The total number of questions on the NCLEX exam varies depending on the type of test (NCLEX-RN for registered nurses or NCLEX-PN for practical nurses) and the difficulty of your answers, as the exam uses a computerized adaptive testing (CAT) format. Here's a breakdown:
1. NCLEX-RN (Registered Nurse)
- Minimum Questions: 75 questions
- Maximum Questions: 145 questions
- Time Limit: 6 hours
2. NCLEX-PN (Practical Nurse)
- Minimum Questions: 85 questions
- Maximum Questions: 205 questions
- Time Limit: 5 hours
Important Details:
-
Adaptive Testing: The number of questions is not fixed. The exam adapts based on how you answer the questions. The more accurately you respond, the fewer questions you may need to answer. Conversely, if you are answering incorrectly, the test may give you more questions to assess your competency.
-
Test Ends Early: The exam can end before reaching the maximum number of questions if it determines, with a high level of certainty, that you have either passed or failed based on your performance.
So, while the how many questions are on the nclex may present up to 145 or 205 questions, it will stop when enough data has been gathered to make a determination about whether you meet the minimum competency standards required to pass.
