Key Takeaways
- The NCLEX-RN uses Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT) with 85-150 questions and a 5-hour time limit
- The 2026 test plan is effective April 1, 2026 through March 31, 2029
- Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) includes new item types like matrix, cloze, and bowtie questions
- Clinical judgment is measured through the NCSBN Clinical Judgment Measurement Model (NCJMM)
- The exam includes 15 unscored pretest items used for future exam development
About the NCLEX-RN Exam
Quick Answer: The NCLEX-RN is a computerized adaptive test with 85-150 questions administered over 5 hours. The 2026 test plan features Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) item types that assess clinical judgment. You need to demonstrate competency above the passing standard to become a licensed Registered Nurse.
The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) is the licensure examination for nursing school graduates seeking to practice as Registered Nurses in the United States and Canada. The exam is developed and administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).
2026 Test Plan Overview
The 2026 NCLEX-RN Test Plan takes effect April 1, 2026 and remains valid through March 31, 2029. This provides a three-year window of stability for nursing curricula and candidate preparation.
Exam Format
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Testing Method | Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT) |
| Number of Questions | 85-150 items |
| Scored Questions | 70-135 (15 are unscored pretest items) |
| Time Limit | 5 hours (includes tutorials and breaks) |
| Passing Standard | 0.00 logits (ability-based, not percentage) |
| Results | Pass/Fail (available in 48 hours) |
Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT)
Unlike traditional exams where everyone gets the same questions, the NCLEX-RN uses Computer Adaptive Testing. Here's how it works:
- Dynamic Selection: When you answer correctly, the computer selects a harder question. When you answer incorrectly, it selects an easier one.
- Ability Estimation: After each answer, the system re-estimates your ability level.
- Stopping Rules: The exam ends when the system reaches 95% confidence in its pass/fail decision, you reach 150 questions, or time expires.
This means two candidates will never get the exact same test, and finishing with fewer questions doesn't mean you failed.
The Eight Client Needs Categories
The NCLEX-RN content is organized into four major Client Needs categories, with some divided into subcategories:
| Category | Subcategory | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Safe and Effective Care Environment | Management of Care | 15-21% |
| Safety and Infection Prevention and Control | 10-16% | |
| Health Promotion and Maintenance | — | 6-12% |
| Psychosocial Integrity | — | 6-12% |
| Physiological Integrity | Basic Care and Comfort | 6-12% |
| Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies | 13-19% | |
| Reduction of Risk Potential | 9-15% | |
| Physiological Adaptation | 11-17% |
Integrated Processes
Throughout the exam, questions also assess four Integrated Processes:
- Nursing Process: Assessment, Analysis, Planning, Implementation, Evaluation
- Caring: Providing compassionate, individualized care
- Communication and Documentation: Verbal, nonverbal, and written exchanges
- Teaching/Learning: Facilitating patient and family education
Official Resources
For official information and exam registration:
- NCSBN NCLEX Examination — Official exam information
- 2026 NCLEX-RN Test Plan — Official test plan document
- Pearson VUE NCLEX — Registration and scheduling
What is the minimum number of questions a candidate will answer on the NCLEX-RN exam?
Which statement best describes how Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT) works?