Never Lose Hope: Mastering the NCLEX Retake Process

Are you determined to pass the NCLEX on your next attempt? Fear not! This comprehensive guide is tailored for you, offering a step-by-step walkthrough to navigate the challenging path of the NCLEX retake process. We will help you prepare for success by addressing the specific areas that need focus and refining your approach. So, let’s start by examining the importance of NCLEX preparation and the key strategies to conquer this crucial exam.

The Importance of Passing the NCLEX

Completing a nursing education is a notable achievement. However, in the United States, a nurse’s readiness to enter the workforce is assessed through the NCLEX. This crucial test assesses a nurse’s theoretical understanding, practical abilities, and capacity to provide empathetic care. Moreover, it’s not just a regulatory requirement; it demonstrates that nurses can competently apply their education in real-life clinical situations, ensuring patient well-being.

Passing the NCLEX RN exam is a significant step in becoming a qualified healthcare professional. In addition, it represents years of rigorous education and training and opens doors to the diverse nursing field. Moreover, NCLEX is a quality assurance measure that ensures that every nurse can deliver high-quality patient care.

Understanding NCLEX Taker Statistics

Before diving into the specifics, let’s understand the broader landscape of NCLEX takers, including first-time candidates and retakers. Additionally, knowing the statistical trends can provide valuable context for your experience. 

In the 2nd quarter of 2023, NCSBN noted a significant rise in passing rates for internationally educated nurses in the NCLEX-RN exam. The passing rate increased significantly from the previous quarter’s 39.86% to 57.69%. Moreover, the successful implementation of the Next Generation NCLEX format contributed to this increase. As a result, it reflects the efficacy of modernized examination methodologies in evaluating candidates’ competencies.

NCLEX Retake Process 

Following an unsuccessful NCLEX examination attempt, reapplication is necessary to retake the test. Below, find a detailed step-by-step guide on the NCLEX retake process.

Contact the National Regulatory Board (NRB)

After an unsuccessful Candidate Performance Report, contact the National Regulatory Board (NRB) for necessary guidance and instructions. Note the mandatory waiting period of at least 45 days between exam attempts.

Initiate re-registration with Pearson VUE

Pay the registration fee. Confirm status with Pearson Vue within two days before re-registering. Additionally, ensure the registration details match the identification document you will use on exam day.

Wait for your Authorization to Test (ATT) to Arrive via the Registered Email

The NRB will review your submission before sending the ATT, which is necessary for scheduling your NCLEX appointment. Check the validity dates on your ATT and remember to take the exam within the specified timeframe by Pearson Vue.

Find a Suitable Testing Venue and Schedule Your NCLEX Appointment

Use the Pearson Vue website for online registration, providing your preferred time, date, and location. Alternatively, contact Pearson Vue Candidate Services via phone, providing your ATT number and relevant details for identity verification.

Please note that NCLEX reapplication procedures may vary from one state to another. Now that the general steps for submitting an NCLEX reapplication have been discussed let’s dive into the specific policies of different US states. 

Understanding State-Specific NCLEX Retake Process and Policies

Navigating the intricacies of state-specific retake policies is crucial. We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of NCLEX retake regulations from various states, providing waiting periods, attempts allowed, and additional requirements. Here are some states that have specific NCLEX retake processes and policies:

Alaska

• The candidate must pass the examination within two years of the first attempt.

• If the candidate is still unsuccessful, they must take a remedial course before another re-examination.

Colorado

• A candidate can only take the NCLEX three times within three years after the first test.

• If the candidate continues to fail, they must evaluate deficiencies, take a refresher course, and submit a petition to retake the NCLEX.

• If the candidate fails a fourth time, they must complete another nursing program.

Delaware

• Waiting for at least 45 days before attempting to retake the exam is recommended.

• Re-register with Pearson Vue and pay the full examination fee again.

• If 24 months or more have passed since graduation, provide evidence of completing an NCLEX review course within the last six months.

Florida

• Candidates have three attempts to pass the NCLEX.

• After three unsuccessful attempts, a remedial course must be completed and approved by the Florida Board of Nursing to qualify for a fourth exam.

Georgia

• The Georgia Nursing Board will send a re-examination application upon failing the exam. Candidates must wait 45 days between attempts. Passing the exam is mandatory within five years of program completion.

Hawaii

• If you fail the NCLEX three times, you must take a remedial course and then repeat the exam within six months of completion.

• Nurse candidates failing NCLEX thrice must complete board-approved remedial courses and provide proof. Afterward, candidates must apply for retesting within six months. Moreover, they can attempt NCLEX up to three more times. If unsuccessful yet again, another remedial course is mandatory before reattempting.

Illinois

• Retake applicants must wait 45 days before testing again.

• Must apply to both Continental Testing Services and Pearson Vue again for examination.

• Applications are valid for three years; after that, retaking the entire Licensed Practical Nurse program may be required.

