What Is the Passing Score for the NCLEX-RN in 2026?

2 minute read

Long read

The NCLEX-RN doesn't have a traditional passing percentage. Instead, it uses a logit-based passing standard and a computer-adaptive algorithm — which surprises many first-time test-takers looking for a single cutoff number.

The NCLEX-RN Pass Standard Explained

Quick Answer

There's no percentage. The NCSBN sets a logit-based passing standard — the current standard is 0.00 logits (as of the most recent update). The adaptive test determines pass/fail by comparing your ability estimate against that standard with 95% confidence.

The Full Explanation

The NCSBN (National Council of State Boards of Nursing) evaluates and publishes the NCLEX-RN passing standard on a roughly three-year cycle. The standard is expressed in logits, a measure of test-taker ability on the Rasch measurement scale.

The Next Generation NCLEX (NGN), which launched in April 2023, introduced case-study question formats that better assess clinical judgment — but the scoring model remains logit-based with the same pass/fail outcome.

Because the test is computer-adaptive, the length of your exam varies from 85 to 150 questions. The algorithm stops when it can determine pass/fail with 95% confidence, or when you hit the maximum length, or when you run out of time.

Candidates don't receive a score report. Pass or fail is the only official result, along with diagnostic category feedback for unsuccessful candidates.

How NCLEX-RN Scoring Actually Works

No percentage or numeric score reported
Current passing standard: 0.00 logits (NCSBN, most recent standard)
Minimum test length: 85 questions
Maximum test length: 150 questions
Maximum time: 5 hours
Computer-adaptive with 95% confidence pass/fail determination
NGN case-study items scored within the same logit framework

Key Takeaways

There is no percentage passing score on the NCLEX-RN
Pass/fail is determined against a logit-based standard
Test length is adaptive (85-150 questions)
NGN case studies use the same underlying scoring model

Sources

NCSBN: NCLEX Passing Standard
NCSBN: Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) resources

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Conclusion

Stop looking for a percentage — the NCLEX-RN is a pass/fail licensure test with a logit-based standard, adaptive length, and confidence-based stopping. Study for competence, not a cutoff number.