NCLEX® Pass Rates, Passing Score & Scoring Guide (2026)

There is no published minimum percentage or numeric score required to pass the NCLEX. Instead, the exam uses a statistical measurement called logits to determine competency.

The passing standard represents the minimum ability required for safe and effective entry-level nursing practice. Because the test is adaptive, your final ability estimate must consistently exceed that benchmark.

You will not receive a numeric score report showing how close you were to passing. Candidates receive only a pass or fail decision, emphasizing competency over raw score totals.

You do not receive a numeric NCLEX score or percentage grade. The exam does not provide a scaled score, raw score, or detailed point breakdown.

Instead, candidates receive a pass or fail result based on whether their ability estimate meets the established passing standard. The adaptive scoring system evaluates performance continuously, but that data is not shared.

If you do not pass, you may receive a Candidate Performance Report outlining areas for improvement. However, even this report does not include a numeric score.

The NCLEX uses 3 stopping rules to determine when the exam ends. The most common is the 95% confidence rule, where the system determines whether your ability is above or below the passing standard.

The second rule applies when you reach the maximum number of questions. In that case, your final ability estimate determines the result.

The third rule applies if time runs out. If you have not answered the minimum number of questions, you automatically fail. Otherwise, your current ability estimate is used.

No. The number of questions you receive does not determine whether you passed or failed. Finishing at the minimum number of questions does not guarantee a pass.

You can pass or fail at both the minimum and maximum question limits. The exam ends once the system is confident in your ability estimate.

If your performance consistently exceeds the passing standard early, the test may end sooner. If your ability is near the standard, you may receive more questions.

Not all NCLEX questions count toward your final score. Some are pretest questions used for research and exam development.

These unscored items help ensure the exam remains valid and aligned with current nursing practice. They are mixed in with scored questions and are not identified during the exam.

For that reason, you should treat every question as if it counts. Only scored items are used to determine your final result.

It depends on the question format. For single-answer multiple-choice questions, there is no penalty beyond receiving 0 points for an incorrect response.

However, some multiple-response questions use partial credit scoring. Points may be added for correct selections and subtracted for incorrect ones.

Because you will not know the scoring method in advance, it is best to select only the answers you are confident are correct.

The NCLEX PN and NCLEX RN exams both show higher pass rates among first-time U.S.-educated candidates. Repeat and internationally educated candidates tend to have lower pass rates.

In early 2026, first-time PN candidates in the United States achieved pass rates similar to RN candidates. However, repeat candidates for both exams performed significantly lower.

These differences are more closely tied to preparation quality and clinical readiness than to differences in exam format.

The NCLEX is often considered more challenging than nursing school exams because it focuses on clinical judgment rather than memorization. Instead of recalling facts, you must apply concepts to patient scenarios, prioritize care, and make safe decisions.

The exam also uses Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT), which adjusts question difficulty based on your performance. This can make the test feel harder as questions become more complex when you answer correctly.

While the content is based on entry-level nursing knowledge, the emphasis on critical thinking and decision-making makes the NCLEX feel different from traditional exams. With consistent practice and a strong study plan, most candidates can adapt to this format and succeed.

NCSBN does not set a lifetime limit on the number of NCLEX attempts. However, individual state Nursing Regulatory Bodies determine retesting policies.

Most jurisdictions require a minimum 45-day waiting period between attempts. Some states may limit attempts within a year or require remediation after multiple failures.

Because requirements vary, always confirm policies with your state board. Improving your study plan is key before retesting.

If you fail the NCLEX 3 times, you can still retest, but you must follow your state’s Nursing Regulatory Body requirements. Most states require a 45-day waiting period between attempts.

Some jurisdictions may require additional steps, such as remedial coursework or refresher programs, before allowing another attempt. Policies vary by state.

If you have failed multiple times, focus on strengthening clinical judgment skills and addressing knowledge gaps before retesting.