NCLEX exam preparation

Before the exam

Before you are able to take the NCLEX-RN, you must obtain an Authorization to Test or ATT. In order to get this, you'll have apply to the nursing board and then complete registration with Pearson VUE, which will cost approximately $200. Plan to start this process well before your planned testing date. Don't schedule your exam until you have obtained the Pearson Registration and ATT as well as an eligibility letter from the nursing board.

As a portion of the preparation process, review the NCLEX-RN Candidate Bulletin and become familiar with the testing format. Keep in mind that many testing centers fill up their testing dates quickly. Don't wait until your ATT is about to expire before you plan to schedule your exam. You may end up having to re-register and re-pay if this happens. Once you have your testing date and location, familiarize yourself with this location.

Exam day

Pearson Professional Centers provide candidate exam day process and rules information. Make sure to review it fully before your exam day. Here are a few key points to keep in mind for the exam.

• Be prepared. When you arrive for the NCLEX-RN, you'll need to present a photo ID and the ATT.
• Dress comfortably. You'll have to leave all outerwear (coats, hats, gloves, etc.) outside of the room where the test will be administered.
• Arrive early. Plan to arrive at the testing center a half an hour before the exam will start.
• Provide biometrics. The following biometrics will be collected before the exam: palm vein scan, fingerprints and signature.
• Obtain materials. This exam is administered on the computer. You will not need any paper or writing implements. Your computer screen will include a calculator and erasable note board.
• Pace yourself appropriately. You'll have six hours to complete the NCLEX-RN. This time frame includes a brief tutorial and two optional breaks, one after two hours of testing and another after three and a half hours of testing. Read each question carefully, as you cannot return to previous questions after you have moved on in the test.
• Finish up. The test concludes with a brief computerized survey. When you have completed it, raise your hand and wait to be dismissed.

After the exam

Remember that while the exam is graded as you complete it, all scores will be reviewed with Pearson VUE afterward and will not be available for test takers until a later date. You will receive your score in the mail appropriately one month after you took the NCLEX-RN.