Failing the NCLEX exam can be devastating. As nursing graduates, we’ve already worked so hard to get to this point. But it’s important to remember that this failure does not define you or your potential as a nurse.
In fact, statistics show that 72% of those who retake the NCLEX go on to pass it. With the right mindset and preparation, you can be among that successful group.
This blog will walk you through the steps to accept, understand, and overcome NCLEX failure. Let’s get started!
Accepting the Reality of NCLEX Failure
When those unfortunate words “did not pass” first appear on your screen, it’s normal to feel disappointed, frustrated, and discouraged. Allow yourself to work through this emotional toll before jumping back into studying. Know that thousands before you have gone through the same experience.
Take comfort in the fact that this one test does not reflect your dedication and ability to be an excellent nurse. Stay determined to forge ahead. As you regroup and identify knowledge gaps, take advantage of free resources, including a free NCLEX practice session. With a strategic study plan and perseverance, you can conquer the NCLEX.
The Emotional Toll of Not Passing the NCLEX on the First Try
It’s natural to feel like a failure after not passing such an important exam for your career. Many report feeling embarrassed to tell family and friends about the results. You may even start questioning your nursing knowledge and preparation process. These emotions are valid but try not to let them consume you. Focus on what you can control – your strategy for next time.
Understanding That Failure Does Not Define Your Potential as a Nurse
Just because you did not pass on the first attempt does not mean you won’t become an amazing nurse. Try to reframe these results as a temporary setback on the path toward your goals. Consider the other challenges you’ve overcome through nursing school. This is just another opportunity to demonstrate your grit and perseverance. Believe in your potential.
Highlighting the Statistic: 72% Of Those Who Retake the Exam Pass
It’s easy to feel alone after failing the NCLEX. But remember that you’re far from the only one. Approximately 28% of test takers do not pass on their first attempt. However, 72% of those go on to pass the retake. With dedication and commitment, you have every chance of being in that successful group.
Decoding the NCLEX Candidate Performance Report (CPR)
The detailed NCLEX Candidate Performance Report (CPR) that you receive after failing is invaluable. It highlights your strengths and weaknesses across all the exam content areas. Use this report as a roadmap to guide your next attempt.
Importance of the CPR in Identifying Areas of Weakness
The CPR provides a breakdown of your performance in each NCLEX category, like Safety, Health Promotion, Pharmacology, etc. Identify sections labelled “Below Passing”. These are the areas to emphasize in your retake preparation. For example, if Pharmacology is weak, spend more time studying drug classes and calculations.
How to Use the CPR as a Roadmap for Your Next Attempt
Let the CPR guide how you spend your study time. Rather than taking a generalized approach, use it to structure a targeted game plan. Strengthen weak areas through practice questions, flashcards, and re-reviewing content. Come test day, you will feel confident that all your bases are covered.
Steps to Retake the NCLEX
While waiting for your performance report, there are a few key steps to take to start the retake process:
- Notify your Board of Nursing/Regulatory Body about your plans to retest.
- Re-register with Pearson VUE and pay the exam fee.
- Await your new authorization to test the email.
- Schedule the exam date, allowing for the required 45-day wait period.
Notifying the Board of Nursing/Regulatory Body (BON/RB) About Your Intention to Retake
Every state’s Board of Nursing has a procedure for NCLEX retakes. Look up your BON website for details. Usually, you’ll need to complete a form declaring your plans to retest. This keeps your application active so you can get re-approved once you pass the NCLEX.
Understanding the Fees and Materials Required for Re-Application
You’ll need to repay the exam fee, which varies by state but is around $200-$300. Pearson VUE charges an additional $80 for each retake. Ensure you have the funds before registering again. You may need to resubmit background check and fingerprinting information.
Re-Registering With Pearson VUE and Awaiting the Authorization to Test (ATT) Email
Visit the Pearson VUE NCLEX registration page again and supply payment info when prompted. Within one business day, you will receive your new Authorization to Test (ATT) email. This contains your login details to schedule the retake exam date.
Scheduling the Exam and Adhering to the 45-Day Waiting Period
Use the info in the ATT email to select your exam time. Note that you must wait 45 days between attempts – this period gives you time to sufficiently prepare. Schedule the new date keeping the 45-day rule in mind.
