What Happens If You Fail the NCLEX?

You walked out of the NCLEX exam feeling confident, convinced you’d aced the test and were one step closer to becoming a registered nurse. But when the results arrived, reality hit hard—you didn’t pass.

Failing the NCLEX can feel like a crushing blow, especially after months of preparation and anticipation. However, this setback, while disheartening, is not the end of your nursing journey. Many aspiring nurses face this hurdle and go on to pass the exam on their next attempt.

So, what happens if you fail the NCLEX? That’s what we will cover through this blog. We’ll help you understand how an NCLEX prep course can help and why you need a strategic NCLEX study plan. Let’s begin.

What Happens If you Fail the NCLEX?

Failing the NCLEX test can be a tough experience, but it’s important to remember that it doesn’t define your ability to become a great RN. Here’s what happens after a failed attempt and the steps a nursing student can take to move forward:

Don’t Panic

The initial wave of disappointment is natural, but immediate panic will cloud your judgment. Take a moment to breathe, acknowledge the setback, and remember that this is a temporary hurdle, not a career-ending event. Focus on gathering information rather than succumbing to emotional distress.

What You Need to Do

• Pause and Reflect: Allow yourself a brief period to process the initial disappointment, but set a time limit.
• Control Your Breathing: Deep, deliberate breaths can calm the nervous system.
• Focus on the Next Step: Shift your attention from the emotional response to the practical steps ahead.

Read Your Candidate Performance Report (CPR)

CPR that comes with your official results is your key to understanding where you fell short. It provides a detailed breakdown of your performance in each content area. Analyze it meticulously. Identify your weaknesses, pinpointing specific topics that require further study. This document is not a judgment, but a diagnostic tool for improvement.

What You Need to Do

• Content Area Analysis: Pay close attention to the percentage scores in each of the major client needs categories.
• Identify Weak Areas: Look for patterns of low performance across related topics.
• Note Question Types: Observe if you struggled with specific question formats (e.g., select-all-that-apply, prioritization).

Understand the Retake Policy

Each jurisdiction has specific rules regarding NCLEX retakes, including waiting periods and application procedures. According to the NCSBN, you must wait a minimum of 45 days between exam attempts. The 45-day waiting period is standard across jurisdictions, though state-specific rules may vary slightly. Don’t rely on assumptions; get the official details.

You can retake the NCLEX-RN up to 8 times per year, adhering to the mandatory waiting period. Confirm specific retake policies and any additional requirements with your state’s nursing regulatory body (NRB).

What You Need to Do

• Waiting Period: Confirm the exact number of days required before you can retest.
• Application Process: Detail the steps for re-registering and paying the exam fee.
• Jurisdictional Differences: Be aware that retake policies can vary significantly between states or regions.

Create a Study Plan

A structured study plan is paramount. Don’t simply repeat your previous methods. Tailor your plan to address the weaknesses identified in your CPR. Incorporate diverse study techniques, such as practice questions, content review, and simulation exercises. Consistency and targeted effort are key.

What You Need to Do

• Structured Approach: Break down study sessions into manageable chunks.
• Focus Areas: Prioritize topics where you struggled, as indicated in your CPR.
• Consistency: Dedicate regular time to studying to build momentum and confidence.

Prepare for the Next Attempt

Preparation goes beyond just studying. Simulate exam conditions as closely as possible. Practice time management, develop test-taking strategies, and familiarize yourself with the NCLEX format. Consider utilizing resources like review courses, study groups, or tutoring to enhance your preparation.

What You Need to Do

• Practice Test Questions: Use reputable question banks that mimic the NCLEX format and difficulty.
• Simulation Exams: Take full-length practice exams under timed conditions.
• Test-taking Strategies: Learn and apply techniques for analyzing questions and eliminating incorrect answers.

Practice Self-care

Failing the NCLEX can be emotionally draining. Prioritize self-care. Engage in activities that reduce stress, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones. Maintaining a healthy balance is crucial for both your mental and physical well-being.

What You Need to Do

• Stress Management: Implement relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Prioritize adequate sleep, nutritious meals, and regular exercise.
• Social Support: Connect with friends, family, or support groups for emotional encouragement.

Reframe Your Mindset

View this experience as a learning opportunity, not a failure. Adopt a growth mindset, focusing on improvement and resilience. Believe in your ability to succeed, and approach your next attempt with confidence and determination.

What You Need to Do

• Growth Mindset: View the setback as an opportunity to learn and improve.
• Positive Self-talk: Replace negative thoughts with affirmations and encouraging statements.
• Focus on Progress: Track your progress and celebrate small victories along the way.

Schedule Your Retake

Once you’ve diligently prepared and feel confident, schedule your retake. Don’t delay unnecessarily, but also don’t rush. Choose a date that allows you ample time for final review. Committing to a specific date will provide structure and motivation.

What You Need to Do

• Strategic Timing: Choose a date that allows sufficient time for review but avoids prolonged anxiety.
• Registration Confirmation: Double-check all registration details and ensure you have received confirmation.
• Logistics Planning: Plan for travel, accommodation, and other logistical needs well in advance.

Finally, make sure you get FBNPC’s NCLEX prep program. Our structured study plan and expert tutors will help get the best results in the test.

