How to Find NCLEX Test Dates (Even Before You Register)

“When is the next NCLEX exam available in my city?”
“Can I see test dates before I register?”
“What if I’m not ready to pay, but I want to know when I can sit for the exam?”

If you’re asking any of these questions, you’re not alone. Thousands of future nurses, especially international medical graduates (IMGs), are stuck in NCLEX limbo—ready to plan, but not yet ready to pay. So let’s clear the fog.

This post tells you exactly how NCLEX scheduling works, what options you have, and how to avoid costly mistakes that many test-takers make. Just the truth—and a plan.

Can You View NCLEX Test Dates Without Registering?

Short answer: No. 

Longer answer: The NCLEX scheduling system, run by Pearson VUE, only reveals available test dates and times after you’ve:

• Registered for the NCLEX,
• Paid the exam fee, and
• Received your Authorization to Test (ATT) from your nursing regulatory body.

This means:

You cannot “browse” the NCLEX calendar before registering.

There’s no public-facing calendar, no preview button, and no list of future dates by test center.

So… Is There Any Way to Know NCLEX Dates Before You Register?

Yes—but it requires a little hustle.

Here are your three real-world options:

1. Call Pearson VUE Candidate Services

Some test-takers have successfully called Pearson VUE and asked for general availability at their local test centers.

Here’s what to ask:

“Hi, I haven’t registered yet, but I’m planning to take the NCLEX in [City]. Can you tell me if test slots are generally available in [Month]?”

You might get a rough idea like:

“We’re fully booked for July, but there are still some open dates in mid-August.”

What you won’t get:

Exact dates, specific times, or booking options. You still need an ATT for that.

2. Talk to Friends or Peers Who Recently Scheduled

If you know someone who just booked their NCLEX at the same test center, ask them:

• What dates were available?
• How far out was the next slot?
• Were weekend appointments limited?

This gives you a real-world snapshot of current availability.

3. Check International vs. Domestic Centers

If you’re open to testing internationally, you might find more flexible dates. But keep in mind:

• International test centers charge an extra non-refundable fee, plus VAT where applicable.
• To schedule internationally, you’ll still need to register and get your ATT.
  

How NCLEX Scheduling Actually Works (Once You Register)

Here’s the official process, straight from Pearson VUE and the NCSBN:

First-time candidates are typically allowed to schedule exams starting 30 days after their registration request.
Repeat candidates may have to wait 45 days after their last attempt.

So even if you can see the calendar, you might not be allowed to book an earlier date due to eligibility hold times.

Beware of These NCLEX Scheduling Pitfalls

1. Waiting Too Long After Receiving Your ATT

Your ATT has an expiration date. If you wait too long to schedule, you may not find a seat in time—and you’ll need to pay the full exam fee again.

2. Not Getting a Confirmation Email

Pearson VUE sends a confirmation email after you book. No email = no exam scheduled.
Check your spam folder, and if it doesn’t show up, call Pearson VUE immediately.

3. No-Show = Forfeiture

If you miss your exam or don’t cancel with at least 24 hours’ notice, you’ll:

• Lose your exam fee,
• Invalidate your ATT, and
• Get reported to your nursing regulatory body.
  

Scheduling at an International Test Center

Planning to take the NCLEX outside of the U.S. or Canada? Here’s what you need to know:

Still Budgeting for Registration? Read This.

Many test-takers want to see test dates before registering because they’re still saving up for:

• The NCLEX registration fee,
• Study resources like UWorld or MedCognito,
• Travel costs to get to a test center.

That’s completely valid. But here’s the honest truth:

If you’re serious about writing soon, don’t wait too long to register. Dates fill up fast—especially around graduation season and licensing deadlines.

If you’re not ready to register, start preparing with free or low-cost NCLEX resources. When you do register, you’ll be able to move quickly—and take the first available seat.

Final Tips Before You Schedule

• Call early. Register early. NCLEX seats fill up—don’t wait until your ATT is close to expiring.
• Always confirm via email—your schedule isn’t final until you get that message.
• Be flexible with dates and locations to avoid delays.

Need a Smart, Affordable NCLEX Prep Course?

MedCognito offers IMG-friendly NCLEX-RN prep that’s:

• Focused on Canadian and U.S. exam frameworks,
• Designed to fit tight budgets,
• Trusted by internationally educated nurses aiming for licensing success.

Explore the MedCognito NCLEX-RN Course

Frequently Asked Questions

Still unsure? Have questions? Drop them in the comments—or reach out to our MedCognito team. We’re here to help you navigate every step, from study to success.