About the NCLEX-RN

What the exam is

The NCLEX-RN is the licensure exam used by U.S. boards of nursing to help decide whether a candidate is ready for entry-level registered nurse practice. It is developed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).

The 2026 Test Plan

The current RN Test Plan took effect in April 2026. It organizes exam content into four major Client Needs categories, two of which are divided into subcategories — eight areas in all:

Source: NCSBN — 2026 NCLEX-RN Test Plan (effective April 2026)

Length and adaptive testing

According to the 2026 Test Plan, candidates can answer between 85 and 150 items within a five-hour time limit. The exam uses computerized adaptive testing (CAT), which selects items based on previous answers. Dosage Calcs does not simulate CAT and does not predict whether anyone will pass.

Source: NCSBN — Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT)

Clinical judgment and case studies

NCSBN's Clinical Judgment Measurement Model describes how nurses make decisions. The exam includes case studies — a client situation followed by a set of six items that unfold as new information appears. The model's functions are:

1. Recognize cues
2. Analyze cues
3. Prioritize hypotheses
4. Generate solutions
5. Take action
6. Evaluate outcomes

Our original case studies follow this structure for practice. For exact item formats and how they work on exam day, NCSBN's Test Plan directs candidates to the official Candidate Tutorial.

Sources: NCSBN — Clinical Judgment Measurement Model; NCSBN — Next Generation NCLEX (NGN)

How to use Dosage Calcs NCLEX review

• Read a category review page, then practice that category.
• Read every rationale — including for questions you got right.
• Use your on-device progress to find weaker areas, then practice them again.
• Retry missed and bookmarked questions from My progress.