After the NCLEX: results and what to do if you don't pass

How results reach you

This guide covers what happens after your exam. Only your regulator releases your result. Don't call the test center, Pearson or NCSBN to ask for it.

Results are sent within about six weeks of your exam, though the timing varies by regulator. If more than six weeks have passed, contact your regulator.

Some U.S. boards offer quick results, which are unofficial and cost a fee. Quick results are not available for candidates seeking licensure in Canada.

If you pass

Your regulator will tell you the next steps for licensure or registration. Each regulator has its own process, so follow the instructions it sends you.

If you don't pass

A failing result comes with a Candidate Performance Report (CPR) from your regulator. The report confirms the result, states how many items you were given, and summarizes your relative strengths and weaknesses based on the test plan. It is meant to guide your study before you retake the exam.

• Read the report and list your weakest test plan categories.
• Go back to your error log and find the topics you missed more than once.
• Check your pacing in practice. If you were rapid-guessing near the end, fix that before you change content.
• Review the Next Generation question formats you struggled with, using the official tutorial.
• Set a new study plan and choose a new test date that fits your regulator's retake rules and your ATT timing.

Retakes

NCSBN publishes a general retake policy that limits how often you can test and requires a waiting period between attempts. Your regulator may have stricter rules, so check it for current retake rules before you rebook.

A retake needs a new registration with Pearson and another exam fee. Check your regulator and Pearson for current amounts.

Don't rebook just to get back on the calendar. Use your practice results to show real improvement first.

Plan your next block

The results and the CPR show you where you stand. Your next study block should be built from them, not from the same plan you used the first time. Use the plan in the guide A 6-week NCLEX study plan, and adjust it to your weak areas.