How to Register for the NCLEX

How to Register for the NCLEX

The NCLEX, administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), is designed to test the knowledge and skills necessary for entry-level nursing practice. The essential steps of NCLEX registration include the following: 

  1. Apply for a nursing license
  2. Register with Pearson VUE
  3. Get your receipt of registration and ATT
  4. Schedule a date and take the test

Let’s explore these steps in detail to ensure you’re fully prepared for the NCLEX registration process.

NCLEX Registration Overview

This initial step involves applying to your state board of nursing. You must prove your nursing education, including your accredited nursing program transcripts. Some states may require additional documentation, such as a criminal background check or fingerprinting. 

Then, create an account on the Pearson VUE website, which is the official test administrator for the NCLEX. You’ll need to provide accurate personal information, including your full legal name, as it appears on your government-issued ID. Next, select your exam type (NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN) and the regulatory body you’re applying for licensure.

After completing the online registration, you’ll need to pay the registration fee. The fee varies depending on your target country for licensure, with different rates for U.S., Canadian, and Australian candidates. You can pay using a credit, debit, or prepaid card.

Authorization to Test (ATT)

Once your payment is processed, your registration is submitted to your chosen nursing regulatory body for eligibility verification. You’ll receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) via email if approved. This crucial document allows you to schedule your exam and typically remains valid for 90 days.

With your ATT, return to the Pearson VUE website to schedule your exam date, time, and testing center location. Be sure to choose a date within your ATT validity period.

Registration Confirmation

Candidates should expect confirmation of their NCLEX registration within two business days of submission. If no confirmation arrives within this timeframe, contacting Pearson VUE Candidate Services is crucial to verify the registration status. 

To avoid potential complications, candidates should avoid submitting additional registrations or fees before checking with Candidate Services. If a candidate decides to submit a new registration, they should first cancel the payment on their initial submission to prevent duplicate charges.

Registration Time Limit for NCLEX

NCLEX registrations remain active for 365 days when the Nursing Regulatory Body (NRB) determines candidate eligibility. Once deemed eligible, candidates must schedule and take the exam within the validity period specified in their Authorization to Test (ATT) email.

If the NRB does not confirm eligibility or denies it within the 365-day window, the registration expires, and the exam fee is forfeited. In this case, candidates must complete a new registration and pay another exam fee.

It’s important to note that candidates cannot simultaneously have two active NCLEX registrations of the same exam type. Attempting to register again before the current registration expires will result in the second registration being denied, and the fee paid will not be refundable. Therefore, careful attention to registration timing and status is crucial to avoid unnecessary complications and expenses.

How to schedule the NCLEX 

Candidates have three convenient methods to schedule their NCLEX exam:

  • Online Scheduling: Log into your Pearson VUE account to select your preferred test date, time, and center.
  • Phone Scheduling: Contact Pearson VUE NCLEX Candidate Services directly. Before stating your preferences, you’ll need to verify your identity using your name and Authorization to Test (ATT) number.
  • Third-Party Scheduling: Register through the Pearson VUE website using a payment method provided by a third party, such as your nursing school or employer.

Upon successful scheduling, Pearson VUE will email you a Confirmation of Appointment. It’s crucial to schedule your exam promptly after receiving your ATT to ensure your preferred date and location are available. 

Delaying the scheduling process may result in limited seat availability or ATT expiration. If either occurs, you’ll need to repay the $200 exam fee and restart the registration process.

When to Take the NCLEX

Determining the optimal time to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) is a crucial decision for nursing graduates. While there’s no universally perfect time, several factors should be considered when scheduling your exam.

Most experts recommend taking the NCLEX as soon as possible after graduating from nursing school. This approach capitalizes on the knowledge and skills fresh in your mind from your recent studies. Ideally, aim to take the exam within two to three months of graduation.

Remember that your Authorization to Test (ATT) is valid for 90 days. Schedule your exam within this window to avoid additional fees and registration processes. Some states also have specific timeframes within which you must take the NCLEX after graduation, so check your state board of nursing’s requirements.

When do most students take the NCLEX?

Most nursing graduates take the NCLEX within 1-3 months after completing their nursing program. This time frame allows them to complete necessary paperwork, receive their Authorization to Test (ATT) and engage in focused preparation while their nursing education is still fresh. 

However, individual timelines may vary based on personal readiness, state requirements, and life circumstances. The key is to balance timely testing with adequate preparation to maximize the chances of success on this crucial exam.

Can you take the NCLEX before you graduate?

No, taking the NCLEX before graduating from an approved nursing program is impossible. Graduation is a prerequisite for NCLEX eligibility, as the exam is designed to test the knowledge and skills of entry-level nurses who have completed their education. 

The process requires candidates to finish all coursework and clinical hours, graduate from their program, apply to the state board of nursing for licensure, receive their Authorization to Test (ATT), and only then schedule and take the NCLEX.  

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Scheduling the Exam

A frequent error is waiting too long to schedule after receiving the Authorization to Test (ATT), which expires after 90 days. This delay can result in limited test date availability or even ATT expiration, requiring a costly and time-consuming re-registration process. 

Another mistake is failing to verify personal information during registration, such as name spelling or identification details, which must match the ID presented on test day. Candidates sometimes also neglect to consider their optimal testing conditions, scheduling at inconvenient times or locations that may impact their performance. 

Some test-takers overlook the importance of confirming their appointment details, risking missed exams due to misunderstandings about date, time, or location.  

Can I Retake the NCLEX?

The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) allows candidates to retake the NCLEX after a mandatory 45-day waiting period from their last exam date. This cooling-off period provides time for additional study and preparation. 

Candidates can take the NCLEX up to eight times per year, though some states may have additional requirements or limitations on the number of attempts. To retake the exam, candidates must re-register and pay the full fee for each attempt. 

What are the two steps of registration for the NCLEX process?

The two main steps of NCLEX registration are:

  1. Applying to your state board of nursing for licensure/registration.
  2. Registering for the NCLEX with Pearson VUE and paying the exam fee.

How do I set up an NCLEX exam?

To set up an NCLEX exam:

  1. Register with Pearson VUE and pay the exam fee.
  2. Wait for eligibility confirmation from your nursing regulatory body.
  3. Receive your Authorization to Test (ATT).
  4. Schedule your exam through your Pearson VUE account within the ATT validity period.

How much does it cost to register for the NCLEX exam?

The NCLEX registration fee is $200 for U.S. licensure candidates, $360 CAD for Canadian licensure candidates, and $200 USD for Australian licensure candidates. Additional fees may apply for international testing or registration changes.

How do I register for NCLEX in the USA?

To register for the NCLEX in the USA:

  1. Complete an accredited nursing program.
  2. Apply to your state board of nursing for licensure.
  3. Create an account on the Pearson VUE website.
  4. Register for the NCLEX and pay the $200 fee.
  5. Wait for your Authorization to Test (ATT).
  6. Schedule your exam through Pearson VUE once you receive your ATT.