NCLEX is the final hurdle for nursing graduates to acquire their licenses. Some of the questions you’ll encounter in the test are based on your medical and book nursing knowledge, while some require you to think critically.
As a nursing grad, you know it’s not over until you pass this pass/fail test. But what score do you exactly need to pass your NCLEX exam?
In this post, Naxlex will share all about NCLEX scoring to help you prepare and pass your exam.
How is the NCLEX Scored?
Unlike traditional exams where a point-based system determines your success, the NCLEX-RN employs a more intricate method known as Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT). The key concept of this test is that it starts with a question of medium difficulty. When you answer correctly, the system presents a more challenging question. Conversely answering incorrectly prompts the system to present a slightly easier question.
This approach tailors the question difficulty level based on your performance, aiming to pinpoint your competency in essential nursing skills and knowledge.
The actual passing score for the NCLEX-RN is not a fixed number and instead the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) sets a minimum passing standard expressed in “logits.” The passing standard is set at 0.00 logits.
A logit of over 0 means that you’ve a higher probability of answering a question correctly and therefore a competent nurse.
A negative score below 0 indicates a lower chance of answering a question correctly and therefore not competent.
The CAT system as a scoring system is broken into;
Candidates ability – this is the amount of entry level skills, knowledge the nursing candidate possesses.
Ability estimate – the computer estimates the nursing candidates’ entry level knowledge, skills and abilities.
Logit – A unit of measurement to report how much better a candidate performs than the average candidate and how much more difficult a question is compared to others.
Passing standard – This is a cut point along an ability range that marks the minimum level of competency required to safely and effectively practice nursing at the entry-level.
What Score Do You Need to Pass the NCLEX Exam?
NCLEX exam focuses on competency and not numbers. It doesn’t function with a traditional pass/fail score based on percentages or points. Instead the CAT system aims to determine with a 95% certainty that your knowledge and skills meet the minimum competency levels expected for a safe and effective nurse.
Here are the key takeaways from the CAT system:
If the system reaches 95 % confidence level that your abilities surpass the minimum standard set, you pass the exam. This will happen after you’ve answered as few as 75 questions(minimum) or after answering all 145 questions(maximum)
If the computer reaches 95% certainty that your performance falls below the minimum standard, you fail the exam.
How Many NCLEX Questions Are There?
The number of questions on the NCLEX can vary depending on your performance throughout the exam.
The minimum number of questions you must handle is 75 while the maximum is 145 questions.
The exam terminates when the CAT system reaches its 95% confidence level, regardless of whether you’ve answered the minimum or maximum number of questions.
Tips to Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam the First Time
To succeed in your NCLEX exam, you must understand its nature and then apply effective study strategies. Use the following tips to boost your passing chances.
Master the Test Format and Content Areas
Before the actual sitting, familiarize yourself with the NCLEX test blueprint. The document is readily available online and outlines the specific content areas and their weightings on the exam. Keep a strong eye on the most heavily tested topics, such as management of care and basic care and comfort.
Utilize NCLEX Preparation Resources
During preparations it’s important to invest in high quality guides and practice tests that mirror the NCLEX question format. Naxlex offers a NCLEX prep course that includes a question bank with thousands of practice questions, all designed to align with the latest NCLEX test plan.
Develop a Study Plan
If you fail to plan, you are preparing to fail your NCLEX exam. Set time aside, specifically for studying NCLEX and you’ll have enough time to review key concepts and practice NCLEX-style questions. Remember careful planning, determination and discipline will help you pass the exam the first time.
Manage Test Anxiety
Feeling nervous is natural and you must understand how to handle it. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing and meditation to control test anxiety and stay calm during the exam.
Develop Test-Taking Strategies
Learn effective techniques like time management, critical analysis of questions, and process of elimination when unsure about an answer. Naxlex’s study materials incorporate test-taking strategies throughout the learning modules, equipping you with the skills to approach exam questions confidently.
Do Not self-Evaluate During the Exam
You might be asking yourself, “Have I answered the previous question right? What if time elapses without me completing the minimum set of questions?” While it might be tempting to start overthinking in the middle of the test, don’t start. You got this!
Conclusion
For you to pass the NCLEX you must answer your questions correctly within a span of 5 hours. When you answer correctly, the test will terminate itself when you reach the minimum threshold of 75 questions.
If you’re answering some questions correctly and others wrong, the test might continue up to the maximum length of 145 before the computer determines if you passed or not.
You must be keen on the time as after the set time elapses, the test will end and you’ll have failed the test.
Naxlex offers NCLEX Resources
Increase your chances of conquering the NCLEX exam by using our efficient ways of mastering the contents of the exam. We offer study guides, personalized study plans, adaptive exams, Next Generation NCLEX prep and much more. Sign up now at Naxlex.com