There’s one key step between you and your NCLEX® test date: receiving your Authorization to Test (ATT). Whether you're wrapping up nursing school or deep in your NCLEX prep, here’s everything you need to know. The sooner you get your ATT, the sooner you can schedule your high-stakes nursing exam and move forward in your career.
What Is the NCLEX ATT?
The ATT is an official document typically sent via email that permits you to take the NCLEX. You’ll receive your ATT after your application and registration have been approved by your State Board of Nursing (BON) and Pearson VUE, the official testing vendor for the NCLEX.
The ATT serves as your ticket to the NCLEX and includes essential information such as your ATT number, eligibility dates, and instructions for scheduling your exam. You can’t register for a test date without an ATT, so it's paramount to secure one as soon as possible.
How to Apply for Your Nursing Exam ATT
The ATT for your nursing exam is only valid for a short window — usually 90 days. If you do not test within this time frame, you must repeat the application process.
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility With Your State Board of Nursing
Each state has different requirements, so start by applying for licensure with your BON. This typically involves submitting transcripts, background checks, and an application fee.
Step 2: Register for the NCLEX With Pearson VUE
While your state board reviews your application, you can register for the NCLEX at Pearson VUE's NCLEX portal. There, you’ll create an account and indicate the exam type (NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN). Your registration will remain open for up to 365 days.
Step 3: Pay the NCLEX Exam Fee
To complete your registration, you’ll need to pay the appropriate exam fee(s) directly through Pearson VUE. These fees vary depending on your unique situation and desired licensure:
- U.S. licensure: $200
- Canadian licensure: $360 CAD
- International scheduling fee: $150 (if testing outside the U.S. or Canada)
- Changes after registration: $50 (if switching nursing regulatory body or exam type)
Step 4: Wait for Your ATT Email
Once your registration and state board approval are processed, Pearson VUE will email you your ATT.
Step 5: Schedule Your NCLEX Exam
Now that you have your ATT, save a copy for your records. Then, log back into your Pearson VUE account to schedule your test date according to your ATT’s validity dates.
How Long Does It Take to Receive Your ATT?
In most cases, you’ll receive your ATT within 3 to 4 weeks after completing your state application and Pearson VUE registration. However, delays can happen, especially during graduation season or if your application requires additional processing.
Here are several common reasons your ATT might take up to 12 weeks:
- Delays at the State Board due to high application volume
- Missing or incorrect documents in your BON application
- Payment issues during NCLEX registration
- Peak testing periods, including May through July
You can avoid delays by triple-checking your paperwork, submitting everything simultaneously, and monitoring your email.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where is my ATT email?
Check your spam folder. If it isn’t there, log into your Pearson VUE account. If it’s still missing, contact Pearson VUE and your BON to confirm your application was processed.
How do I schedule my NCLEX exam?
Make sure your ATT is still valid and you’re logging in with the correct Pearson VUE credentials. If problems persist, contact Pearson VUE support.
Can I extend my ATT?
No. Unfortunately, ATT extensions are rarely granted. If your ATT expires, you must reapply with your BON and repay the exam fee.
Can I change my ATT date?
Yes. As long as your ATT is still valid, you can reschedule your NCLEX exam through your Pearson VUE account. Just be sure to make changes at least 24 hours in advance to avoid fees or forfeiting your spot.
Do I need to bring my ATT to the NCLEX exam?
No. You won’t need to present your ATT at the testing center. Your exam appointment is already linked to your ATT through Pearson VUE. However, to avoid issues at check-in, consider bringing a printed copy just in case.
Read More About the NCLEX
- Knowing what’s on the test can help you stay 2 steps ahead. Learn how the NCLEX is structured, what types of questions you’ll face, and how it evaluates clinical judgment.
- Before you can test, you’ll need to register and confirm your eligibility. This includes applying through your nursing regulatory body (NRB) and receiving your Authorization to Test (ATT).
- We know you’re aiming for a passing score — but what is a passing score? This guide breaks down how the NCLEX is scored and what it takes to meet the passing standard.
- Build a study strategy that works — a week-by-week plan tailored to your learning pace and test date.
- If you want to test for success, you’ll need a solid game plan. Review the NCLEX-RN test plan to learn what content areas you’ll be tested on and how to prioritize your studying.
- Explore the NCLEX-PN test plan to find out which topics carry the most weight and how to prep accordingly.
