The NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) is the standardized exam every nursing graduate must pass to become licensed in the United States. For candidates in Florida, this exam is regulated by the Florida Board of Nursing in partnership with the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and Pearson VUE, the official testing vendor.
There are two versions of the NCLEX:
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NCLEX-RN for Registered Nurses.
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NCLEX-PN for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs).
NCLEX Format Overview
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Number of questions: 85 to 150 (under the Next Generation NCLEX model).
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Exam time: Up to 5 hours.
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Content areas: Safety and effective care environment, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity.
Like other states, Florida uses Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT), where the exam adjusts based on your answers. This ensures accurate measurement of nursing competency.
NCLEX Requirements in Florida
The Florida Board of Nursing (FBON) establishes eligibility requirements for all NCLEX candidates.
General Requirements
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Graduation from a state-approved nursing education program (RN or PN).
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Application for licensure by examination with FBON.
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Payment of required fees.
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Fingerprinting and a criminal background check.
Requirements for International Graduates
Foreign-educated nurses must complete additional steps:
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Credential evaluation through CGFNS or an equivalent service.
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English language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or waiver if program was in English).
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Submission of official transcripts to the Florida BON.
How to Apply for the NCLEX in Florida
The process includes applying to both the Florida Board of Nursing and Pearson VUE.
Step-by-Step Process
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Apply to the Florida BON – Complete the application for licensure by examination.
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Submit fees – Pay state application fee (about $175).
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Fingerprinting – Schedule electronic fingerprinting for the background check.
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Register with Pearson VUE – Create an account and pay the NCLEX exam fee ($200).
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Authorization to Test (ATT) – Once approved, Pearson VUE emails your ATT.
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Schedule your NCLEX – Choose from one of several Florida testing centers.
NCLEX Exam Centers in Florida
Florida offers numerous Pearson VUE centers for NCLEX testing, making it convenient for candidates. Major test locations include:
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Miami
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Orlando
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Tampa
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Jacksonville
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Fort Lauderdale
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Tallahassee
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Fort Myers
On exam day, expect biometric verification, ID checks, and secure testing conditions.
NCLEX Pass Rates in Florida
One of the most important performance indicators for nursing programs is the NCLEX pass rate in Florida. According to the Florida Board of Nursing NCLEX results, pass rates vary by school but often reflect national averages.
Average Florida NCLEX Exam Pass Rates
| Exam Type | Florida Pass Rate | National Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|
| NCLEX-RN | ~85% | ~82% |
| NCLEX-PN | ~82% | ~80% |
This means Florida graduates perform well compared to their peers across the country. However, pass rates differ significantly by nursing program. Top schools such as University of Florida, University of Miami, and Florida State University consistently report higher NCLEX pass rates than the state average.
NCLEX Exam Preparation in Florida
Florida nursing students have access to numerous NCLEX prep resources.
Popular NCLEX Prep Options
Nexus Nursing Institute offers specialized audio lessons to help nursing students effectively prepare for the NCLEX exam. Our lessons cover essential topics including Anxiety & Phobias, Mental Health, Cardio, Intrapartum Nursing, Maternity/OB, Pediatrics, Neuro, Vision, Musculoskeletal, Endocrine, Fundamentals of Nursing, Pharmacology, and Medical-Surgical Nursing areas like Respiratory and Gastrointestinal systems. These lessons simplify complex concepts, making them easier to grasp and ideal for both exam preparation and clinical practice.
Study Strategies for Success
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Begin structured study at least 8–12 weeks before exam day.
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Review Next Generation NCLEX question types such as case studies and bow-tie questions.
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Take at least 1,500–2,000 practice questions.
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Focus on Florida-specific clinical practice scenarios, as hospitals in the state often serve diverse populations.
Tips for International Nursing Students in Florida
Florida is one of the most popular states for international nurses due to its large immigrant population and healthcare demand.
Key Steps for International Graduates
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Apply to the Florida BON for licensure.
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Complete a credential evaluation service (CGFNS).
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Provide proof of English proficiency unless exempt.
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Complete fingerprinting and background checks.
While processing may take longer, once approved, international candidates follow the same NCLEX exam process as U.S. graduates.
What Happens After You Pass the NCLEX Exam in Florida
Passing the NCLEX is the gateway to becoming a licensed nurse in Florida.
After Passing the Exam
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Your license is issued by the Florida Board of Nursing.
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You can verify your license through the FBON online system.
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Employers can view your status within days of passing.
Florida offers ample career opportunities for newly licensed nurses, especially in metropolitan areas like Miami, Tampa, and Orlando. Demand is also high in rural hospitals across the state.
What If You Fail the NCLEX Exam in Florida?
Failing the NCLEX is not the end. Florida provides structured policies for retesting.
Retake Policy in Florida
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You may retake the NCLEX after 45 days.
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Florida allows up to 3 attempts within one year of graduation.
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If you fail three times, you must complete a state-approved remedial course before retesting.
You can take the NCLEX in Florida up to 3 times within a year, after which remedial coursework is required.
Strategies After Failing
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Review your Candidate Performance Report (CPR) for weak areas.
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Focus on high-yield topics such as pharmacology, prioritization, and delegation.
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Consider enrolling in a remedial course earlier if struggling with core concepts.
Costs of Taking the NCLEX Exam in Florida
Taking the NCLEX in Florida includes several fees.
| Cost Item | Estimated Fee |
|---|---|
| Florida BON Application Fee | $175 |
| NCLEX Exam Fee (Pearson VUE) | $200 |
| Fingerprinting/Background Check | $60–$75 |
| Credential Evaluation (International) | $200–$400 |
| Test Prep Materials | $150–$500 |
While the upfront costs are significant, many healthcare employers in Florida offer signing bonuses or reimbursement for licensing expenses.
Final Comments
The NCLEX exam in Florida is a critical step for aspiring nurses, whether educated in the U.S. or abroad. The Florida Board of Nursing NCLEX results demonstrate that most candidates succeed with proper preparation.
By planning early, using available resources, and staying focused, nursing graduates in Florida can successfully pass the NCLEX exam and begin their professional careers in one of the nation’s most dynamic healthcare environments.
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