If you’ve just finished the NCLEX and your computer shut off at exactly 85 questions — you’re probably wondering: Did I pass or fail? You’re not alone. Every day, thousands of nursing graduates anxiously search for answers to this same question.
Let’s break it down and clear the confusion.
Understanding the NCLEX 85-Question Shutdown
When the NCLEX stops at 85 questions, it doesn’t automatically mean you passed or failed. The NCLEX uses Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT), which means the system constantly evaluates your performance as you answer questions.
Once the system is confident enough that you either meet or don’t meet the passing standard, it shuts off — whether at 85 questions, 150, or even the maximum.
So yes, it’s absolutely possible to fail at 85, but for many, stopping at this minimum number is often a sign that you were doing quite well.
Real Stories from Nurses Who Faced 85 Questions
Many people on forums like Reddit and AllNurses have shared their personal experiences, and the pattern is clear: most people who stopped at 85 passed, even when they were convinced they failed.
Here are a few real examples:
1️⃣ Reddit User: cowgirl_meg
“I just took the NCLEX RN and finished in 85 questions but I’ve never felt less confident in a test in my entire life. I thought I failed for sure — but I passed! The Pearson Vue Trick (PVT) worked and my quick results confirmed it.”
2️⃣ Reddit User: trosen19
“Mine shut off at 85 and I sobbed. I promise I didn’t know a single answer on the entire exam. I thought I was done for, but I ended up passing. Have faith in yourself!”
3️⃣ AllNurses User: jcarro
“I need some words of encouragement. My test stopped at 85 and I felt so low. There were lots of ‘select all that apply’ questions, which made me feel like I was guessing. But I PASSED! Such a relief.”
Why the 85-Question Cutoff Often Means You Passed
The NCLEX is designed to measure whether you are above or below the passing standard. If your exam stops at 85, it usually means the system had enough confidence in your performance — especially if you were getting select all that apply (SATA) or higher-level clinical questions.
In fact, many seasoned nurses agree: If you faced hard questions and a mix of case studies, it often signals you were doing better than you thought.
So… Can You Fail at 85 Questions?
Yes, it is possible — but statistically, the odds are in your favor. Most candidates whose tests stop at 85, especially those who faced challenging questions, pass the exam.
The real answer? Don’t panic until you get your official results. The number of questions is only part of the story.
What To Do While Waiting for Your NCLEX Results
- Try the Pearson Vue Trick (PVT).
Many candidates report that the “good pop-up” accurately predicted their pass. - Stay busy.
Waiting for your quick results or state board update is nerve-wracking, so keep yourself occupied. - Believe in your training.
Almost everyone feels unsure after the NCLEX, especially when the test cuts off early. Your doubts don’t reflect your actual results.
Final Thoughts
If your NCLEX shut off at 85 questions, it does not automatically mean you failed — and if you felt the questions were tough, chances are you did better than you think.
Stop worrying about the number of questions and focus on waiting for your official results. And remember, almost everyone who passed went through the same rollercoaster of emotions!
Need NCLEX prep tips or support?
Check out MedCognito’s NCLEX-RN Prep for trusted study guides and resources to boost your confidence.
Reading this after taking the NCLEX today and stopping at 85 questions — fingers crossed! The explanation about how the CAT system makes a decision when it’s confident really helped calm my nerves a bit.
Glad, it helped you