The NCLEX-RN, which stands for the National Council Licensure Examination [for] Registered Nurses (RN), is a computer adaptive test that is required for nursing graduates to successfully pass to be licensed as a Registered Nurse in the US, Canada and Australia allowing them to practice their profession in the accepted countries. It’s an exam which assesses the suitability of candidates in nursing services. In other words, anyone who wants to become a Registered Nurse in either the US or Canada, must pass the NCLEX-RN. It is conducted by National Council of State Boards of Nursing Inc in a computerized adaptive testing format testing an individual’s ability to think critically about decisions involving nursing care.
Eligibility & Licensure Requirements are determined by the individual State Board of Nursing where the candidate will practice.
NCLEX-RN
If you are a nurse and want to work in an English-speaking country like the USA, Canada, and Australia, you need to clear an exam called as the NCLEX-RN. This simply is the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) which evaluates your competency as a nurse. While the first step to realising this dream is to clear an English proficiency test like the IELTS or OET, NCLEX-RN is step two to reaching your dream destination.
Next Gen NCLEX (NGN 2023)
The most recent change is the introduction of the Next Gen NCLEX popularly called as the NGN. The Next Gen NCLEX has been introduced in April 2023 and has brought about major changes in the format of NCLEX.
What is the difference between NCLEX-RN and Next Gen NCLEX?
Both the NCLEX RN and the Next Gen NCLEX is to test the proficiency of a nurse in real world scenario. The old version NCLEX required nurses to recall their nursing knowledge and information and then apply it to clinical situations. The Next Gen NCLEX tests the ability of a nurse to first examine and investigate the given patient data and make the appropriate clinical judgments.
Test format of NCLEX-RN
The NCLEX is a computer-adaptive exam run with an on-screen calculator. There are different question types and formats that will appear in the test, based on your performance on the test. The difficulty level of the test will be raised as your answer the questions. The computer-adaptive test runs the questions based on how correctly the candidate responds to the question. The NCLEX-RN format is formulated based on ‘client needs’ and real- world case studies. The questions in this test, more than merely checking your ability to recollect nursing knowledge, assesses how well as a nurse one is able to apply critical skills, interpret data given about the patient, apply theoretical knowledge and make the most appropriate and safe decisions for the patient’s need or care.
How many questions do you need to answer?
The minimum number of questions that candidate appearing for NCLEX-RN will have to answer is 85. As it is an adaptive test, depending on how you perform, the computer may at the maximum put forth 150 questions.
Pre-test questions
Out of the questions asked in the NCLEX, the first 15 are called as pre-test questions. With these questions, the computer evaluates your strengths and weaknesses.
What is the duration of the test?
No matter how many questions a candidate needs to attend, be it 85 or up to 150, the maximum duration of the NCLEX exam is 5 hours. These 5 hours include the introductory session, any restroom breaks taken in between, and the exam.
Question types
- Extended Multiple-Choice questions
- Fill-in-the-blanks
- Drag and Drop
- Chart/ exhibit questions
- Audio Item Questions
- Cloze question or Drop-down question
- Enhanced Hot-Spotting or Highlighting
- Graphics Question
- Matrix or Grid questions
Scoring in Next Gen NCLEX
1. Partial or Full-credit system- If you need to choose more than one right answer, in such questions depending on how you have answered you will be given partial or full credits. This partial or full credit system is further divided into two:
a. + / – scoring- This means that for all right answers you will be given scores, but your scores will be deducted for every wrong answer chosen, which implies negative scoring. This is applicable in some question types.
b. 0/1 scoring- This simply means for all right answers chosen you will be given a score of 1, and at the same time there is no negative marking for wrong answers given.
2. Rationale Scoring System
Lab scores or values
One of the best things about the Next Gen NCLEX is that for calculations, any required reference lab values will be given in the question. The old NCLEX required candidates to memorise these lab values.
NCLEX-RN Exam Registration Process
Here is how you can register for the NCLEX. This step-by-step guide on how to apply for the examination.
- EStep 1: Submit an application to the nursing regulatory body of the country/ state you wish to be licensed or registered.
- Step 2: Ensure to fulfil the requirements listed by the nursing regulatory body of the country/ state you are applying to.
- Step 3: Register for the NCLEX.
- Step 4: Get the authorization information
- Step 5: Schedule your exam
NCLEX Syllabus
There are certain test plan categories. Here is a sample content based on which you can prepare for NCLEX.
1. CLIENT NEEDS
a. Safe and Effective Care Environment
b. Health Promotion and Maintenance
c. Psychosocial Integrity
d. Physiological Integrity
2. INTEGRATED PROCESS
3. CLINICAL JUDGMENT
What are the eligibility criteria in taking the Next Gen NCLEX?
Each regulatory body that you are applying to has different eligibility requirements. The basics that can be considered to check your eligibility for the same are:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Nursing: If you are looking out to apply to Australia or Canada, then you need to have cleared a bachelor’s degree in nursing. For those planning on the USA, even a diploma is considered (GNM).
- Authorization: An ATT- Authorisation To Test is a must.
- You should have submitted your credentials and information
- Application with a nursing board
- Register for the NCLEX
- Payment for NCLEX application should be complete
Is there an expiry date for the NCLEX?
The validity of test results of NCLEX can be considered life-time. This is true if as an applicant, you continue the nursing practice. For any candidate who has cleared the test but discontinued practice for an extended period, then the NCLEX will have to be re-taken.
How many times can a candidate appear for the test?
The possibility of a retake of the NCLEX and the number of times a candidate can appear is a question many aspirants ask. The NCSBN’s policy on retaking the exam allows a candidate to re-appear the test in 45 days after giving an NCLEX test. Certain nursing regulatory boards may ask for longer wait period between tests.
