuals who wish to become Registered Nurses. It is a more advanced examination that assesses the candidate’s ability to make complex clinical decisions and manage patient care.

• Key Features: Based on the five-step nursing process:
  • Assessment → Diagnosis → Planning → Implementation → Evaluation
• Accepted in: 🇺🇸 USA (All 50 states + 4 territories), 🇨🇦 10 Canadian provinces, 🇦🇺 Australia (with additional regulatory requirements)

2. NCLEX-PN (Practical Nurse)

The NCLEX-PN is for those seeking to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN).

• Key Features: Focuses on practical nursing responsibilities
• Commonly taken after completing a practical/vocational nursing program

NCLEX Exam Eligibility Criteria

To sit for either the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Graduate from an approved nursing school
• Apply through a state/provincial nursing board
• Receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) email
• Proficiency in English is assumed for test-takers

NCLEX Exam Fees

The cost of the NCLEX varies by country and testing center location:

Additional fees may apply for rescheduling, international testing, and credential evaluation services.

NCLEX Exam Format – How It Works

The NCLEX uses a Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) system to adjust the difficulty of questions based on your responses.

What is CAT (Computerized Adaptive Testing)?

• Every test is unique. After each question, the computer estimates your ability level and chooses the next question accordingly.
• The test ends when it is statistically certain that your performance is above or below the passing standard.

• Test Duration: Maximum of 5 hours for NCLEX-RN
• 85–150 questions (can vary per candidate)
• Question Types: Multiple Choice (single and multiple response), Fill-in-the-blank calculations, Ordered response, Hot spots (image-based), Case studies (Next Gen NCLEX)

Introduction to Next Generation NCLEX (NGN)

Launched in 2023, the Next Generation NCLEX aims to better assess a nurse’s clinical judgment. It introduces realistic case scenarios and dynamic scoring methods.

• Features of NGN:
  • Case-based testing
  • Emphasis on critical thinking and decision-making
  • Enhanced item types: Extended multiple response, Matrix/Grid, Bowtie items, Highlight text

NGN reflects real-world complexity to better prepare nurses for modern clinical settings.

Where is the NCLEX Accepted?

Note: Australia requires nurses to go through an assessment process by Ahpra and Acer in addition to the NCLEX-RN.

How to Apply for the NCLEX Exam?

Step-by-Step Application Process:

• Apply for Licensure to a nursing regulatory body (state/province/territory)
• Register with Pearson VUE and pay the exam fee
• Receive Authorization to Test (ATT) via email
• Schedule your exam at a Pearson Professional Center
• Take the NCLEX and await your results

NCLEX Pass Rates (2023)

• NCLEX-RN (USA, First-Time, US-Educated): ~80–85%
• NCLEX-PN (USA, First-Time): ~83–87%
• Internationally Educated Nurses: Typically, lower pass rates (~45–55%) due to curriculum differences

Preparing thoroughly with NCLEX-specific materials is crucial, especially for international candidates.

What Happens After Passing the NCLEX?

• Your licensing board will verify your eligibility
• You will receive your official nursing license
• You can legally begin practicing as an RN or LPN
• If you fail: You can retake the NCLEX after a 45-day waiting period (may vary by state/province)

Can International Nurses Take the NCLEX?

Yes, international nurses can take the NCLEX if they meet specific requirements. They must:

• Hold a nursing degree equivalent to US standards
• Pass a credential evaluation (e.g., CGFNS)
• Be proficient in English
• Apply to a US state board that accepts international applicants

Popular states for international nurses: New York, Texas, and Illinois.

How to Prepare for the NCLEX?

NCLEX Preparation Tips:

• Use NCLEX prep books like Saunders or Kaplan
• Take online mock tests and question banks
• Practice Next Generation NCLEX scenarios
• Focus on critical thinking, not just memorization
• Set a consistent study schedule (8–12 weeks recommended)

Conclusion: Why the NCLEX is Critical for Your Nursing Career

Passing the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN is not just a milestone—it's a gateway to your professional nursing career. Whether you're an American graduate, a Canadian applicant, or an international nurse looking to practice in the USA, Canada, or Australia, the NCLEX is a mandatory step toward getting licensed. With proper preparation, understanding of the process, and focus on clinical judgment, you can succeed in the NCLEX and begin your journey as a trusted healthcare provider.