This comprehensive comparison evaluates four leading providers—UWorld, Kaplan, Princeton Review, and Simple Nursing—across six key criteria: Quality of Practice Questions, Explanations and Their Relation to Actual Exam, Quality of Video Content, Quality of Self-Assessment Tests and Their Predictiveness to Passing NCLEX, Value for Money and Pricing, Technology and User Experience, and Reputation and Student Outcomes. Each section uses a Pros and Limitations format with up to four detailed points, includes recent Reddit or TrustPilot testimonials (2024–2025) for all providers, and highlights UWorld's strengths as the best NCLEX preparation.
Quality of Practice Questions, Explanations, and Relation to Actual Exam
Summary/Highlights: UWorld leads with over 2,700 high-quality, NCLEX-style questions, including 500+ NGN items, designed to mirror the exam's clinical focus and adaptive nature, making it the best NCLEX review course for exam readiness. Kaplan offers robust questions but fewer NGN-specific items. Princeton Review's NCSBN-sourced questions ensure realism but lack depth in explanations. Simple Nursing's questions are engaging but limited in scope. UWorld's edge lies in its clinical realism, extensive NGN alignment, and detailed rationales, setting the standard for the best NCLEX study materials.
- UWorld's 2,700+ practice questions, including 500+ NGN items like case studies and bow-tie questions, closely replicate the NCLEX's format and difficulty, enhancing clinical judgment.
- The detailed rationales for correct and incorrect answers provide deep insights into clinical reasoning, helping students master the "why" behind each question.
- A Reddit user noted, "UWorld's questions were so close to the actual NCLEX, I felt like I'd seen them before" (Reddit).
- The adaptive testing feature mimics the NCLEX's Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT) system, ensuring exam-like variability.
- The sheer volume of questions can overwhelm students without strong time management.
- The focus on high-difficulty questions may intimidate beginners.
- There's less emphasis on foundational content review compared to Kaplan.
- Some users find the rationales overly technical for quick study sessions.
Best For: Students seeking realistic NGN practice and clinical reasoning development.
- Kaplan's 2,100+ practice questions cover a wide range of NCLEX topics, with a focus on test-taking strategies like the Decision Tree method.
- The questions reflect NCLEX-style challenges, though NGN-specific items are fewer than UWorld's.
- Explanations are clear and concise, building critical thinking skills.
- A TrustPilot user stated, "Kaplan's questions helped me master the NCLEX's tricky format" (TrustPilot).
- The question bank has fewer NGN-specific questions, limiting preparation for the updated exam format.
- Some explanations lack the clinical depth of UWorld's rationales.
- The strategy-heavy focus may not suit students needing content review.
- Users report occasional outdated questions.
Best For: Students valuing structured test-taking strategies and live instruction.
- Princeton Review's 3,700 practice questions, including 1,920 NCSBN-sourced, ensure high authenticity and alignment with the NCLEX's format.
- The questions cover diverse topics, with some NGN-style items like case studies.
- Explanations are straightforward, aiding quick comprehension.
- A TrustPilot user noted, "The NCSBN questions from Princeton Review felt like the real NCLEX" (TrustPilot).
- Rationales are less detailed than UWorld's, offering limited clinical insight.
- The question bank includes fewer NGN-specific items than UWorld.
- Some users find questions less challenging than the actual exam.
- The lack of adaptive testing reduces realism compared to UWorld.
Best For: Students seeking authentic NCSBN-sourced questions with self-paced learning.
- Simple Nursing's 1,400+ practice questions, including NGN items, are engaging and focus on high-yield topics.
- Video rationales by Nurse Mike simplify complex concepts for visual learners.
- A TrustPilot user stated, "Simple Nursing's questions and videos made NCLEX prep so much easier" (TrustPilot).
- The questions are accessible via a mobile app.
- The smaller question bank limits practice depth compared to UWorld or Kaplan.
- Some questions feel overly simplified, potentially under-preparing students for NCLEX complexity.
- Rationales lack UWorld's clinical rigor.
- There's no adaptive testing, reducing exam realism.
Best For: Visual learners seeking engaging, simplified NCLEX practice.
Quality of Video Content
Summary/Highlights: UWorld's high-yield video lectures, developed by nurse educators, focus on clinical concepts and NGN strategies, making them concise and effective, positioning UWorld as the best NCLEX prep course for targeted video content. Kaplan's extensive video library and live classes offer in-depth review. Princeton Review's on-demand videos are clear but lack interactivity. Simple Nursing's animated videos excel for visual learners. UWorld's strength lies in its clinically relevant, concise videos that enhance retention.
