How to Take the NCLEX Practice Exam

RN and LPN candidates can prepare for the NCLEX with online practice tests.

All nursing students who are seeking a nursing license are required to take and pass the National Council Licensure Examination examination. Two versions of the NCLEX are available: the NCLEX-RN, for registered nurses, and the NCLEX-PN for practical nurses. Both versions of the NCLEX can be prepared for through schooling and the use of online practice tests.

Instructions

1. Navigate to a website that offers NCLEX practice exams. Both the NCLEX Reviews and Test Prep Review websites (see Resources) offer free NCLEX practice tests. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing offers a comprehensive review for the NCLEX, which includes practice exams and access to the NCSBN information database, for a fee. As of December 2010, the fees are: $50 for a 3 week course, $70 for a 5 week course, $100 for an 8 week course and $160 for the 15 week course.

2. Access the NCLEX practice exams on the site of your choice. Tests are labeled as "NCLEX Practice Tests" or "NCLEX Practice Exams."

3. Take the test, marking down your answers as you go. The questions on the test are multiple choice and include choices A, B, C and D. The correct answers may include more than one choice per question.

4. Grade your test using the answer key found at the bottom of the page.

References

• National Council of State Boards of Nursing: NCLEX Exam

Resources

• NCLEX Reviews: NCLEX Practice Tests
• Test Prep Review: NCLEX Practice Tests
• National Council of State Boards of Nursing: Nurse Practice Tests