Nursing graduates are required to take the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) exam following graduation from a nursing school. Graduates are able to retake this exam if they are not successful. Lets take a look at the process of retaking the exam:
General Retake Policies:
- Maximum Attempts: Most states allow candidates to retake the NCLEX up to 8 times per year. Some states specify a maximum total number of attempts (not annual number). For example, Florida allows test takers to attempt the exam a total number of three times. If the test taker is not successful, they are required to take a remediation course. Some states (like Massachusetts and California) allow unlimited attempts.
- Waiting Period: Most states require a a 45-day waiting period between each attempt. The waiting period gives the test taker time to review prior to their next attempt.
- Time Limits: Some states have a time limit in which candidates must pass the NCLEX after graduating from nursing school. For example, Colorado and Virginia require test takers to take their exam within two years of completing nursing school while New York requires graduates to test within five years of graduation.
Tips for Retaking the NCLEX:
If you’ve taken the NCLEX and didn’t pass, it may be helpful to focus on targeted study areas. Review your Candidate Performance Report (CPR). You may want to consider a review course to ensure you are adequately prepared.
If you are unsure what your state requirements are for retaking NCLEX, check your state’s board of nursing website For general NCLEX retake policies, you can visit the national National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) website for detailed retake policies.