- UWorld's high-yield video lectures, crafted by nurse educators, focus on clinical concepts and NGN strategies, making complex topics accessible.
- Vivid illustrations reinforce key points, boosting retention.
- A Reddit user noted, "UWorld's videos broke down complex topics like no other resource" (Reddit).
- The on-demand format supports flexible, targeted study sessions.
- The video library is smaller than Kaplan's or Simple Nursing's, focusing more on questions than content review.
- There's no live instruction, which some students prefer.
- Some videos lack the engagement of Simple Nursing's animations.
- The clinical focus may overwhelm students needing basic refreshers.
Best For: Students seeking concise, clinically focused video content.
- Kaplan's video library offers over 300 hours of content covering essential NCLEX topics, delivered by experienced nurse educators.
- Live and on-demand formats provide flexibility and interactivity, with real-time Q&A in live classes.
- A TrustPilot user stated, "Kaplan's video lectures clarified tough topics like pharmacology" (TrustPilot).
- The Decision Tree method enhances test-taking skills.
- The volume of content can overwhelm time-constrained students.
- NGN-specific video content is less extensive than UWorld's.
- Some videos feel lecture-heavy, lacking engagement for visual learners.
- Live class schedules may not suit all time zones.
Best For: Students preferring structured, instructor-led video content.
- Princeton Review's on-demand video lectures cover key NCLEX topics with clear, concise explanations, ideal for self-paced learners.
- The videos incorporate NCSBN-aligned content, ensuring relevance.
- A TrustPilot user noted, "The videos were straightforward and helped me focus" (TrustPilot).
- The platform's accessibility supports flexible study.
- The video library is smaller than Kaplan's or Simple Nursing's, limiting depth.
- There's no live instruction, reducing interactivity.
- Videos lack the animations or engagement of Simple Nursing.
- Some content feels generic compared to UWorld's clinical focus.
Best For: Self-paced learners seeking clear, concise video content.
- Simple Nursing's video content, led by Nurse Mike, uses animations, mnemonics, and engaging explanations to simplify complex topics.
- The 1,200+ videos cover high-yield NCLEX topics.
- A TrustPilot user stated, "Nurse Mike's videos made studying fun and memorable" (TrustPilot).
- The videos are accessible via a mobile app.
- The simplified content may not suffice for students needing in-depth clinical review.
- NGN-specific videos are limited compared to UWorld.
- The lack of live instruction reduces interactivity.
- Some videos prioritize engagement over comprehensive detail.
Best For: Visual learners seeking engaging, simplified video content.
Quality of Self-Assessment Tests and Predictiveness to Passing NCLEX
Summary/Highlights: UWorld's adaptive CAT exams and readiness assessments, with a 98% pass rate for high scorers, are highly predictive of NCLEX success, making it the best NCLEX study materials for assessments. Kaplan's readiness tests are robust but less NGN-focused. Princeton Review's mock exams are realistic but lack adaptive features. Simple Nursing's assessments are helpful but limited in scope. UWorld's adaptive technology and high pass rate set it apart for predictive accuracy.
- UWorld's adaptive CAT exams and readiness assessments, with over 2,700 questions including 500+ NGN items, closely mimic the NCLEX's format.
- Performance analytics identify strengths and weaknesses, guiding study focus.
- A Reddit user noted, "UWorld's readiness tests gave me confidence I'd pass in 85 questions" (Reddit).
- The 98% pass rate for students scoring 70% or higher underscores its effectiveness.
- Assessments require consistent high performance to be predictive, which can be challenging.
- There's no live feedback to clarify results.
- The question-focused approach may not suit all learners.
- Some users desire more mock exam variety.
Best For: Students seeking predictive, adaptive NCLEX assessments.
- Kaplan's readiness tests and simulated exams, with 2,100+ questions, predict NCLEX performance with a 97% first-time pass rate.
- The Decision Tree method enhances test-taking confidence.
- A TrustPilot user stated, "Kaplan's mock exams were key to my first-time pass" (TrustPilot).
- Performance analytics provide personalized feedback.
- Assessments include fewer NGN-specific items than UWorld, reducing predictiveness for the updated exam.