When to Retake the NCLEX?

Retaking the NCLEX is all about when you are ready. You need to balance preparedness with the need to move forward. Here’s a breakdown of key factors:

Mandatory Waiting Period

The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) generally requires a minimum of 45 days between NCLEX attempts. This period allows for sufficient time to study and process the previous exam experience.

Individual Readiness

While the 45-day minimum exists, rushing back into the exam is rarely advisable. Prioritize thorough preparation. Evaluate your Candidate Performance Report (CPR) to pinpoint weaknesses.

Develop a targeted study plan and dedicate adequate time to mastering those areas.

State Board Regulations

Nursing regulatory bodies (NRBs) in each state or jurisdiction may have additional retake requirements. Always verify specific regulations with your state board of nursing. Some states have limits on the number of retakes or may require remedial education after multiple failures.   

Emotional and Mental Preparation

Retaking the NCLEX can be emotionally taxing. Ensure you’ve addressed any test anxiety or emotional stress before scheduling your next attempt. A positive mindset and confidence are crucial for success.

Schedule your retake only after you’ve diligently reviewed your CPR and addressed your weaknesses. And get our help with the NCLEX exam prep. We’ll give you an idea on what went wrong and when you should go for the exam retake.

How to Retake the NCLEX?

Retaking the NCLEX involves a systematic approach, combining administrative steps with focused preparation. Here’s how you go about it.

Understand Your State’s Retake Policy

Before diving back into preparation, familiarize yourself with your state nursing board’s specific retake requirements. Each state has unique rules, including waiting periods (typically 45 days) and limits on the number of attempts allowed.

Knowing these details ensures you don’t miss critical deadlines or face unexpected hurdles. Check your state’s nursing board website for accurate, up-to-date information.

Determine What Fees & Documents Need to be Submitted

Retaking the NCLEX often involves additional fees and paperwork. Start by confirming the re-examination fee with your state’s nursing board and Pearson VUE.

Some states may also require updated transcripts or a reapplication form. Gather all necessary documents early to avoid last-minute stress and delays.

Re-register with Pearson VUE and Pay the Fee

Once you’ve confirmed the requirements, re-register with Pearson VUE, the administrator of the NCLEX. This involves creating a new account (if needed) and paying the exam fee. Double-check your personal information to ensure it matches your identification documents. This step officially puts you back on the path to retaking the exam.

Wait to Receive Your New ATT (Authorization to Test) Email

After re-registering, you’ll need to wait for your new Authorization to Test (ATT) email. This typically takes a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on your state’s processing time. The ATT is essential—it contains your eligibility details and allows you to schedule your exam.

Keep an eye on your inbox (and spam folder) to avoid missing it.

Schedule Your New Exam

With your ATT in hand, log into your Pearson VUE account to schedule your retake. Choose a date and testing center that align with your study timeline and personal schedule. Aim for a date that gives you enough time to prepare but isn’t so far out that you lose momentum. Once scheduled, focus on your preparation and walk into the exam with confidence.

Again, don’t be hasty to retake the exam. Prepare for it; make sure you are caught up with the shortcoming of the previous attempt, according to the CPR. Then and only then, retake the exam.

How Many Times Can You Take the NCLEX?

With respect to the general NCSBN guidelines, a candidate can take the NCLEX up to eight times per year, with a mandatory 45-day waiting period between each attempt.

However, many state boards of nursing have their own specific rules and regulations regarding NCLEX retakes. So check with your specific state nursing board where you plan to practice to get accurate and up-to-date information on their retake policies.

How Can FBNPC Help with Retaking the NCLEX Exam?

FBNPC offers a comprehensive range of services designed to assist individuals in preparing for the NCLEX, particularly those retaking the exam. Here’s how we can help.

Comprehensive Study Plans

FBNPC provides structured study plans that cover the full scope of the NCLEX exam, addressing the various content areas and question formats. This can be very helpful in helping people to identify their weaknesses, and create a strong plan to improve.

Targeted Review

They focus on bridging the gap between knowledge and practical application, which is crucial for the NCLEX. This includes emphasizing critical thinking and clinical judgment skills, which are heavily tested in the Next Generation NCLEX (NGN).

Practice and Simulation

FBNPC utilizes practice questions, mock exams, and virtual simulation case scenarios to familiarize candidates with the exam format and enhance their test-taking abilities. This is very important when a person is retaking the exam, to get used to the test taking environment.

Personalized Guidance and Feedback

They offer live, face-to-face guided sessions with experienced nursing educators, providing personalized feedback and support. This individualized attention can help candidates identify and address their specific weaknesses.

Focus on the NGN

They provide help with the new generation NCLEX, which has changed the testing format. This is very important, because the test has changed.

At FBNPC, we offer the best NCLEX prep course to help you become a registered nurse and provide the best patient care possible.

FAQs on Failing the NCLEX Exam

Let’s Summarize

Failing the NCLEX can feel like a major setback, but it’s important to remember that it’s not the end of your nursing journey. Many successful nurses have faced this hurdle and gone on to pass the exam on their next attempt.

Remember, resilience and a commitment to improvement are key. Utilize the resources available, prioritize self-care, and approach your retake with renewed determination.

If you want help with preparing for the NCLEX, register with FBNPC today!