What is NCLEX-RN Exam 2025? Dates, Fees, Syllabus & Eligibility

What is NCLEX-RN Exam 2025? Know Dates, Fees, Syllabus & Eligibility

Edited By Prabhjyot Kaur | Updated on Apr 07, 2025 05:12 PM IST

The NCLEX-RN, which stands for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses, is an important exam for anyone aspiring to be a nurse in the United States, Australia or Canada. This exam is key to obtaining your license as a Registered Nurse (RN) and is managed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). The NCLEX-RN assesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for you to practice safely and effectively as a registered nurse.

This Story also Contains

What is the NCLEX-RN Exam 2025?
Key Features of the NCLEX-RN Exam 2025
NCLEX-RN Exam Structure 2025
Difference Between the NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN
NCLEX-RN Eligibility Requirements 2025
How to Apply for the NCLEX-RN Exam 2025?
NCLEX-RN Exam Fees 2025
How is the NCLEX-RN Scored?

What is NCLEX-RN Exam 2025? Know Dates, Fees, Syllabus & Eligibility

What is the NCLEX-RN Exam 2025?

The NCLEX-RN is a standardized examination that measures a nurse’s ability to provide safe and effective care to patients in various healthcare settings. The exam assesses the candidate’s ability to apply critical thinking and clinical reasoning in real-world scenarios, and it covers a broad range of nursing topics such as:

Safe and Effective Care Environment
Health Promotion and Maintenance
Psychosocial Integrity
Physiological Integrity

Study in Ireland

Want to study in Ireland? Explore Universities & Courses

Apply

Key Features of the NCLEX-RN Exam 2025

Particulars	NCLEX-RN Feature
Length	6 hours
Number of Questions	75-265 questions
Adaptive Testing	CAT - Computer Adaptive Test
Content Areas	Safe and Effective Care Environment Health Promotion and Maintenance Psychosocial Integrity Physiological Integrity

NCLEX-RN Exam Structure 2025

The NCLEX-RN exam 2025 is a computerized adaptive test, or CAT. This means is that the questions adjust in difficulty depending on how well the candidate is doing as they progress through the exam. You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and fill-in-the-blank formats.

NCLEX RN Exam Format 2025

Client Need Categories or Subjects	Percentage
Management of Care	20%
Pharmacological and Parental Therapies	15%
Physiological Adaption	14%
Reduction of Risk Potential	12%
Safety and Infection Control	12%
Health Promotion and Maintenance	9%
Psychosocial Integrity	9%
Basic Care and Comfort	9%

Difference Between the NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN

The NCLEX-RN is the exam you need to take to become a licensed Registered Nurse, whereas the NCLEX-PN is for those aiming to be Licensed Practical Nurses or Licensed Vocational Nurses. Although both types of nurses often work in similar environments, their roles and responsibilities vary. For instance, Registered Nurses (RNs) are responsible for assessing patients and their situations, while Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) focus on gathering data.

NCLEX-RN Eligibility Requirements 2025

To take the NCLEX-RN exam 2025, candidates need to meet specific eligibility criteria. While these requirements can differ a bit depending on the state or jurisdiction since each state board of nursing oversees licensure, the general guidelines are the same.

Candidates should have completed a nursing program that is accredited by an agency recognized by the US Department of Education. This could be an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.
A criminal background check is usually part of the licensure application process. It's important to note that certain criminal convictions might disqualify someone from being eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.

Also Read:

How to become a Registered Nurse in Canada?	How to become a Registered Nurse in Australia?
How to Become a Registered Nurse in New Zealand?	How to Become a Registered Nurse in Dubai?

How to Apply for the NCLEX-RN Exam 2025?

Step 1: Apply for Licensure/Registration - Submit your application for licensure or registration to the Nursing Regulatory Body (NRB) in the area where you want to get licensed.

Step 2: Register with Pearson VUE - You will need to register with Pearson VUE. This is where the payment and scheduling for the NCLEX exam will take place.

Step 3: Pay NCLEX-RN Fees - The NCLEX exam cost 2025 can vary depending on the location of your exam. Keep in mind that there are also extra fees if you need to make any changes to your registration.

Step 4: Authorization to Test - Once the NRB confirms your eligibility and you have registered with Pearson VUE, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) email. This email will be sent to the address you provided during registration, and you willl need it to book your NCLEX appointment.

Step 5: Find a Testing Location - The NCLEX is offered at Pearson VUE testing centers all over the globe. You can select the suitable test center for the NCLEX-RN exam 2025.

Step 6: Schedule Exam Appointment - Schedule your exam appointment through Pearson VUE Candidate Services, either online or by phone.

NCLEX-RN Exam Fees 2025

The NCLEX-RN exam fees varies for different countries. In addition, there are extra fees for additional services as well. The table below explains all the related NCLEX-RN exam fees 2025.

NCLEX-RN Fees 2025

NCLEX-RN Fees	NCLEX-RN Fees for US	NCLEX-RN Fees for Canada	NCLEX-RN Fees for Australia
Registration Fee	$200 USD	$360 CAD	$200 USD
Additional International Scheduling fee (+value added tax)	$150 USD	$150 CAD	$150 USD
Change nursing regulatory body after registration fee	$50 USD	$50 CAD	Not Applicable
Change exam type (RN/PN) after registration fee	$50 USD	Not Applicable	Not Applicable
Change exam language (English/French) after registration fee	Not Applicable	$50 CAD	Not Applicable

How is the NCLEX-RN Scored?

The NCLEX-RN is a pass/fail exam, which means candidates do not get a numerical score. Instead, it relies on a computer algorithm to assess whether you are competent enough to pass. It judges t he following criteria-

Ability Level: As you solve questions, whether you get them right or wrong, the computer adjusts the difficulty of the next questionl.
Minimum and Maximum Number of Questions: To determine if you are competent, the exam starts with a minimum of 75 questions. It might end up early if the system gathers enough information. However, the maximum number of questions is 265, which usually happens if the system needs more data to evaluate your abilities.

To pass, you need to meet a standard that shows you have the necessary skills for safe and effective nursing practice. If you answer enough questions correctly, the system will decide that you’ve passed the exam.

Explore More:

Study in Canada	Study in USA
Study in Australia	Study in UK

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How hard is the NCLEX-RN exam?

The NCLEX-RN exam 2025 is often seen as a difficult exam for aspiring nurses. It requires not just critical thinking skills but also solid clinical judgment and the ability to apply nursing knowledge effectively. Although many first-time exam takers pass the exam but, it is essential to prepare thoroughly and have a good grasp of fundamentals.

2. What is a passing score for NCLEX?

The NCLEX does not rely on a percentage or a numerical score to determine if someone passes. Instead, it assesses whether a candidate shows the necessary skills and knowledge expected of an entry-level nurse. It uses a logit scale, where a passing score for the NCLEX-RN is set at 0.00.

3. Can I take NCLEX-RN exam in India?

Yes, you can take the NCLEX-RN exam in India. It is available at international test centers, including several locations in India, through Pearson VUE.

4. Is 2 weeks enough to study for NCLEX-RN?

While there are students who manage to study for the NCLEX-RN in just 2 weeks however, experts suggest to prepare for at least 6 to 8 weeks for a good preparation.

5. How to pass NCLEX-RN on first try?

If you want to increase your chances of passing the NCLEX-RN on your first try, it is essential to have a solid study plan. Make sure to really grasp the concepts and mix in a range of practice NCLEX-RN exam questions, including taking practice tests.