The NCLEX is a computerized adaptive test (CAT): every question is chosen from how you answered the ones before. Knowing how it decides a pass takes the fear out of it, and practising on the same rules builds confidence.
After each answer the exam estimates your ability. Answer correctly and the next question is a little harder; miss one and it is a little easier. Over time the questions settle at the level where you get about half right, which is your ability.
Throughout, the exam compares your ability with the passing standard. The NCLEX-RN and the NCLEX-PN each have their own standard.
Every candidate answers at least 85 questions, and no one answers more than 150. The exam ends by one of three rules:
Candidates pass and fail at 85 questions, and pass and fail at 150. A shut-off at 85 only means the exam was sure early. Some questions are unscored trial items, and you cannot tell which.
Our Adaptive Exams follow these rules for NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-LPN: the same minimum and maximum, the five-hour limit, the 95% confidence rule and each exam's passing standard. At the end you see whether you would have passed and your chance of passing.
CAT Exams are 85 questions untimed, with the rationale after each answer and questions you will not meet anywhere else in the bank, so you learn as you test.
Between 85 and 150. The exam stops as soon as it is 95% sure whether you are above or below the passing standard, so many candidates finish at 85.
Up to five hours, including the tutorial and optional breaks.
Not on its own. It only means the exam was sure of the result early, which happens both to candidates who pass and to those who fail.
Adaptive Exams are timed and adapt like the real NCLEX, revealing your result and pass chance at the end. CAT Exams are untimed 85-question exams that show the rationale after each answer.
Create your free account, then add notes, exams or live classes for NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-LPN when you are ready.