Will the cost of the exam change with the Next Gen NCLEX?
The answer is a definitive no. The costs remain the same.
- NCLEX RN Exam registration Fee : 200 $ (approx. in INR 16,500/-)
- International Exam Scheduling : 177 $ (approx. in INR 15,000/-)
Where can I appear for the exam?
The NCLEX test/ exam centres in India where a student can appear for the test are given below.
1. Hyderabad
2. Pune
3. Surat
4. Mumbai
5. Ahmedabad
6. Chennai
7. Bangalore
8. Gurugram
9. Noida
10. New Delhi
11. Chandigarh
12. Jalandhar
13. Amritsar
What is the age limit to attend the NCLEX?
The major requirements in attending the NCLEX is that a candidate should have a nursing qualification- A bachelors degree in case applying to Australia or Canada, and a General Nursing diploma (GNM) is also accepted if applying to the USA. So age as such is not a factor.
How to prepare for NCLEX-RN?
Getting ready for the test is as easy as walking down a lawn with MIGRONIX’s courses. For the NCLEX-RN preparation course with MIGRONIX, a holistic learning experience is what we guarantee our students. The million happy faces across the world vouch for this. Being flexible in timings, no matter whether you are working or not, preparations for NCLEX-RN is made easy with MIGRONIX.
Can I write NCLEX-RN from India?
The good news is that you can. The US has recognised India as a testing centre for NCLEX-RN which makes it possible for Indians to attend the test from their home country itself. This is a huge relief as the previous scenario required nurses from India to travel to the US to attend the test.
NCLEX-RN examinations are administrated in a computer adaptive form. Therefore, the length format may vary based on a candidate-specific ability. Due to possible variations in exam lengths, Client Need Categories (Subjects) distributions of the individual exam may differ up to ± 3% in each category.
WHY MIGRONIX?
MIGRONIX provides the best NCLEX-RN coaching. Our trainer has experience with pattern of exam conduct for years and the essential skills and knowledge required for nurses trained and practicing in India. With updated study materials and warm approach of learning, every student makes it in their first attempts.
The conduct of NCLEX-RN is carried out by our trainer who has theoretical and practical knowledge necessary to be able to deliver the best educational output. Our updated learning facilities include the right and concise study material that helps a student with just enough information making it easy to learn and tuned specifically for the examination. All the subjects are addressed individually with special attention on most probable areas for questions to be asked to ensure clearing the test at the first chance of a candidate’s test appearance. Besides the academic training, the candidates are also assisted with procuring and submitting necessary documents and apply for examination.
What Will You Learn In This Course?
- Basic Exam format and detailed understanding of all subjects.
- Criteria of clearing the exam with specific technique for meeting them.
- Reasoning skills for attempting the questions the right way.
- Terms and definitions used for the test.
- Time management and skills development.
- Integrated Process and decision making skills.
- Model Test practices.
- Detailed analysis and evaluation of performance.
HOW MIGRONIX NCLEX WORKS?
- ASSESS YOUR LEVEL OF NURSING SKILLS
To begin with, you will be given a sample test and on the basis of your performance which will be evaluated by our experts; you will be counselled on the course package which would fit your need. - START YOUR PREPARATION WITH MIGRONIX NCLEX
Once your enrolment is completed, you may start studying and practicing NCLEX with MIGRONIX. A holistic learning experience is what we guarantee our students. The million happy faces across the world vouch for this.
- EXPERT GUIDANCE
Our trainers undergo regular enhancement of skills through workshops and introduction to the latest teaching practices in place. So, the students get expert guidance from their trainers. We do not compromise on the quality we deliver. With constant check and feedback taken from our students, MIGRONIX has become synonymous with quality.
- INDIVIDUAL ATTENTION
Each student feels at home with MIGRONIX’S training ensured with the individual attention provided by the trainers assigned to them.
- SPECIAL FOCUS
MIGRONIX understands that NCLEX test the questions in this test go beyond just evaluating your ability to remember nursing knowledge. MIGRONIX gives special focus on how well as a nurse one is able to apply critical skills, interpret data given about the patient, apply theoretical knowledge and make the most appropriate and safe decisions for the patient’s need or care. MIGRONIX prepares a student for the NCLEX Syllabus:
A. CLIENT NEEDS
- Safe and Effective Care Environment
- Health Promotion and Maintenance
- Psychosocial Integrity
- Physiological Integrity
B. INTEGRATED PROCESS
- CLINICAL JUDGEMENT
- START YOUR PREPARATION WITH MIGRONIX NCLEX
Once your enrolment is completed, you may start studying and practicing NCLEX with MIGRONIX.
FAQ’s
How Much Time Is Required For NCLEX Prep?
In our experience, students require 4 to 6 weeks to master all the sections of NCLEX. However, it also depends upon the potential of each candidate.
Which Books Are Recommended?
You will not need to buy any books. We will provide you with our complete practice material, and this will be enough for you to get a high score.
Which Center Is Best For IELTS Preparation?
Teaching at MIGRONIX is up to the mark. Our faculty is truly committed to deliver simplified concept-building and problem-solving methodology at all times. As a result, our center is equal to or better than any other high-quality center.
Would it be possible for you to change the timings of my batch on my request?
Yes, we can. We will try to adjust or change if possible.
How Will I Know About Batch Schedule?
You will be knowing at the time of enrolment.
What Will Happen If A Candidate Is Not Able To Attempt The NCLEX Test?
If a candidate has registered for the test but fails to appear then he will be marked as absent and no refund will be issued.