Is NCLEX PN hard?

Yes, the NCLEX-PN is considered a challenging, high-stakes exam that tests critical thinking and application of knowledge, not just memorization, using a Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) format that adjusts question difficulty, making it tough but achievable with focused study and understanding of clinical decision-making. Many find it hard due to content breadth, application focus, and the pressure, but proper preparation and strategy, like focusing on medium-difficulty questions, can lead to passing.

What is the pass rate for the NCLEX-PN?

The table below shows the pass rates for US-educated, first-time test-takers of the RN and PN NCLEX for the past several years. We can see that pass rates began to decline from 2020 through 2022. The year NGN was launched, the pass rate for 2023 increased to 88.56% for the NCLEX-RN and 86.67% for the NCLEX-PN.

How to pass the NCLEX-PN on the first try?

Tips to pass the NCLEX-PN exam the first time

1. Understand the exam format.
2. Know the question type.
3. Concentrate on core content areas.
4. Discover your learning style.
5. Create a study plan.
6. Take advantage of study resources.
7. Remember your ABCs.
8. Analyze yourself during test prep.

Is LPN school harder than RN?

RN school is generally considered harder than LPN school due to its longer duration (2-4 years vs. 12-18 months), broader scope, higher level of critical thinking, and more complex coursework focusing on independent assessment, teaching, and care planning, whereas LPN programs are shorter, more condensed, and teach skills within a more limited scope, though both are demanding and intensive in different ways. LPN programs often cover the first part of an RN curriculum but at a faster pace, making them feel difficult due to speed, and RN programs add significant depth in assessment and management. 

How long should I study for NCLEX-PN?

The Short Answer: Typical Study Timelines for the NCLEX

3-month plan (12 weeks): Works well for most students, allowing enough time to review content thoroughly, practice questions daily, and take full-length tests without feeling rushed.

Is the NCLEX Exam Really That Hard? Tips to Make It Easier

How difficult is the NCLEX-PN?

Difficulty of the NCLEX

The PN version is rigorous, but it has a greater focus on the practical aspects of nursing. For students who prepare effectively for the exam, the pass rate for both exams is high. If you don't pass, you can retake the test after 45 days.

Is 70% enough to pass NCLEX?

You can potentially pass the NCLEX with a 70% on practice tests, as it indicates good readiness by showing consistent performance above the typical 60-70% target, but the actual NCLEX is adaptive and doesn't use percentages; you pass by consistently demonstrating nursing competency above a set standard (0.00 logits), so a 70% score on a practice question bank (QBank) is a strong sign you're ready for the real exam's variable difficulty.
 

What pays more, LPN or RN?

Registered Nurses (RNs) generally make significantly more money than Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) due to their advanced education, broader scope of practice, and greater responsibilities, with RNs earning roughly $30,000 to $40,000 more annually on average, though salaries vary by location, experience, and specialty.
 

What class do most nursing students fail in?

While it varies, Pharmacology is widely considered the most failed or difficult class in nursing school due to its vast content on drug classifications, mechanisms, and side effects, requiring intensive memorization and critical thinking. Other challenging courses often cited include Pathophysiology, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Health Assessment, and foundational science courses like Anatomy & Physiology.
 

Is LPN a lot of math?

Some schools will include college-level math classes in the program, but most only require students to have high school-level math or a limited amount of college algebra or statistics. The math prerequisites for an LPN certificate are usually less advanced math courses like algebra or statistics.

Is 50% enough to pass NCLEX?

Yes, you can pass the NCLEX with around 50% of questions right because it's not about a simple percentage; the Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) adjusts difficulty, aiming for you to get roughly half the harder questions correct to prove competency above the passing standard. You pass by demonstrating consistent ability, not by hitting a specific score, with the test stopping when it's 95% sure you've met or missed the passing line, which often happens at the minimum 75-85 questions. 

What are good signs you passed NCLEX?

Good signs you passed the NCLEX include the Pearson VUE trick (getting the "good pop-up" saying you can't re-register), your Pearson VUE account showing "exam complete" and no ATT, seeing your name on the State Board of Nursing's license verification site (often with an RN/LPN number), and feeling confident after the exam with tough questions appearing at the minimum question count (like 85) before it shuts off. The only official confirmation is the State Board of Nursing, but these indicators provide strong clues.
 

