First, take a deep breath. Failing the NCLEX is more common than you might think, and it’s not the end of your nursing career—it’s a temporary setback that thousands of nurses have overcome. Many successful nurses, including charge nurses, nurse practitioners, and nursing educators, didn’t pass on their first attempt.
This guide will walk you through exactly what to do after failing the NCLEX, how to create an effective study plan for your retake, and strategies that have helped repeat test-takers succeed.
Understanding Why You Didn’t Pass
Step 1: Review Your Candidate Performance Report (CPR)
Within a few weeks of your exam, you’ll receive a Candidate Performance Report. This document is crucial because it shows:
- Your performance in each content area
- Whether you were “below passing,” “near passing,” or “above passing” in each category
- Areas that need the most improvement
How to interpret your CPR:
- Below Passing Standard: These areas need significant review
- Near Passing Standard: You’re close—focused practice will help
- Above Passing Standard: Maintain these areas but don’t neglect them
Step 2: Identify What Went Wrong
Honest self-reflection is essential. Common reasons for not passing include:
- Content gaps: Weak areas in specific subjects
- Test-taking anxiety: Nerves affecting performance
- Inadequate preparation time: Not studying long enough
- Wrong study methods: Passive reading instead of active practice
- Unfamiliarity with NGN formats: Not practicing new question types
- Poor time management: Rushing or spending too long on questions
NCLEX Retake Rules and Requirements
Waiting Period
You must wait 45 days between NCLEX attempts. This waiting period is set by the NCSBN and cannot be waived.
Re-Registration Process
- Receive your official results from your nursing board
- Register again with Pearson VUE
- Pay the examination fee ($200 for NCLEX-RN, $200 for NCLEX-PN)
- Obtain a new Authorization to Test (ATT) from your nursing board
- Schedule your exam after your 45-day waiting period
Attempt Limits
Most states allow 8 attempts per year, with a maximum number of lifetime attempts varying by state. Check with your state board for specific limitations.
Creating Your Retake Study Plan
The Ideal Timeline
For most repeat test-takers, 6-8 weeks of focused study is optimal. Here’s why:
- Too short (2-3 weeks): May not address all weak areas
- Too long (3+ months): Risk of burnout and forgetting material
- 6-8 weeks: Enough time to address gaps without losing momentum
Sample 6-Week Study Plan
Week 1-2: Content Review
- Focus on your weakest CPR areas
- Review fundamental concepts you may have forgotten
- Take notes on key points
- Complete 50-75 practice questions daily
Week 3-4: Active Practice
- Increase to 100-150 questions daily
- Focus on rationales—understand why answers are right or wrong
- Practice NGN question types (case studies, bow-tie, trend items)
- Take timed practice tests
Week 5-6: Test Simulation
- Take full-length CAT simulation exams
- Practice under test-like conditions
- Review any remaining weak areas
- Focus on test-taking strategies and time management
What to Do Differently This Time
1. Change Your Study Approach
If your previous methods didn’t work, try something new:
- Switch from passive reading to active question practice
- Join a study group or find an accountability partner
- Consider a structured prep course
- Use multiple resources instead of just one
2. Focus on Understanding, Not Memorizing
The NCLEX tests application of knowledge, not recall. For every concept, ask:
- Why does this happen?
- What would a safe nurse do?
- How would I recognize this in a patient?
3. Master Clinical Judgment
The NGN heavily emphasizes clinical judgment. Practice:
- Recognizing and analyzing patient cues
- Prioritizing problems
- Selecting and evaluating interventions
4. Address Test Anxiety
If anxiety affected your performance:
- Practice relaxation techniques daily
- Simulate test conditions during practice
- Develop positive self-talk strategies
- Consider speaking with a counselor
Mental and Emotional Recovery
Allow Yourself to Grieve
It’s normal to feel disappointed, frustrated, or embarrassed. These feelings are valid. Give yourself a few days to process before diving back into studying.
Reframe the Experience
- This is a delay, not a denial
- You now know what to expect
- Many successful nurses failed before passing
- You’re not starting from zero—you have knowledge and experience
Build a Support System
- Connect with others who’ve been through this
- Share your goals with supportive friends and family
- Consider joining online NCLEX support groups
Signs You’re Ready for Your Retake
You’re ready when:
- Consistently scoring 60-65%+ on practice exams
- Passing readiness assessments
- Understanding rationales, not just memorizing answers
- Feeling confident with all question types, including NGN formats
- Able to explain nursing concepts in your own words
You Will Pass
Remember: The NCLEX isn’t designed to keep qualified nurses from practicing. It’s designed to confirm that you can provide safe patient care. With focused preparation and the right mindset, you WILL pass.
Your future patients are waiting for you. Get back up, study smarter, and pass that exam!
