The state licensing exam is known as the NCLEX (National Counsel Licensure Exam). Registered nurses take one version and licensed practical nurses another. Each state administers a separate version of the exam. In order to take the exam, candidates must receive permission from their state board of nursing. Once permission has been obtained, the candidate can apply to take the test. The test is administered via computer. A student sits in front of a computer and answers multiple-choice questions. Questions start with items that have been judged of medium difficulty. Candidates who successfully answer the questions are given questions judged more difficult. This process continues until the computer assigns a grade of pass or fail to the test taker.
The NCLEX tests a student's knowledge of subjects related to nursing. Questions are based on material taught in nursing classes. The exam does not cover material taught in other classes such as communications or economics. Both LPNs and RNs face exams that cover subjects including health promotion and maintenance, integrity-based care and comfort and reduction of risk potential. RN's will be tested on the subjects in more depth. Students should focus attention on the material in question. Carefully read all notes from nursing classes. If you have textbooks from your nursing school days, look through them again. If material still remains unclear, consider contacting one of your nursing professors to help clear up any questions you might have.
Students who are preparing for the nursing boards should allow enough time to fully concentrate on the exam. Exams are given at multiple times during the year. Consider scheduling the test a month in advance to give yourself adequate time to review materials related to the exam. Ideally, take at least one practice exam under timed conditions before the day of the test. Once you start the actual test, allow enough time to read thoroughly the questions and answers. Examinees are allotted up to six hours to take the test. A test taker may devote as little or as much time as she needs to answer a single question.
Consider registering for a preparatory class to help you study for the NCLEX. Preparatory classes help you review important materials and work with an experienced testing instructor. The instructor can help you pinpoint where your understanding is strongest and where it needs improvement. Talking to other students in the class can help you bond with other members of the nursing community. Fellow student nurses may also be able to offer tips that you may not have thought of before.