What is the easiest state to pass the NCLEX PN?

If you are looking for the best state for NCLEX or easiest state to pass NCLEX, here are the top 5:

• #1 Connecticut. ...
• #2 Montana. ...
• #3 New York. ...
• #4 Northern Mariana Islands. ...
• #5 South Dakota.

How long do NCLEX-PN results take?

Official results are ONLY available through the NRB and will be sent to candidates within six weeks after taking the exam.

What is the #1 nursing school in the US?

There isn't one single "#1" nursing school, as rankings vary by source and focus (BSN, MSN, etc.), but University of Pennsylvania (Penn Nursing) and Duke University consistently rank at or near the top in major lists, with Penn Nursing often cited as #1 globally by QS World Rankings and Duke #1 for BSN by U.S. News & World Report (2026 data). Other top contenders include Emory University and Johns Hopkins University, while Southern University was recently recognized as the best by Nurse.org.
 

Is it good if NCLEX shuts off at 85?

Yes, the NCLEX stopping at 85 questions is generally a good sign, indicating you likely passed because the Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT) algorithm found you consistently above the minimum passing standard for safe nursing practice; however, it can mean you failed if you were consistently below that standard, but statistics heavily favor passing at 85 questions, showing strong performance. 

What disqualifies you from being an RN?

You can be disqualified from becoming an RN due to certain criminal convictions (especially violent, sexual, or drug-related felonies), substance abuse issues, fraudulent application, or past disciplinary actions in other states, with specific rules varying by state, though serious offenses often lead to automatic denial or intense review by the Board of Nursing (BON). Factors like dishonesty, child/elder abuse, theft, fraud, and crimes against vulnerable populations are major red flags, requiring review of the offense's nature, time passed, and evidence of rehabilitation. 

What is the toughest degree in nursing?

BSN or Bachelor of Science in Nursing is considered the toughest degree in the world according to the Guinness book of World Records.

How many times can you fail RN boards?

Candidates are permitted to take the NCLEX exam up to eight times within a calendar year, adhering to a mandatory waiting period of 45 days between attempts. It is crucial that candidates pass the exam within three years of their graduation from nursing school.

Can an RN make $200,000?

Yes, a Registered Nurse (RN) can make $200,000 or more, especially through travel nursing, high-demand specialties (ICU, OR, ER), working in high-cost-of-living areas, taking extensive overtime, and pursuing advanced roles like Nurse Practitioner (NP) or leadership positions, though it's often a combination of these factors rather than a standard salary for most RNs. Factors like location, experience, and specialization are crucial, with travel nurses in high demand often reaching this income, while experienced NPs in niche areas or C-suite roles can also achieve it. 

Why is LPN not considered a nurse?

LPNs work under the supervision of an RN or a physician and can't legally diagnose or treat patients. However, many long-term LPNs have the experience and training to unofficially assess a patient's condition with expertise.

Can you make 6 figures as an LPN?

Yes, an LPN can make six figures, but it usually requires strategic moves like travel nursing, working in high-demand specialties (like long-term acute care or neonatal), securing roles in expensive regions, taking significant overtime, or pursuing advanced certifications, as typical staff LPN roles often fall below $100k. The most direct paths involve agency/travel work in lucrative areas or specializing in high-paying, difficult-to-staff niches. 

What are good signs you passed your NCLEX?

Good signs you passed the NCLEX include the Pearson VUE trick (no rebook option, "good pop-up"), your test shutting off at the minimum questions (75 RN, 85 PN) after difficult ones, getting challenging SATA/priority questions, and eventually seeing "Pass" on your state's Board of Nursing (BON) website or getting an active license status, but only the official BON results are 100% certain.
 

Do some people never pass the NCLEX?

According to the most recent data from 2024, the pass rate for first-time, U.S.-educated NCLEX-RN candidates is approximately 91%. This statistic is encouraging and shows that the vast majority of graduates who sit for the exam pass on their first attempt.

Who has the highest NCLEX pass rate?

There isn't one single "highest" NCLEX pass rate as it changes yearly and by program, but top performers often see 100% rates, with schools like The College of New Jersey (TCNJ), Cedar Crest College, and Bellingham Technical College (WA) hitting perfect scores recently, while states like New Hampshire and North Dakota consistently lead nationally for first-time pass rates in recent years.