NCSBN
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2026
Complete analysis of NCLEX-RN exam difficulty, pass rates, and strategies to pass on your first attempt.
Pass Rate Overview
~87% (first-time)
Pass Rate
87% Pass
13% Fail
Difficulty Verdict
Relatively Accessible
Recommended Study Time
2-4 weeks
Typical Attempts
Most pass on first try
Why is the NCLEX-RN Pass Rate ~87% (first-time)?
NCLEX-RN has a ~87% (first-time) pass rate — higher than average for medical exams. This doesn't mean you can skip preparation. The 13% who fail typically underestimate the exam or rush their study. At $200 per attempt, failing is costly. The certification is valid for One-time (license renewal varies), so investing in solid prep pays off long-term.
Top Reasons Candidates Fail NCLEX-RN:
30%
Difficulty applying clinical knowledge to vignette-style questions
25%
Inadequate spaced repetition for the vast amount of material
18%
Weak areas in pharmacology or pathophysiology
15%
Test anxiety from high-stakes nature of the exam
12%
Not using question banks (UWorld, Amboss) effectively
How to Beat the ~87% (first-time) Pass Rate
Do This for NCLEX-RN
- UWorld or Kaplan for question banks
- Master prioritization and delegation
- Focus on SATA (Select All That Apply)
- Understand CAT (Computer Adaptive Testing)
Avoid This
- Passive re-reading of textbooks instead of active question practice
- Ignoring First Aid, Pathoma, or Sketchy (proven high-yield resources)
- Studying 16-hour days and burning out before exam day
- Skipping practice question banks like UWorld or Amboss
Ready to Beat the Odds?
Get our complete NCLEX-RN study guide with practice questions.
Other Exam Pass Rates