NCLEX Exam Eligibility — Complete Guide
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45-Day Wait
Retake Policy
NCLEX Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN exam, you must meet specific educational and administrative requirements set by your state Board of Nursing:
Educational Requirements
- NCLEX-RN: Graduate from an approved nursing program — Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), or diploma program
- NCLEX-PN: Graduate from an approved practical/vocational nursing program (LPN/LVN)
- Your nursing program must be approved by the state Board of Nursing where you're applying
Additional Requirements
- Background check: Most states require a criminal background check as part of the application
- Social Security Number: Required for NCLEX registration in the United States
- Valid identification: Government-issued photo ID required on exam day
- Good moral character: Some states require disclosure of any criminal history or disciplinary actions
How Many Times Can You Take the NCLEX?
This is one of the most common questions from nursing students. The answer depends on your state:
Federal Policy
The NCSBN (National Council of State Boards of Nursing) does not limit the number of times you can take the NCLEX. However, there is a mandatory 45-day waiting period between attempts.
State-Specific Limits
While most states allow unlimited retakes, some impose restrictions:
- Most states: Unlimited attempts with 45-day wait between each
- Some states: Limit of 8 attempts total (e.g., some jurisdictions require additional education after a certain number of failures)
- Remediation requirements: Some boards require evidence of additional study or coursework after multiple failures
- Time limits: A few states require you to complete the exam within a certain number of years after graduation
Key point: Each retake requires a new registration with Pearson VUE ($200) and a new Authorization to Test from your state board.
NCLEX Retake Policies and Tips
If you don't pass the NCLEX on your first attempt, don't panic. Here's your action plan:
Step 1: Review Your Candidate Performance Report (CPR)
After a failed attempt, you'll receive a CPR that shows your performance in each content area as either 'Above Passing Standard,' 'Near Passing Standard,' or 'Below Passing Standard.' Focus your study on the 'Below' areas.
Step 2: Create a Targeted Study Plan
- Use a question bank (UWorld, Archer) focused on your weak content areas
- Study for 4-6 weeks before your next attempt
- Complete 100+ questions daily in your weak areas
- Consider a structured review course (Hurst, Kaplan) if self-study wasn't effective
Step 3: Re-Register and Schedule
After the 45-day waiting period, re-register with Pearson VUE, receive a new ATT, and schedule your exam. Many candidates pass on their second attempt with focused preparation.
NCLEX Eligibility Key Facts
🔄 What is the waiting period between NCLEX attempts?
45 days minimum. You must wait at least 45 calendar days from your last attempt before retaking the exam.
💰 How much does each NCLEX attempt cost?
$200 per attempt for the exam fee, plus any state application fees. Some states charge additional fees for re-examination.
📋 What is the CPR?
Candidate Performance Report — sent after a failed attempt showing performance in each content area. Use it to guide your study plan.
🌍 Can international nurses take the NCLEX?
Yes, but they must first have credentials evaluated by CGFNS and meet state-specific requirements including English proficiency testing.
NCLEX Registration Process
The NCLEX registration involves two separate applications:
- Apply to your state Board of Nursing — Submit your application, transcripts, and background check. Wait for eligibility determination.
- Register with Pearson VUE — Create an account at pearsonvue.com/nclex, pay the $200 fee, and wait for your ATT.
- Receive ATT — Your Authorization to Test arrives via email once both your state board and Pearson VUE confirm eligibility.
- Schedule your exam — Book your preferred date and location through your Pearson VUE account within your ATT validity period (60-90 days).
Graduate from a state-approved nursing program Submit application to your state Board of Nursing Complete required background check/fingerprinting International grads: Complete CGFNS credential evaluation Register with Pearson VUE and pay $200 exam fee Receive Authorization to Test (ATT) via email Schedule exam within ATT validity period (60-90 days) Verify you have valid government-issued photo ID If retaking: wait 45 days and review CPR results NCLEX: Pros and Cons
Pros
- nclex practice test — nCLEX exam preparation strengthens your knowledge across all domains
- Passing the exam proves competency to employers and clients
- Study materials and practice tests are widely available
- Exam-based credentials are portable across states and employers
- Clear exam objectives help focus your study plan effectively
Cons
- Exam anxiety can affect performance — practice tests help reduce it
- Registration fees are non-refundable if you miss your test date
- Limited retake opportunities may apply with waiting periods
- Exam content updates periodically — use current study materials
- Testing center availability may require advance scheduling
How many times can you take the NCLEX?
Most states allow unlimited NCLEX attempts with a mandatory 45-day waiting period between each attempt. However, each retake requires a new Pearson VUE registration ($200) and a new ATT from your state board. Some states may require additional education after multiple failures.
Can you take the NCLEX without a nursing degree?
No. You must graduate from an approved nursing education program to be eligible for the NCLEX. For NCLEX-RN, this means an ADN, BSN, or diploma program. For NCLEX-PN, you need an approved practical nursing program.
What happens if you fail the NCLEX 3 times?
You can continue to retake the exam in most states. You'll need to wait 45 days, pay the $200 fee again, and receive a new ATT. However, consider changing your study approach — use your CPR to focus on weak areas and consider a review course.
Is there an age limit for taking the NCLEX?
There is no maximum age limit for taking the NCLEX. As long as you meet the educational requirements and your state board approves your application, you can take the exam at any age.
Can I take the NCLEX before graduating?
No. You must complete all requirements of your nursing program before being eligible for the NCLEX. Your nursing school must verify your completion to the state Board of Nursing before you can receive an ATT.