Rerouting After a Failed NCLEX® Attempt

April 22

Martha McMillan

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Year after year, hundreds of thousands of nursing students from the U.S. and around the world take the NCLEX® exam to achieve their dream of becoming licensed Registered Nurses (RNs) or Practical Nurses (PNs). While first-time NCLEX® pass rates are impressively high—92.1% for RN candidates and 89.91% for PN candidates (NCSBN®)—many candidates find themselves facing the tough reality of a failed NCLEX® attempt. Failing the NCLEX® on your first attempt is relatively common, impacting around 13% of first-time RN candidates, so know that you're not alone.

Receiving news that you've failed the NCLEX® can feel devastating emotionally and financially, creating significant stress and uncertainty about your next steps. However, it's essential to understand that this doesn't define your potential as a nurse; rather, it highlights specific areas that need targeted improvement and remediation. According to the NCSBN®, repeat NCLEX® test-takers typically experience lower pass rates, around 45-50%, making structured remediation crucial for success.

After an unsuccessful attempt on the NCLEX®, you'll likely wonder how soon you can retake the exam. The NCSBN® mandates a 45-day waiting period before your next attempt. Most state boards also require documented evidence of remediation during this waiting period. Hurst Review, approved by all State Boards of Nursing, specializes in this remediation process. Our comprehensive programs not only prepare you effectively but also simplify administrative tasks by providing the required documentation to your state board.

One of the most effective ways to improve your chances of passing on your next attempt is through targeted, structured study. That's precisely what Hurst's specialized Hurst Now Plus program offers. This program is designed specifically for candidates who will be retaking the NCLEX®, providing a comprehensive review of essential nursing content combined with advanced tools for tackling challenging question types.

Our Hurst Now Plus program includes:
  • Comprehensive Online Review: Clearly presented core nursing content avoids overwhelming information, enabling you to master essential knowledge confidently.
  • Proven NCLEX® Test-Taking Strategies: Enhance your critical thinking and decision-making abilities to effectively answer NCLEX®-style questions.
  • Extensive Practice and Assessment: Over 1500 NCLEX®-style practice questions and four readiness exams modeled after the NGN® to identify and strengthen your knowledge gaps.
  • Elevate Companion Program: Engaging webinars, interactive quizzes, and NGN® case studies specifically designed to tackle difficult question formats such as Select All That Apply (SATA) and prioritization scenarios, significantly reducing exam anxiety.

Hurst Review is built by nurses, for nurses—we genuinely understand the challenges and emotions involved in retaking the NCLEX®. Our supportive community and dedicated instructors have helped countless students overcome their initial setbacks and achieve licensure.

Trust in your abilities, stay focused, and believe in your potential. With targeted support, the NCLEX® can become a steppingstone to your rewarding nursing career.

Ready to reclaim your confidence and succeed on your next NCLEX® attempt? Contact us today at nursingsupport@hurstreview.com. We're committed to helping you every step of the way.

To hear more about Martha's journey about rerouting after a failed NCLEX® attempt, listen on the Nursing Navigator Podcast.