Is the NCLEX pass rate different per state?

Yes, NCLEX pass rates differ significantly by state, even though the exam itself is identical nationwide, because states track results for programs within their borders, reflecting local education quality, curriculum, and demographics, with some states like Florida showing lower rates than the national average, while others are higher.

Which state has the highest NCLEX pass rate?

New Hampshire leads the nation with a 96.5% NCLEX pass rate, followed by North Dakota, Nebraska, Tennessee, and Wyoming. Nationally, 91.2% of test-takers passed the NCLEX-RN on their first attempt.

Is the NCLEX harder in different states?

Not true! The NCLEX is a national exam: which means it's used everywhere in the US (and it's also used in Canada). Whether you test in Florida, Idaho, New York, Wisconsin, or Hawaii, the NCLEX is used nationwide, and it's exactly the same exam wherever you go.

Is NCLEX different in every state?

Each state's nursing board's requirements vary, but the NCLEX exam is the same regardless of which state you intend to become licensed within. Be sure to research the specific requirements of the board of nursing in the state you wish to work.

What state has the easiest NCLEX exam?

The Bottom Line

While each state has its own requirements, New York, Connecticut, and Montana stand out as the easiest states to apply for NCLEX to obtain a nursing compact license. We highly recommend considering these options if you want to make your journey easier.

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

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.
 

Does it matter in what state you take the NCLEX?

Can I take the NCLEX at a test center outside of my desired jurisdiction of licensure/registration? You are able to take the NCLEX at any Pearson Professional Testing location, regardless of where you are applying for licensure/registration. The NCLEX is given year round and is administered by Pearson.

Can you be an RN in two states?

Nurses who live in a compact state can apply for a multistate license if they meet the licensure requirements.

Why did I get 150 questions on NCLEX?

Final Thoughts on 150 Questions on NCLEX

The number of questions you get is just one part of the adaptive process designed to assess your ability to practice nursing safely. The key to passing the NCLEX isn't about how many questions you answer — it's about your overall knowledge and competency.

Which state is hardest to get an RN license?

California, New York, and Hawaii are often cited as having the hardest nursing license processes due to long processing times, extensive documentation (like fingerprints/background checks), and being non-compact states, meaning no license portability; other states like Maryland and Ohio also present challenges with stringent requirements and delays, while Florida has lower NCLEX pass rates, indicating educational preparedness issues rather than application hurdles.
 

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.
 

Can I transfer my NCLEX to another state?

If you passed your NCLEX in a compact state, then you may already have a compact license (or “multi-state license”). That means you can already work in another compact state without getting another license. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

Is 2 weeks enough to study for NCLEX-RN?

Yes, two weeks can be enough for the NCLEX-RN for some graduates with strong fundamentals, focusing intensely on weak areas with practice questions and test strategies, but many experts recommend 4-6 weeks for less confident students to avoid stress and ensure mastery, with some suggesting longer periods for comprehensive prep. A short timeline requires a very structured, intense plan (6+ hours daily) focused on high-yield topics, practice exams, and self-care. 

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. 

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. 

How many nurses pass NCLEX on first try?

Overall first-time NCLEX-RN pass rates surged after the test change in April 2023, climbing from 88.6% in 2023 to 91.2% in 2024. However, through most of 2025, overall first-time pass rates3 have dipped to 87.5% — prompting reflection about what these trends mean for student preparedness and program effectiveness.

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 is the trick for NCLEX?

The Pearson VUE NCLEX trick is an unofficial method to check your NCLEX results by attempting to re-register for the exam on the Pearson VUE website. If you get a message stating that you can't register because you have an open registration, it may indicate a passing result.

Is NCLEX harder the second time you take it?

Is the NCLEX harder the second time? Technically, no. But emotionally, it can feel more intense. But so many have success stories after failing their first, second, and even fourth times.

What is the highest paying compact state for nurses?

For highest-paying compact nursing states, focus on Washington, Colorado, California (though not compact, it pays highest), Texas, Florida, and Arizona, balancing high salaries with cost of living, with states like WA and CO often leading for travel nurses due to high demand and pay, while others like TX, FL, and AZ offer strong compact benefits and good rates.
 

What score do I need to pass the NCLEX?

The Board of Directors then votes to set the passing standard. The NCLEX test plans outline the knowledge, skills, abilities, and clinical judgment expected of entry-level nurses. As of 2024, the passing standards are 0.00 logits (RN) and –0.18 logits (PN), in effect through March 31, 2026.

Do I have to retake the NCLEX if I move?

Yes, the NCLEX can be taken in any state convenient to you. The results will be directed to the board of nursing (BON) where you applied for your authorization to test (ATT) and licensure. You should apply for a license in the state where you intend to legally reside and/or practice.

What happens if you graduate nursing school but don't pass NCLEX?

Nursing candidates who fail the NCLEX receive an individualized Candidate Performance Report (CPR). This document provides an evaluation of your performance in various content areas measured by the exam. It highlights your strengths and shows the areas in which you need to improve.

Can I change my NCLEX location?

Once an NCLEX registration has been created, candidates who want to change the nursing regulatory body where licensure/registration was requested or the type of examination requested must contact Pearson VUE NCLEX Candidate Services and will be required to pay a change fee.