Editing NCLEX-PN Exam Blueprint (section)

== Format and Administration ==

* '''Computerized adaptive testing (CAT).''' The computer selects each item based on the candidate's performance on prior items, targeting items near the candidate's ability level. Answering correctly leads to a more difficult item, answering incorrectly leads to an easier one. The result is an efficient and precise estimate of ability.
* '''Variable length.''' Under the 2026 test plan the NCLEX-PN ranges from a minimum of 85 items to a maximum of 150 items. On a minimum-length exam the 85 items break down as 52 items drawn from the eight content areas in the stated percentages, 18 clinical judgment case study items, and 15 unscored pretest items. There are 15 pretest items on every examination, and they are identical in style and format to scored items, so candidates cannot tell which items are pretest.
* '''Time limit.''' Five hours, including the tutorial and all breaks.
* '''Pass or fail decision rules.''' The exam ends when the computer is 95 percent certain the candidate's ability is clearly above or clearly below the passing standard, or when the maximum number of items or the time limit is reached. When time expires or the maximum length is reached without that certainty, alternate rules based on the final ability estimate apply.
* '''Scoring.''' The result is pass or fail only. There is no numerical score and no percentage. Candidates who fail receive a Candidate Performance Report showing performance relative to the passing standard in each content area.
* '''Passing standard.''' NCSBN sets a criterion referenced passing standard on a logit scale and reevaluates it every three years. The NCLEX-PN passing standard is '''-0.18 logits''', upheld through March 31, 2029 (NCSBN, 2026b).
* '''Registration and administration.''' Candidates register with NCSBN through Pearson VUE and apply for licensure with a board of nursing. After the board declares eligibility, the candidate receives an Authorization to Test and schedules at a Pearson VUE test center.
* '''Retakes.''' A candidate who fails may retest after a waiting period defined by NCSBN policy and by the board of nursing, commonly 45 days between attempts, with a limit on attempts within a twelve month period. Boards may impose additional requirements.

'''The exam length tells you nothing about the outcome.''' A candidate may pass or fail at 85 items or at 150. Continuing past the minimum simply means the estimate is still near the passing standard.