In order to obtain a license to practice nursing, you must pass the National Council Licensure Exam, or NCLEX. The NCLEX measures entry-level competence to practice professional nursing. There are two types of exams: the NCLEX-RN and the NCLEX-PN. The NCLEX-PN is for graduates of LPN programs. These exams are designed by The National Council of State Boards of Nursing, a governmental agency, and are administered to all graduate nurses throughout the United States.
The NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN are comprehensive exams, designed to measure a wide scope of nursing knowledge. The tests are given in a multiple choice format. The majority of the questions measure not only your grasp of nursing concepts, but your ability to apply these concepts in various patient scenarios at progressive levels of difficulty. Tests are administered via computer at nationally contracted testing centers. You take the exam in your state of residence. The NCLEX exams are pass/fail tests.
You should take the NCLEX exam as soon as possible after graduating from nursing school, while the content you have learned is still fresh in your mind. If you have test anxiety or trouble passing tests, you may want to explore an NCLEX preparatory course. While these courses can be costly, it may make the difference in whether you pass or fail.
As a graduate of an accredited nursing school, you have received sound preparation to successfully pass your state licensure exam. Your nursing school can also advise you on reputable NCLEX preparatory courses, should you feel you need additional test-taking practice. For additional information on licensure requirements in your state, visit your State Board of Nurse Examiners website.