Which NCLEX is easier?

Neither NCLEX-RN nor NCLEX-PN is inherently "easier," as difficulty depends on your nursing focus (RN for broader scope, PN for foundational care) and the Next Generation (NGN) format, which emphasizes clinical judgment over rote memory but offers partial credit, making preparation crucial for both. The NGN version isn't easier, just different, focusing more on complex clinical scenarios, but the RN exam covers more advanced concepts, while the PN focuses on basic tasks and data collection, so the "easier" exam depends on your nursing path and test-taking strengths.

Which NCLEX is harder, PN or RN?

Difficulty of the NCLEX

Many nursing students assert that the NCLEX-RN is more challenging than the NCLEX-PN, primarily because the RN version encompasses a deeper and broader range of concepts, including advanced critical thinking.

Which NCLEX review has the highest pass rate?

While pass rates vary by source and year, NURSING.com (reporting nearly 100%), Archer Review (over 98%), UWorld (around 98%), Hurst Review (around 98%), and Kaplan (near 98%) consistently show exceptionally high reported pass rates, often exceeding 98% for first-time takers, far above national averages. The choice often comes down to personal learning style, as UWorld excels in realistic questions, Kaplan in comprehensive content, and Archer/NURSING.com in adaptive technology, but all are top contenders for high success. 

Which state has the easiest NCLEX-RN exam?

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 new gen NCLEX easier?

The short answer is no; the Next Gen NCLEX is not easier. The NGN is an enhanced version of its predecessor, with new item types and a new scoring system designed to better measure test-takers' clinical judgment skills.

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

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. 

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.

Who has the highest NCLEX pass rate?

There isn't one single "highest" entity, as NCLEX pass rates vary by state and institution, but top performers often include states like New Hampshire and North Dakota, and universities like the University of Pennsylvania, Johns Hopkins, Duke, Emory, and smaller colleges achieving 100% for certain cohorts, with strong first-time pass rates generally exceeding 90% nationally and at top programs. For instance, in recent reports, some individual nursing programs reported perfect 100% pass rates, while states like New Hampshire led with rates over 96%. 

How to pass NCLEX-RN on first try?

How to Study for the NCLEX

1. Review an NCLEX prep book and other study aids.
2. Complete the NCLEX practice exams.
3. Participate in study groups.
4. Listen to recorded lectures or podcasts.
5. Join NCLEX Facebook groups.
6. Watch YouTube lectures.

What is the easiest nurse to become?

LPNs/LVNs are the fastest entry-level nursing program, often taking between one year and 16 months. They have the lowest level of authority and professional autonomy among all nurses.

What are good signs you passed NCLEX?

Good signs you passed the NCLEX include the Pearson VUE "good pop-up" (inability to rebook), no new Authorization to Test (ATT) being issued, the Quick Results service showing a pass (if available), seeing your name added to your state board's license list, and a feeling of confidence with your test shutting off at the minimum question count (like 85 for RNs), though the only official sign is the nursing board's confirmation. 

What is better, ACen or CCNE?

Neither ACEN nor CCNE is inherently "better"; both are respected, U.S. Department of Education-recognized accreditors ensuring quality nursing education, with the main difference being scope: ACEN covers all levels (LPN, ADN, BSN, MSN, DNP), while CCNE focuses on Baccalaureate (BSN) and higher (MSN, DNP) programs, making CCNE more common for advanced degrees and ACEN for foundational ones, but either is excellent for career mobility and advanced studies. Your choice depends on your program level and career goals, but always choose a program accredited by one of these, or another recognized agency like CNEA. 

What is the #1 nursing school in the US?

There isn't one single #1 nursing school, as rankings vary by program (BSN, MSN, etc.) and source, but University of Pennsylvania (Penn Nursing), Duke University School of Nursing, and Emory University School of Nursing consistently rank at the top nationally, with Penn Nursing often #1 globally by QS, while Southern University School of Nursing was recently voted #1 by Nurse.org for its impact. Johns Hopkins also ranks highly, especially for graduate programs. 

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 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.

How many attempts for NCLEX PN?

The NCSBN allows you to take the NCLEX up to eight times per year, with a mandatory 45-day waiting period between attempts. However, different states have their own regulations, which may limit the number of attempts or require additional steps after multiple failed attempts.

Is 50% enough to pass NCLEX?

You can potentially pass the NCLEX with around 50% correct answers because it's a Computerized Adaptive Test (CAT) that adjusts difficulty, aiming for questions you have a 50% chance of answering correctly, but a true passing score depends on demonstrating competency above the passing standard, not a fixed percentage, meaning you could pass with more difficult questions right or fail with easier ones right if your overall ability isn't high enough. The exam stops when the computer is 95% confident you've either passed or failed, potentially around 85 questions or longer, focusing on your ability to keep patients safe.
 

Is 2 weeks enough to study for NCLEX after?

Yes, two weeks can be enough to study for the NCLEX if you've recently graduated, have a strong nursing school foundation, and focus intensely on practice questions and weak areas, but it's tight and depends heavily on your individual readiness, with many recommending a month or more for comprehensive review. Success in two weeks relies on maximizing practice tests (like UWorld, Archer), understanding rationales, and managing anxiety, rather than cramming content. 

What happens if I get 150 questions on NCLEX?

Your test will end at 85 questions if the software determines with a 95% confidence level that you're clearly above (or clearly below) the passing standard. If you get all 150 questions and you're at or above the passing standard, you pass. If you're below the passing standard, you do not pass.

Do hospitals prefer RN or BSN?

Hospitals increasingly prefer and often require nurses to have a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) over just an RN license (which can come from an ADN or diploma), due to studies linking BSN-prepared nurses to better patient outcomes, critical thinking skills, and leadership abilities, with many facilities seeking Magnet status requiring advanced degrees. While ADN-prepared nurses (RNs) can get jobs, BSNs offer better career growth, higher pay, and are vital for Magnet hospitals and many leadership roles, with some states even mandating BSNs within a few years of licensure. 

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 is the #1 nursing school in the world?

There isn't one single "number 1" nursing school globally, as rankings vary, but King's College London and the University of Pennsylvania (Penn Nursing) consistently rank at the very top in the major QS World Rankings, with King's College London holding the #1 spot for the 2025 rankings. Other world-class institutions frequently appearing in global top tiers include Johns Hopkins University (US), University of Toronto (Canada), University of Washington (US), and University of Melbourne (Australia).
 

What to do night before NCLEX?

The Day Before the NCLEX

1. Familiarize yourself with the testing site. ...
2. Familiarize yourself with the testing environment and conditions, and prepare accordingly. ...
3. Do something relaxing. ...
4. Plan to use a test-taking system that you've learned in nursing school. ...
5. Visualize your future as an RN. ...
6. Go to bed on time.

Can you still be a nurse if you fail NCLEX?

It's important to note that the NCLEX exam is the standardized test required to become a registered nurse in the United States. So no, you cannot legally practice as a registered nurse without passing the NCLEX exam.

What state is the hardest to become a nurse?

While there's no single "hardest" state, California, New York, Massachusetts, and Hawaii are frequently cited as challenging due to lengthy processes, extensive documentation (fingerprints, background checks), non-compact status (requiring separate licenses), and unique requirements, with California often noted for its long processing times, even for experienced nurses. Ohio also appears on lists for slow processing, requiring fingerprints and specific documentation before licensure, making the initial hurdle high, according to SkillGigs.