The Odds of Passing NCLEX with All Questions
The maximum number of questions on NCLEX is currently 150, and the minimum is 85. If you’re doing really well, you could pass in 85 questions. But if you’re doing really poorly, you could fail in 85. And so on…
Just because you get asked the maximum number of questions on NCLEX does not mean you’ve failed the exam. The exact odds of passing with 150 questions is hard to say, but it is important to keep in mind that there is no way to know until you’ve received your score.
Current NCLEX Pass Rates
First, it’s helpful to look at the numbers. According to the most recent data from 2024, the pass rate for first-time, U.S.-educated NCLEX-RN candidates is approximately 91%. This statistic is encouraging and shows that the vast majority of graduates who sit for the exam pass on their first attempt. While pass rates can vary based on the nursing program, the overall odds are firmly in your favor.
Why the Number of Questions Varies: Understanding CAT
The NCLEX doesn’t have a fixed number of questions because it uses Computer-Adaptive Testing (CAT). This sophisticated technology tailors the exam to your individual ability level in real-time. After you answer a question, the computer re-estimates your competency. If you answer correctly, it gives you a slightly more difficult question. If you answer incorrectly, it presents a slightly easier one. This process allows the exam to quickly and efficiently determine if you are above or below the passing standard.
The primary goal of the CAT format is to determine with 95% confidence that your nursing ability is safely above the passing standard. For many candidates, the system can make this determination after the minimum number of questions, which is currently 85. For others, it may take more questions for the system to reach that level of confidence. This is why some exams are short, while others are long—it’s all about the algorithm gathering the data it needs to make a final, accurate decision.
The CAT system is not trying to trick you; it is trying to get the most precise measurement of your skills. The exam will continue until it is 95% certain you have either passed or failed. This adaptive nature is why no two NCLEX exams are exactly alike and why the number of questions is a poor predictor of your final result.
What Influences the Amount of Questions You Get on NCLEX?
The amount of questions you’re asked on NCLEX is influenced by how well you’re doing on the test. If the computer is having a hard time determining your competency level, then it will continue feeding you questions in order to gather as much information as possible. The computer will keep giving you questions until one of two things happens:
- It determines that you’ve passed or failed the exam
- You’ve reached the maximum number of questions
Just because you get a lot of questions doesn’t mean you’re doing poorly.
It just means you’re getting some questions right and some questions wrong and the computer needs additional information to assess your level of competency.
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FAQ
Can You Pass If You Get All 150 Questions?
Yes, absolutely. Many candidates who go the distance and complete all 150 questions still pass the NCLEX. Reaching the maximum number of questions means the computer used every available item to assess your ability. When this happens, the 95% confidence rule is no longer the primary factor. Instead, the computer will make a final determination based on your overall ability estimate across all the questions you answered.
If your final ability estimate is above the passing standard after 150 questions, you will pass. Therefore, if you find yourself still answering questions past 100, 120, or even 140, it is crucial to remain focused. Every single question becomes an opportunity to prove your competency.
Do most people pass NCLEX in 85 questions?
The current NCLEX pass rate for first time test takers is 80%. This means that most students who sit for NCLEX will pass it. Based on my experience, plenty of students pass the test in 85 questions (I know of at least 5 people in my graduating class alone who all did). Because the likelihood of passing in general is so high, I wouldn’t get discouraged about being asked 85 questions. Again, the only way to really know is to wait until your score is back – I know, it’s hard to wait!
Can you fail NCLEX in 85 questions?
Yes, you can fail NCLEX in 85 questions. If the majority of your answers are incorrect, the test will shut off after the minimum amount of questions has been asked and you will fail. However, keep in mind that it is very common to think you’ve failed when you actually have not, so don’t make any assumptions. Wait until you’ve received your actual score, since this is the only concrete way to know whether you’ve passed.
How soon will I know if I’ve passed or failed NCLEX?
Usually, you will be given access to your “quick results” or unofficial NCLEX results about 2 business days after taking the exam. These results will tell you whether you’ve passed or failed. You will receive your official results and nursing license about 6 weeks after passing the exam.
Everyone freaks out about NCLEX, but how could you not!? You’ve worked hard for years to sit for this one exam which determines so much of your future. Of course it’s scary, but keep in mind, statistically, most people pass, so the odds are in your favor.
