The NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) is an important milestone for aspiring nurses. It is a computerized adaptive pass/fail exam that tests nursing competencies by starting out with easy questions and then increasing in difficulty based on your responses.

Currently, many states allow you to Retaking the NCLEX exam up to eight times per year, as long as there is a 45 day wait period in between each attempt. However, individual state’s boards of nursing may impose additional guidelines and restrictions on retaking the exam. As such, it is critical to check with your local board of nursing for the most up-to-date information and guidelines regarding NCLEX retakes.

How Retaking the NCLEX Impacts Your Nursing Career Path

Failing the NCLEX on your first attempt can be a crushing blow, but it is essential to remember that your success in nursing school was not defined by one test and it will not be defined by your failure on this test either. While it will require self-reflection and a commitment to hard work, it is entirely possible for you to succeed on the NCLEX retake.

Before you can retake the NCLEX, your accredited nursing school must submit a letter of approval to the state board of nursing in order for you to be eligible to register with Pearson VUE. You will also need to pay retake fees and a reapplication fee. These fees can add up quickly and it is crucial to budget for these expenses ahead of time. The good news is that you will be able to take the NCLEX on a temporary license, which can provide some financial relief until your state board processes your application.