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Are you an aspiring nurse in Australia? Then the only thing standing between you and the nursing license is the NCLEX-RN exam. Everyone wants to pass the NCLEX right away. But what if you don’t? How many times can you take the NCLEX-RN in Australia?
This question often arises from the stress and anxiety associated with multiple failed attempts. Repeated exam failures can lead to significant emotional distress, financial burden, and career delays.
But through this blog, I’ll tell you how to know if you have passed the NCLEX and how many times you can take it if you fail. Let’s begin.
How to Know If You Have Passed the NCLEX-RN in Australia?
It’s always an anxious few days after taking the exam and before receiving the results. Have you passed or failed? Are you set for the licensure or will you have to prepare again?
The Pearson VUE Trick
One of the best ways to get an idea if you have passed the NCLEX is through Pearson VUE. If you are unable to rebook their exam on the Pearson VUE website, it’s often considered a promising indicator. Many speculate that this restriction might be a system’s way of preventing successful candidates from taking the exam again.
But take this trick with a grain of salt. It’s merely an observation, not an official confirmation.
Wait for the Official Letter
The more reliable way to confirm your NCLEX-RN exam results is by getting the official status from the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). The official status won’t be updated to “Registered Nurse” immediately.
After successfully passing the NCLEX-RN, the nursing candidate will have to complete the OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination). After all requirements are met successfully, AHPRA will send the nurse an official letter confirming your eligibility for registration.
But let’s say you don’t pass the NCLEX. Then how many times can you take it in Australia?
How Many Times Can You Take the NCLEX-RN in Australia?
In Australia, the NCSBN (National Council of State Boards of Nursing) allows candidates to take the NCLEX-RN up to eight times per year. However, there is a 45-day cooling-off period between each attempt. This means you can’t take the exam more than once within a 45-day period.
This policy is designed so the candidate gets ample time to prepare for each retake and get the best results.
It’s important to note that while you have multiple attempts, each retake requires additional registration fees and preparation. So, it’s crucial to make the most of each attempt to maximize your chances of success and become the best registered nurse in Australia.
Are You Eligible for NCLEX From Different Australian States?
No, just like Canada and the USA, you won’t have to apply for licensure with state-specific nursing regulatory bodies in Australia. All you need to do is apply directly through AHPRA, which oversees licensure for registered nurses across all Australian states and territories.
To get the most accurate and up-to-date information on NCLEX eligibility in a specific Australian state, consult with the NMBA and the state regulatory board.
What are the NCLEX-RN Retake Regulations Across Australia?
Just like Canada and the United States, Australia’s retake policies are pretty clear. Candidates may attempt the exam multiple times within a year but must wait 45 days between each attempt.
If you are struggling with the exam, you may opt for NCLEX prep course. We will provide you with all necessary practice tests and more, depending on your individual needs.
FAQs on NCLEX Retakes in Australia
Q.1) What if I fail the NCLEX-RN? Can I take it in a different country?
While you can take the NCLEX-RN in different countries, it’s important to note that the exam is regulated by specific nursing boards in each jurisdiction. If you’re an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you’ll likely need to adhere to the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) regulations. That includes the limit of eight attempts per year.
Q.2) What if I exhaust all eight attempts allowed per year?
If you exhaust all eight attempts within a year, you’ll have to wait until the next year to retake the exam. It’s crucial to strategize and prepare effectively to avoid this situation. Consider seeking additional support, such as tutoring or joining study groups, to improve your chances of success.
Q.3) How can I find NCLEX-RN retake policies through AHPRA?
AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) oversees the NMBA, which regulates nursing and midwifery in Australia. While AHPRA doesn’t directly administer the NCLEX-RN, it’s responsible for the overall regulation of health practitioners in Australia.
So for the latest info on retakes, visit the AHPRA website.
Q.4) What should I do if I have to retake the NCLEX-RN?
If you haven’t got the best results and decided to retake the NCLEX-RN, you can review your previous performance, focus on areas of weakness highlighted in the CPR (Candidate Performance Report) and practice accordingly.
Let’s Summarize
Getting straight to the point, you can take the NCLEX-RN in Australia eight times a year. And between every retake, the candidate will have to wait for 45 days. So the nurse can strategize and prepare effectively to minimize the need for retakes.
Remember that each retake involves additional fees and emotional stress. By utilizing available resources, such as review courses, study groups, and practice tests, you can significantly improve your chances of success. If you want to make the best of your NCLEX attempts, sign up for prep course today!
