A common question among test-takers is: How many questions are on the NCLEX? The answer varies due to the exam’s adaptive format. The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) is a critical step for nursing candidates seeking licensure as registered nurses (RNs) or practical nurses (PNs).
Below, we’ll break down the question structure, testing process, and what you need to know before taking the NCLEX.
NCLEX Question Range: Minimum and Maximum
The NCLEX is a computer-adaptive test (CAT), meaning the number of questions you answer depends on your performance. Here’s how it works:
- NCLEX-RN: 75 to 145 questions
- NCLEX-PN: 85 to 205 questions
Every candidate must answer the minimum number of questions. The test continues generating questions until it determines, with 95% confidence, whether the candidate meets the passing standard.
How the Computer-Adaptive Testing (CAT) Works
The NCLEX is not a fixed-question exam—instead, it adapts to the test-taker’s ability:
- Starting Point: The first question is of medium difficulty.
- Adjusting Difficulty: If answered correctly, the next question is slightly harder. If answered incorrectly, the next question is easier.
- Ending the Test: The exam stops when the system is confident that the test-taker is above or below the passing standard or has reached the maximum question limit.
What Determines the Number of Questions You Get?
- Strong performers may pass with fewer questions if they consistently answer correctly.
- Weaker performers may reach the maximum question limit before a pass/fail decision is made.
- Borderline candidates (those close to the passing standard) will receive more questions to determine their competency.
NCLEX Question Categories
The NCLEX assesses test-takers across different clinical areas, ensuring they can apply nursing knowledge effectively. Here’s a breakdown of content categories:
NCLEX-RN Content Areas:
- Management of Care (15–21%)
- Safety and Infection Control (10–16%)
- Health Promotion and Maintenance (6–12%)
- Psychosocial Integrity (6–12%)
- Basic Care and Comfort (6–12%)
- Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies (13–19%)
- Reduction of Risk Potential (9–15%)
- Physiological Adaptation (11–17%)
NCLEX-PN Content Areas:
- Coordinated Care (18–24%)
- Safety and Infection Control (10–16%)
- Health Promotion and Maintenance (6–12%)
- Psychosocial Integrity (9–15%)
- Basic Care and Comfort (7–13%)
- Pharmacological Therapies (10–16%)
- Reduction of Risk Potential (9–15%)
- Physiological Adaptation (7–13%)
NCLEX Time Limit
- NCLEX-RN: Up to 6 hours
- NCLEX-PN: Up to 5 hours
These time limits include pre-exam instructions and optional breaks. Since you don’t know in advance how many questions you’ll answer, it’s best to pace yourself for the full exam duration.
Key Takeaways
- The NCLEX-RN has between 75 and 145 questions, while the NCLEX-PN has between 85 and 205 questions.
- The computer-adaptive testing system determines the number of questions based on individual performance.
- You must answer the minimum number of questions to pass, but high or low performance can result in a shorter or longer test.
- Understanding the NCLEX structure can help you prepare efficiently and manage exam time effectively.
Final Tip: Be Prepared
The best way to feel confident on exam day is to practice with high-quality NCLEX-style questions and develop strong test-taking strategies. By understanding the exam’s structure, you can optimize your study plan and improve your chances of success.
Prepare with MedCognito
Are you preparing for the NCLEX? You can check out the MedCognito NCLEX Prep Course to help you prepare for the exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions do you need to pass NCLEX?
To pass the NCLEX, candidates must answer a minimum of 75 questions within the allotted five hours. The exam is adaptive, meaning the number of questions varies for each test-taker, ranging from 75 to a maximum of 145. Because the test adjusts based on performance, there is no fixed passing percentage—your success depends on consistently meeting the passing standard set by the NCLEX algorithm..
How many total questions are in NCLEX?
The NCLEX can have a maximum of 145 questions. If a candidate answers all 145, their final score is determined based on overall performance. However, if time runs out before reaching the minimum required 75 questions, the exam results in an automatic fail.
How likely is it to fail NCLEX in 85 questions?
Failing the NCLEX with 85 questions is possible but not common. Most test-takers pass, with an 80% first-time pass rate. Many candidates successfully complete the exam in 85 questions.