Indiana

• You must undergo a board review if you don’t pass the NCLEX after three attempts.

• Before being eligible to retest a fourth time, nursing graduates must prepare a presentation for the nursing board indicating their serious intent to be candidates.

Kansas

• Re-examination within more than two years up to five years from graduating requires the nursing board’s permission to retake.

• Retaking NCLEX RN is not allowed after five years. So, candidates must take nursing program completion for re-qualification.

Kentucky

• After two or more failed attempts at the NCLEX, candidates must reapply for licensure and submit a new fee. In addition, they may also be required to undergo a background check and jurisprudence exam.

Louisiana

• For initial licensure, the NCLEX-PN permits four retakes within two years. However, the NCLEX-RN allows four retakes within four years.

• There is a limit to the number of attempts and time frame in which an applicant is eligible for initial licensure by exam.

• Before retaking NCLEX RN, they must reapply via the Nurse Portal and pay the applicable fee. Additionally, additional documents are necessary for the application process.

• If eligible to retest, the applicant must re-register and pay the $200 fee to Pearson VUE. Remember, the examinee will need a new registration and payment for each testing attempt.

Michigan

• Testing applicants must take the NCLEX within two years after graduating.

• After failing three times, you must complete a board-approved remediation program before retaking the test.

• Candidates have a total of six opportunities to pass.

Minnesota

• There is no limit to how many times one can retake the NCLEX exam.

• Requires submission of an examination retake request within eight months of a failure and taking the repeat test within a year.

Mississippi

• Can take the NCLEX up to six times within two years of graduating.

Missouri

• Need to file a repeat examination application and retake the test within one year from the date of application.

Nevada

• Candidates have four tries to pass the NCLEX. After the fourth try, the candidate must enroll in a refresher course before retesting. 

New Hampshire

• Can sit for the exam five times (including attempts in other states).

New Jersey

• If you fail the NCLEX three times, complete remedial training before retaking NCLEX RN for the fourth time.

New Mexico

• Applicants who received education in the US can attempt the exam up to five times within three years of graduation.

• As of December 13, 2022, applicants educated abroad can attempt the exam up to five times. Furthermore, it applies within three years of their initial application to New Mexico.

New York

• A candidate must wait 45 days from the exam administration date to retake the NCLEX in New York.

• Before scheduling another exam attempt, you must obtain a new Authorization to Test (ATT) from the New York State Education Department.

North Carolina

• If you fail NCLEX within a year, create a remediation plan with the state nursing board before retesting.

• If you don’t pass within three years, you must enroll in a new nursing program before retesting.

Oklahoma

• Candidates must take NCLEX within two years after graduating. If not, they must enroll in a refresher course or supervised clinical experience before retesting.

Oregon

• Candidates can take the NCLEX within three years from their initial attempt.

• If eligible to retest, the applicant must re-register and pay the $200 fee to Pearson VUE. Candidates will need a new registration and payment for each testing attempt.

Pennsylvania

• There is no restriction on the number of times a candidate can take the NCLEX exam. You can apply to retake the NCLEX at any time. However, there is an approximate 46-day lapse between each examination. 

South Carolina

• Candidates failing within the first year of graduation can reattempt the exam once every 45 days until a year after the first attempt.

• Candidates who do not pass within the time frame must complete a remediation program before retaking NCLEX RN. Additionally, they must re-register for nursing education by the third testing anniversary.

Tennessee

• If a candidate fails the NCLEX twice in Tennessee, the state board of nursing will examine their case and make recommendations.

• After three years, if the candidate still needs to pass NCLEX, the Board will mandate another nursing program.

Texas

• If a candidate fails to pass the NCLEX within four years, they must finish an approved nursing program before retaking the exam.

Utah

• The candidate must pass the NCLEX within five years of graduation.

• If not, the candidate must complete another approved nursing program before retesting.

Vermont

• If the candidate fails to pass the NCLEX within five years of graduation, they must complete another nursing program before testing again.

West Virginia

• Two failures require participation in remedial activities approved by the state nursing board.

• If a candidate fails four times in a row, the candidate must petition the Board to help address deficiencies.

Wyoming

• A candidate can sit for the NCLEX up to ten times within five years.

To obtain the latest and most accurate information about your state’s retake policy, contact your local Board of Nursing. 

Overcoming the Challenges of the NCLEX Retake Process

The emotional, physical, and mental challenges of taking the NCLEX can be daunting. Nevertheless, there are effective strategies to overcome these hurdles. So, continue reading to discover coping techniques and tips for a successful NCLEX retake journey.

Emotional Impact

Failing the NCLEX can be emotionally overwhelming. So, identify effective coping strategies to navigate the emotional challenges during your NCLEX retake process. For example, this Facebook live conducted by IPASS tackles overcoming the anxiety that NCLEX gives. Moreover, keeping your composure amidst these challenges is the key. Here are some guiding principles to help you navigate through this challenging time:

1. Be Calm Amidst Challenges

Feeling frustrated is normal since exams are part of your learning journey and don’t define you. So, practice mindfulness and meditation to manage stress. Remember, others have faced similar situations and come out victorious, and so can you.

