The NCLEX exam is actually two exams -- one for registered nurses (the NCLEX-RN) and one for practical nurses (the NCLEX-PN). Both are licensure exams designed to evaluate the entry-level nursing knowledge of examinees.
Significance
The main point of the NCLEX exams is to provide standardized assessment of the knowledge required to be a practical nurse or registered nurse. These tests can supplement other assessments of nursing skills.
Method of Administration
The NCLEX exams are given as computerized adaptive tests. In these tests, not all examinees answer the same questions. If you get a question correct, the next question will be more difficult; if you get it incorrect, the next will be easier. The scoring method accounts for this, and it creates scores that are more accurate than traditional methods.
Availability
The NCLEX is taken by appointment. Prior to taking the exam, the candidate must have an authorization to test, which is issued by the board of nursing.The NCLEX is administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.
Cost
The fee for either version of the NCLEX is $200 as of 2010. This can be paid by check or credit card by mail or over the Internet.
