The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) is the gateway for aspiring nurses to earn their license in the United States and Canada. Whether you’re preparing for the NCLEX-RN (Registered Nurse) or NCLEX-PN (Practical Nurse), understanding how often the NCLEX is offered and how to schedule it effectively can make a big difference in your preparation and career timeline.
How Often is the NCLEX Offered?
The NCLEX is offered year-round, meaning you can take the exam on almost any day of the year, depending on seat availability at your chosen Pearson VUE testing center.
Key Facts:
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Testing centers typically operate Monday through Saturday (excluding major holidays).
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You can schedule your exam as soon as you receive your Authorization to Test (ATT).
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Slots can open or close quickly based on location demand.
Unlike traditional exams with fixed dates, the NCLEX’s computer-based testing model allows for flexible scheduling, giving you control over when and where you test.
How the NCLEX Schedule Works
1. Year-Round Availability
The NCLEX doesn’t follow a semester or annual cycle — instead, it’s administered continuously through Pearson VUE.
This means:
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You can choose your exam date based on your readiness, not a fixed timetable.
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Availability may vary from daily to several times a week, depending on the center.
Example: A major city testing center like Chicago may have multiple slots each day, while a smaller city may only offer two to three days per week.
2. Testing Days & Hours
While exact schedules vary by location:
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Most testing centers are open Monday–Saturday.
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Morning and afternoon sessions are common.
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No exams on major holidays (e.g., New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas).
3. Advance Scheduling
You can usually book your NCLEX up to six months in advance, once you have your ATT. Pearson VUE releases time slots on a rolling basis, meaning new dates often open up as time progresses.
Tip: Candidates who schedule 2–3 months in advance are more likely to secure their ideal time and location.
Scheduling the NCLEX Exam Process
Scheduling is straightforward but requires precise timing.
Step 1 – Apply for Licensure with Your State Board of Nursing (BON)
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Each state BON has specific application forms, fees, and requirements.
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After your application is approved, you’ll receive your Authorization to Test (ATT).
Step 2 – Register with Pearson VUE
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Go to Pearson VUE’s NCLEX portal.
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Create an account and pay the exam fee:
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$200 USD for NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN in the U.S.
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Additional fees may apply for international testing.
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Step 3 – Select Date, Time, and Location
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Log in to your Pearson VUE account.
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Search available testing centers near you.
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Choose a date and time from the open slots.
Step 4 – Confirmation
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You’ll receive an email confirmation with your appointment details.
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Keep this email — you’ll need it for exam day check-in.
How NCLEX Testing Center Availability Works
Testing center capacity depends on:
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Location size – Larger urban centers can test dozens of candidates daily.
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Seasonal demand – Graduation periods (May–July and December–January) often have higher booking rates.
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Local nursing school schedules – Areas with many nursing programs may have increased competition for spots.
Pro Tip: If your preferred center is booked, check nearby cities. You may find open slots within driving distance.
Best Times to Book NCLEX Exam
| Season | Demand Level | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Jan–Mar | Moderate | Good availability; book 1–2 months ahead |
| Apr–Jul | High | Graduation season — book 2–3 months ahead |
| Aug–Oct | Low | Flexible scheduling possible |
| Nov–Dec | High | Winter graduates — book early to avoid holiday closures |
Rescheduling Your NCLEX Exam
Yes, you can change your NCLEX date, but there are rules.
Rescheduling Rules:
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You must reschedule at least 24 hours before your appointment.
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There is no fee if rescheduled within this window.
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Missing the deadline means you forfeit your fee and must re-register.
How to Reschedule:
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Log in to your Pearson VUE account.
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Select your current appointment.
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Choose “Reschedule” and pick a new date/time.
NCLEX Exam Schedule
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Frequency | Year-round, Monday–Saturday |
| Booking Window | Up to 6 months in advance |
| Registration Fee | $200 USD |
| Rescheduling Deadline | ≥ 24 hours before appointment |
| Rescheduling Fee | None (if within deadline) |
| Test Length | Variable (CAT format) |
| Retake Waiting Period | 45 days (check state rules) |
| Global Testing | Available internationally via Pearson VUE |
Why Knowing the Frequency Matters
Understanding how often the NCLEX is offered helps you:
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Avoid peak-season competition.
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Choose a date that balances readiness and urgency.
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Reduce anxiety by knowing you have multiple opportunities.
Expert Tips for Choosing the Right Date
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Schedule when you’re consistently passing practice exams.
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Avoid rushing — most candidates perform best 6–12 weeks after graduation.
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Consider personal commitments and work schedules.
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Factor in travel time if your chosen center is outside your city.
Final Thoughts
The NCLEX’s year-round availability is a major advantage for nursing candidates, offering flexibility unmatched by many other professional licensing exams. While you can take it almost any day of the year, the key to securing your preferred slot is early planning and awareness of seasonal demand.
By understanding how often the NCLEX is offered, knowing the scheduling process, and following the tips in this guide, you can confidently book your exam date and focus your energy on passing the NCLEX, the final step toward becoming a licensed nurse.
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