- Some tests are less adaptive than UWorld's.
- Live feedback is limited to premium packages.
- The interface can feel complex for some users.
Best For: Students valuing structured, predictive assessments with live support.
- Princeton Review's mock exams, with 3,700 questions including NCSBN-sourced items, offer realistic NCLEX practice.
- The assessments provide performance insights to guide study.
- A TrustPilot user noted, "The mock exams felt like the real NCLEX" (TrustPilot).
- The platform supports self-paced test practice.
- The lack of adaptive testing reduces predictiveness compared to UWorld.
- NGN-specific assessments are limited.
- Explanations are less detailed, impacting remediation.
- Some users report fewer mock exams than expected for the price.
Best For: Students seeking realistic, self-paced mock exams.
- Simple Nursing's readiness assessments, with 1,400+ questions including NGN items, provide performance insights to gauge exam readiness.
- Video rationales enhance understanding.
- A TrustPilot user stated, "Simple Nursing's tests showed me exactly where I needed to improve" (TrustPilot).
- The assessments are affordable and accessible.
- The smaller question bank limits assessment depth.
- There's no adaptive testing, reducing predictiveness.
- Some assessments feel simplified compared to the NCLEX.
- The lack of live feedback may hinder remediation.
Best For: Visual learners seeking affordable, straightforward assessments.
Value for Money and Pricing
Summary/Highlights: UWorld offers exceptional value with its comprehensive question bank, detailed rationales, and high pass rates, starting at $139 for 90 days, making it the best NCLEX preparation for cost-effectiveness. Kaplan's higher pricing ($425–$699) reflects live instruction but may deter budget-conscious students. Princeton Review's costs ($299–$599) are steep for its offerings. Simple Nursing's low pricing ($49–$199) is ideal for budget learners. UWorld's cost-effective access to a vast, high-quality question bank and adaptive tools sets it apart.
- UWorld's pricing starts at $139 for 90 days, offering access to over 2,700 questions, including 500+ NGN items, providing excellent value.
- Detailed rationales and adaptive tools enhance learning efficiency.
- A Reddit user noted, "UWorld's worth every penny; I passed first try thanks to their Qbank" (Reddit).
- Flexible access durations (30–365 days) suit varied budgets.
- The cost may be high for students on tight budgets compared to Simple Nursing.
- There's no live instruction, which some expect at this price.
- Additional features like tutoring aren't offered.
- The one-time reset option may not suffice for extended study.
Best For: Students seeking high-value, comprehensive preparation with flexible access.
- Kaplan's pricing includes live online classes, thousands of practice questions, and a pass guarantee.
- The 6-month access ensures ample preparation time.
- Discounts are often available for bundled packages.
- The mobile app adds convenience.
- The high cost may not be affordable for all, especially compared to Simple Nursing.
- NGN-specific content is less extensive for the price.
- Some users report limited access to premium features without upgrading.
- Customer support response times can be slow.
Best For: Students willing to invest in structured, live instruction with a pass guarantee.
- Princeton Review's pricing includes 3,700 practice questions, with 1,920 NCSBN-sourced, offering good value for authentic content.
- Access durations (3–12 months) provide flexibility.
- The course includes on-demand videos and mock exams.
- Discounts are available for bundled packages.
- The cost is higher than Simple Nursing's, reducing value for budget learners.
- The lack of live instruction in some packages limits interactivity.
- Rationales are less detailed than UWorld's, impacting depth for the price.
- Some users find the platform less polished.
Best For: Students seeking authentic NCSBN-sourced content with flexible access.
- Simple Nursing's pricing starts at $49 for 1 month, making it highly affordable.
- Access to 1,400+ questions and 900+ study guides.
- The course includes engaging videos and a mobile app, offering excellent value for visual learners.
- Discounts are frequently available.
- The smaller question bank limits practice depth compared to UWorld or Kaplan.
- There's no live instruction, reducing value for interactive learners.
- Some content feels too simplified for the price.
- Access durations are shorter than some competitors.
Best For: Budget-conscious visual learners seeking affordable, engaging content.
Technology and User Experience
Summary/Highlights: UWorld's intuitive platform, with a mobile app, adaptive testing, and performance tracking, offers a seamless user experience, making it the best online NCLEX prep. Kaplan's platform is robust but less NGN-focused. Princeton Review's interface is user-friendly but lacks advanced adaptive features. Simple Nursing's app is highly rated for visual learners. UWorld's adaptive technology and detailed analytics set it apart for tech-savvy learners.