Demystifying the NCLEX: Understanding Its Structure
The NCLEX uses an adjustable Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT) format. Grasping how this system works can help you strategize for the retake.
The NCLEX as a Computerized Adaptive Test (CAT)
CAT works by basing the difficulty level of subsequent questions on your answers to previous questions. If you choose the correct answer, the test presents a harder question next. This allows it to precisely evaluate your proficiency.
How the Cat System Tailors Questions Based on Your Responses
The computer calculates your competence as you progress through the test. When you answer correctly, your proficiency level goes up, triggering more complex questions. Harder questions equal passing. Easier questions bring your proficiency down.
The Significance of Answering Difficult Questions Correctly
With CAT, the difficulty level matters more than the total number correct. Just one tough pharmacology question answered properly demonstrates high ability and can decide if you pass. Stay focused to think through and tackle hard questions.
Strategies for Tackling the NCLEX the Second Time Around
Learn from your previous experience to enhance your retake strategy:
- Read each question thoroughly before choosing an answer.
- Avoid rushing – take the allowed time to think critically.
- Use an NCLEX question bank for abundant practice on difficult questions.
The Importance of Understanding Each Question Thoroughly
The NCLEX aims to evaluate your critical thinking. Read every question and all options fully before answering. Consider all details carefully. Don’t make assumptions or rely on pattern recognition. Focus on what each specific question asks.
The Pitfalls of Rushing Through the Exam
It’s essential to use your full allotted time on each question. Rushing leads to careless errors from misunderstanding the material. Slow down and methodically consider all aspects even if you know the general topic well. Double check for any details you may have missed.
The Value of Using a Question Bank for Practice
An NCLEX-style question bank exposes you to the various formats and difficulty levels you’ll encounter. Practicing challenging questions builds the critical thinking skills needed to tackle unfamiliar questions on exam day. Select a bank with detailed rationales for growth.
Comparison of Top NCLEX Question Banks
| Question Bank | Number of Questions | Question Difficulty | Detailed Rationales | CAT Exam Simulation |
| UWorld | Over 4,000 | Very challenging | Yes | Yes |
| Kaplan | Over 2,500 | Medium | Limited | No |
| NCSBN | Over 1,500 | Medium | Yes | No |
| Saunders | Over 6,500 | Medium | Limited | No |
Selecting a board review question bank with detailed explanations and emphasis on difficult questions, like UWorld, can best prepare you for NCLEX success.
Adopting a Positive Mindset
Your attitude and self-belief also impact your performance. Stay motivated by:
- Reflecting on the challenges you’ve already overcome to get here.
- Trusting in your ability to pass the NCLEX through committed preparation.
Reflecting on Your Journey Through Nursing School and the Challenges Overcome
To get to this point of taking the NCLEX, you’ve already had to push yourself to acquire so much knowledge and skill. Look back and feel proud of all you’ve achieved so far – the late nights studying complex diseases, the long hours in clinical mastering assessments. Let your passion reignite.
Emphasizing the Importance of Strategy, Commitment, and Dedication in Passing the NCLEX
Success on the NCLEX ultimately comes down to strategic prep and the dedication to keep going. Remember that you have what it takes to be an excellent nurse. Commit to consistent practice and review. Stay determined and picture yourself passing. You’ve got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many times can I retake the NCLEX?
You can retake the NCLEX exam up to 8 times in one year but not more than once every 45 days. It’s important to space out your attempts to allow sufficient preparation in between.
2. Is it true that if the NCLEX stops at 75 questions, I’ve passed?
This is a common myth – the test can stop at 75 questions regardless of whether you passed or failed. The exam ends when it has enough data to evaluate your competence. Focus on answering difficult questions correctly rather than the total number.
3. How can I ensure better preparation for my next NCLEX attempt?
Using an NCLEX-style question bank is key to building critical thinking for the actual exam. Select a bank with a high volume of challenging questions, detailed explanations, and CAT simulation. UWorld, in particular, has over 4,000 difficult questions with thorough rationales to boost your readiness.
Final Thoughts
Stay determined during this challenging time. Evaluate your last attempt, develop a strategic new study plan, and know that you have what it takes to pass the NCLEX with commitment and consistency. You’ve made it this far in your nursing journey – let this just be one more stepping stone towards an incredible career. You’ve got this!