Failed the NCLEX®? Start Here!

If you didn't pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX®), you're in good company; more than 83,000 candidates retook the exam last year.1 Many then went on to pass and enter the profession, and you can, too. Take the time to feel what you need to feel, then prepare to retake the exam with the following retake plan.

Your Immediate Next Moves After Failing the NCLEX®

With the right plan, prep, and mindset, you can pass the NCLEX on your next attempt. Each step gets you closer to that goal. Here's where to begin:

1: Receive your results: Your nursing regulatory body (NRB) will send your Candidate Performance Report (CPR) within 6 weeks.

2: Review your CPR: Your CPR breaks down your performance in each test area. Review this for targeted study ideas.

3: Check your state's requirements: Confirm your state's retake requirements and fees. Some states limit the retake frequency.

4: Alert your NRB: Notify your NRB that you plan to retake the NCLEX. Complete required steps to regain eligibility.

5: Re-register with Pearson VUE: Once approved by your NRB, register again with Pearson VUE. You'll receive a new Authorization to Test (ATT).

6: Schedule your retake: Select a retake date at your preferred test site. Your retake date must be at least 45 days after your most recent attempt.

7: Study during the waiting period: Use the 45-day waiting period to rest and create a focused study plan.

8: It's your time to pass: You know what to expect and how to approach it. You've got this!

How to Study If You Don't Pass the NCLEX

The good news is that you've already done this once, which means you're not starting from scratch. You know what the exam feels like, how it's structured, and what challenges to expect, so you're already ahead of the game and ready to study for your next attempt. Five quick study tips are:

1. Understand what went wrong: Evaluate your CPR to identify areas that need improvement and determine which topics require the most attention.
2. Create a study plan: Use your CPR to pinpoint knowledge gaps, and build a schedule that strengthens weak areas while being mindful of burnout.
3. Practice like it's the exam: Set aside time for exam-like questions and full, timed practice tests in a quiet space.
4. Train your clinical judgment: Read answer explanations to understand each option, and use evidence-based advice from real nurses to strengthen your reasoning.
5. Take a self-assessment: Complete 1 or 2 NCLEX-style self-assessments to gauge your readiness and identify any final areas to review.

“The first time I took the NCLEX, I failed at 85 questions. When I got my results, I rescheduled for 60 days later and used only 1 test bank: UWorld. The personal study plan was a game-changer. I set my pace, subject by subject, week by week, and passed.”

— Reddit User

Will Failing the NCLEX End Your Career?

Failing the NCLEX won't keep you from your goals as a nurse. In the short term, not passing the NCLEX can delay your official RN start date because you need a license to practice.

But that doesn't mean your career is on hold. Many healthcare facilities temporarily hire new graduates into roles like nursing assistant, medical assistant, phlebotomist, or medical records technician while they prepare to retake the exam. These positions keep you close to patient care and help you build valuable experience.

You're Still Meant to Be a Nurse

This isn't the ending you wanted, so good thing it's not the end. You're already ahead of the curve: you know what test day feels like, what tripped you up the first time, and what to do differently. The license is coming; it's just a matter of time and persistence. You've got this.