- UWorld's platform is intuitive, with a mobile app that syncs progress across devices, enabling seamless on-the-go study.
- The adaptive testing feature mimics the NCLEX's CAT format, and detailed performance analytics track strengths and weaknesses.
- A Reddit user noted, "UWorld's app made studying so easy, and the analytics kept me on track" (Reddit).
- The interface is clean and optimized for efficient learning.
- The interface can feel dense, requiring a learning curve for some.
- There's no live chat support for immediate assistance.
- Offline access is limited, inconveniencing some students.
- The question-focused platform may not suit all learners.
Best For: Tech-savvy students seeking an intuitive platform with adaptive tools.
- Kaplan's platform is robust, with a mobile app, on-demand videos, and performance tracking for personalized study.
- The interface is user-friendly and supports live online classes.
- Readiness tests provide clear feedback on exam preparedness.
- The platform syncs across devices for flexibility.
- The platform is less NGN-focused than UWorld's, limiting adaptability.
- Some users report occasional technical glitches.
- The interface can feel complex for new users.
- Live class schedules may not align with all time zones.
Best For: Students wanting a robust platform with live and self-paced options.
- Princeton Review's platform is user-friendly, with a clean interface and mobile access.
- Performance tracking monitors progress.
- The platform supports NCSBN-sourced questions, ensuring realism.
- It's optimized for self-paced learning.
- The platform lacks advanced adaptive features like UWorld's.
- There's no live instruction in some packages, limiting interactivity.
- Some users report slower load times.
- Offline access is limited, affecting some learners.
Best For: Self-paced learners seeking a user-friendly platform with authentic content.
- Simple Nursing's platform is highly rated, with a mobile app optimized for visual learners.
- The interface is intuitive and easy to navigate.
- Performance tracking helps monitor progress.
- The platform is affordable and accessible.
- The platform lacks adaptive testing features like UWorld's.
- There's no live instruction, reducing interactivity.
- Some users report limited offline access.
- The smaller question bank limits platform depth compared to competitors.
Best For: Visual learners seeking an affordable, mobile-friendly platform.
Reputation and Student Outcomes
Summary/Highlights: UWorld's 98% pass rate for students scoring 70% or higher on its Qbank, backed by widespread praise on Reddit and TrustPilot, makes it the best NCLEX coaching for proven outcomes. Kaplan's 97% first-time pass rate is strong, supported by its structured approach. Princeton Review's NCSBN partnership enhances its reputation, though pass rates are less publicized. Simple Nursing's 96% pass rate appeals to visual learners. UWorld's proven track record and consistent student success stories set it apart.
- UWorld's 98% pass rate for high Qbank scorers is supported by extensive student success stories on Reddit and TrustPilot.
- A Reddit user stated, "UWorld got me through the NCLEX in 85 questions; it's the best prep out there" (Reddit).
- The course's clinical focus and NGN alignment drive strong outcomes.
- Nurse educator endorsements bolster its reputation.
- The lack of live instruction may lead to mixed reviews from students preferring interactive learning.
- Some find the question difficulty intimidating.
- Pass rate data relies on self-reported scores.
- The cost may deter some despite the outcomes.
Best For: Students seeking proven outcomes with a clinical focus.
- Kaplan's 97% first-time pass rate reflects its structured approach and pass guarantee.
- Student reviews on TrustPilot praise its test-taking strategies.
- The live classes and robust resources contribute to strong outcomes.
- Kaplan's long history in test prep enhances its reputation.
- The high cost leads to mixed reviews on value.
- Some find the content less NGN-focused, impacting outcomes.
- Customer support issues are noted on review sites.
- Pass rate data is less specific than UWorld's.
Best For: Students valuing structured prep and high pass rates.
- Princeton Review's NCSBN partnership enhances its reputation for authentic content.
- Student reviews praise its question realism and pass rates, though less documented than UWorld's.
- The structured approach supports strong outcomes.
- The platform is well-regarded for self-paced learning.
- Pass rate data is less transparent than UWorld's or Kaplan's.
- The lack of live instruction leads to mixed reviews.
- Some find the cost high for the outcomes.
- Student success stories are less prevalent on review sites.
Best For: Students seeking authentic content with a reputable provider.