2. Learn and Move Forward

Stay away from ‘what-if’ scenarios since they only bring misery. Learn from your mistakes and strategize to avoid them in the future. In addition, if you need clarification on your errors, contact your friends, colleagues, or family.

3. Embrace Joyful Distractions

Accept the situation and focus on moving forward. Enjoy activities you love, such as cooking, music, movies, drawing, etc. Then, return to studying with a positive mindset after feeling better.

4. Open Up to Trusted Individuals

Share your feelings with a friend, counselor, or family member. Furthermore, talking lightens the burden and provides varied perspectives, aiding in coping.

5. Acknowledge and Value Your Efforts

In their educational journey, one must remember that effort matters. While results are significant, they’re just part of the process. If outcomes disappoint, you can retake the test with adjusted strategies and support. Besides, it’s about persistence, adaptation, and seeking help.

Building Confidence

Overcoming self-doubt and building confidence are crucial, especially when preparing for an exam retake. Here are some practical techniques and examples to help address self-doubt and boost confidence:

1. Positive Affirmations

Start your day by saying positive affirmations to yourself. This includes saying, “I am capable and prepared for this exam. I believe in my abilities.”

2. Visualization

Close your eyes and visualize yourself confidently answering exam questions. So, imagine the feeling of success and let it boost your confidence.

3. Setting Achievable Goals

Break down your study material into smaller tasks. That is because achieving these mini-goals will give you a sense of accomplishment, enhancing your confidence step by step.

4. Preparation and Practice

Practice past exam papers under timed conditions. In addition, your confidence in your abilities will naturally grow as you improve your scores.

Assessing Your Previous Attempt

Conduct a thorough analysis of your previous attempt to identify weaknesses and areas of improvement. Then, craft a tailored study strategy that targets your weaknesses and leverages your strengths. Moreover, a personalized plan significantly enhances your chances of success in the NCLEX retake.

Utilizing NCLEX Review Resources

Exploring various resources is essential for a well-rounded learning experience. Thus, consider enrolling in review courses and taking practice exams to enhance your knowledge and confidence. Additionally, the more diverse resources you explore, the better equipped you’ll be to tackle your educational challenges.

For instance, IPASS Processing offers a comprehensive NCLEX online review program and mentoring academy. This unique program provides personalized guidance and support, setting you up for long-term success. Moreover, by taking advantage of such resources, you can expand your knowledge and strengthen your skills, ensuring your NCLEX success. Furthermore, investing in your education today paves the way for a successful tomorrow.

Maintaining Mental and Physical Health

Optimal performance demands a healthy mind and body. So, check these self-care strategies to ensure you’re at your best physically and mentally during your NCLEX retake process.

1. Prioritize Movement and Exercise

Regular physical activity keeps your body in shape and enhances your mental agility. Hence, opt for a lifestyle that embraces movement over a couch potato mentality.

2. Seek Balance

Striving for a balanced life is the key since chronic stress and overwork can erode your resilience. Thus, balancing your commitments and responsibilities can significantly reduce stress, fostering a resilient mindset.

3. Cultivate Positive Thoughts and Beliefs

Your mental outlook plays a pivotal role in building resilience. That is why embrace positive thoughts and beliefs, challenging self-defeating thoughts and cynicism. Furthermore, a positive mindset can bolster your ability to cope with challenges effectively.

4. Prioritize Your Health

Self-neglect can be detrimental to your health – both physical and mental. Hence, regular check-ups, healthy eating habits, and stress management techniques are essential to building resilience.

5. Nourish Your Body

Proper nutrition is your body’s fuel. So, choose a diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and wholesome foods. Above all, a well-nourished body is better equipped to handle stress and challenges.

6. Embrace Regular and Adequate Sleep 

Sleep is not a luxury but a necessity since adequate rest rejuvenates your body and mind. So, steer clear of a late-night lifestyle. Furthermore, establish a consistent sleep routine to prepare your body and mind for each day’s challenges.

The Takeaway

The NCLEX retake process is undoubtedly a challenging endeavor. However, with knowledge, perseverance, and practical strategies, you can overcome challenges and achieve your nursing goals. Thus, remember that every setback is a setup for a comeback. Best of luck on your NCLEX retake journey! 

Gearing Up to Succeed in Your Career?

Look no further than IPASS! Our incredible team of experienced USRNs has got your back. Using our tailored guide for Next Generation NCLEX, we’ll guide you from the start, offering coaching, pre-assessment, progress check, and post-exam support. Let’s nail this together! Don’t hesitate to give us a call. You can message us directly on our Facebook page, or you can send us an email at [email protected]