Can You Fail the NCLEX in 145 Questions?
Becoming a registered nurse or a licensed practical nurse is a significant milestone, but one crucial hurdle remains: passing the NCLEX.
Despite thorough preparation, nursing students often worry about failing this crucial exam. In this article, we’ll explore the NCLEX scoring system and offer practical advice on how to approach the test.
Can You Fail the NCLEX in 145 Questions?
Statistically, it’s unlikely you’re going to fail the NCLEX at 145 questions. Although it’s possible to fail the NCLEX PN or NCLEX RN exam after answering 145 questions, the likelihood is relatively low. Most students are better prepared than they realize, which is why the majority pass the NCLEX exams.
Understanding the NCLEX: How Does It Work?
The NCLEX exam’s administration and grading differ from standard testing formats you might have encountered in school. It utilizes a unique method called Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT).
Demystifying Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT)
The CAT approach adjusts questions according to your performance throughout the test. If you’re doing well, you’ll receive more challenging questions, and if you’re struggling, the questions will become easier. This method prevents students from wasting time on excessively easy or difficult questions.
How Is the NCLEX Exam Scored?
There are three fundamental rules for scoring the NCLEX exam:
- The 95% Confidence Level Rule
- The Maximum Length Exam Rule
- The Run Out of Time Rule
In this article, we’ll focus on the Maximum Length Exam Rule (#2).
This rule comes into play if you answer every question on the exam but haven’t achieved the 95% confidence level. The computer will assess your performance, and if you’re above the passing line, you pass; if you’re below it, you fail.
Understanding the 95% Confidence Rule
The 95% confidence interval rule applies when the computer is 95% certain your ability is either above (you pass) or below (you fail) the passing standard. The exam will end once this rule is triggered, but note that you must answer the minimum number of questions for this to occur.
Bouncing Back from an NCLEX Failure
If you’ve failed the NCLEX, don’t let it define you. There are many reasons people fail, and your job is to identify your weaknesses and improve. The NCLEX offers assistance through their candidate performance report, but you’ll need to put in the work to succeed.
Many students find success with a reputable NCLEX prep course. Look for a course with a proven track record, such as:
- The NCLEX Prep Academy (formerly NRSNG Academy)
- Hurst
- Nurse Plus Academy
- UWorld
- Kaplan NCLEX Prep
Invest in Your Success
Stay focused on your preparation, understand the scoring system, and consider investing in a reputable prep course to maximize your chances of success.