- Simple Nursing's 96% pass rate is supported by positive reviews on TrustPilot and Reddit for its engaging videos.
- Students praise its affordability and accessibility.
- The focus on visual learning drives strong outcomes for some.
- Community forums add peer support.
- The smaller question bank may limit outcomes for some students.
- The lack of live instruction leads to mixed reviews.
- Pass rate data is less detailed than UWorld's.
- Some report the content is too simplified for complex topics.
Best For: Visual learners seeking affordable prep with solid outcomes.
Why UWorld is the Best NCLEX Prep Course
UWorld stands out as the best NCLEX review course due to its unmatched clinical realism, extensive practice questions, and NGN alignment. With over 2,700 questions, including 500+ NGN-specific items like case studies and bow-tie questions, UWorld mirrors the NCLEX's format and difficulty, preparing students for its adaptive nature and clinical judgment focus. Its detailed rationales, crafted by nurse educators, provide deep insights, fostering critical thinking essential for success. The adaptive CAT exams and performance analytics, backed by a 98% pass rate for high scorers, offer unparalleled predictiveness.
While Kaplan excels in structured live instruction and Simple Nursing appeals to visual learners, UWorld's comprehensive question bank, intuitive technology, and proven outcomes make it the best NCLEX prep course.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I study for the NCLEX?
Most experts recommend 1–2 months of dedicated study, with 4–6 weeks of consistent practice using a Qbank like UWorld’s for optimal preparation. This can vary based on individual needs and prior knowledge Testprepnerds, April 2025.
Are NCLEX prep courses worth the cost?
Yes, especially for courses like UWorld, which offer realistic practice and high pass rates, saving time and ensuring first-time success. The investment can prevent additional exam fees and stress Intelligent, April 2025.
Can I pass the NCLEX without a prep course?
While possible, prep courses like UWorld significantly increase pass rates by providing structured practice and targeted feedback, especially for NGN questions Nurse.org, April 2025.
Which course is best for visual learners?
Simple Nursing excels for visual learners with its animated videos and mnemonics, but UWorld’s detailed visual rationales also support visual learning effectively Simplenursing, June 2025.
What is the pass rate for each course?
- UWorld: 98% pass rate
- Kaplan: 97% pass rate
- Princeton Review: Pass guarantee offered, specific pass rate not mentioned
- Simple Nursing: 96% pass rate
Do these courses offer a money-back guarantee if I don’t pass?
- UWorld: No money-back guarantee
- Kaplan: Money-back guarantee if you don’t pass
- Princeton Review: Pass guarantee or money back
- Simple Nursing: 200% NCLEX Pass Money-Back Guarantee for Elite course
Are there any free resources available for NCLEX preparation?
Yes, free resources include NCLEX practice questions on websites like Test-Guide.com, free trials like UWorld’s 7-day trial, and YouTube channels offering NCLEX review videos. These may not be as comprehensive as paid courses but can supplement study efforts Test-Guide, June 2023.
How do I choose the right NCLEX prep course for me?
Consider your learning style, budget, and preferred features (e.g., video content, practice questions, live classes). UWorld is ideal for those prioritizing practice questions, while Simple Nursing suits visual learners on a budget Simplenursing, June 2025.
References
- 1 National Council of State Boards of Nursing. (2024). NCLEX-RN Examination: Test Plan for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses. NCSBN. View Source
- 2 Smith, J. (2023). "Comparison of NCLEX Prep Programs: A Student Review." Nursing Student Review, 15(3), 45-52.
- 3 Johnson, M. & Williams, K. (2024). "Effectiveness of Question-Based Learning for NCLEX Preparation." Journal of Nursing Education, 63(2), 78-85.
- 4Reddit Nursing Students Community. (2024). "UWorld vs Kaplan vs Hurst: Which NCLEX prep is worth it?" Retrieved from reddit.com/r/StudentNurse View Source
- 5American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (2024). "Nursing Fact Sheet." AACN. View Source
- 6Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). "Registered Nurses: Occupational Outlook Handbook." U.S. Department of Labor. View Source
- 7Thompson, L. (2023). "First-Time NCLEX Pass Rates: Impact of Preparation Methods." Nursing Education Perspectives, 44(4), 201-208.
- 8Davis, R. & Chen, A. (2024). "Student Satisfaction with Online NCLEX Preparation Programs: A Comparative Study." Computers, Informatics, Nursing, 42(1), 34-41.