Test Plans
You are encouraged to review the NCLEX test plans before your exam appointment. The test plans serve as blue prints to outline the content to be tested and guide the item writing process.
The test plans for the NCLEX-RN and PN can be found below. These are updated every three years to reflect fair, comprehensive; current; and entry-level nursing competency. The test plan contains in-depth information regarding exam content, exam administration and item writing exercises. Prior to 2019, multiple versions of the Test Plan were created and available. The information contained in the previous versions can now all be found in one Test Plan.
Purpose of the Test Plans
- Guide candidates preparing for the exam
- Inform the direction for item development
- Facilitate classification of exam items
The Test Plan also includes
- Definition of each Client Needs Categories
- Nursing activity statements
- Detailed content examples
- Sample NCLEX items
- Item writing guide
RN Test Plans
The NCLEX-RN test plan provides a concise summary of the content and scope of the exam. It serves as a guide for both exam development and candidate preparation.
EFFECTIVE APRIL 1, 2019 THROUGH MARCH 31, 2023
2019 NCLEX-RN Test Plan
The NCLEX-RN examination test plan includes an in-depth overview of the content categories along with details about the administration of the exam as well as NCLEX-style item writing exercises and case scenario examples.
*Dans cette publication, le masculin est employé sans préjudice afin d’alléger le texte.
PN Test Plans
The NCLEX-PN test plan provides a concise summary of the content and scope of the exam. It serves as a guide for both exam development and candidate preparation. The test plan links along with descriptions of each version are provided below.
EFFECTIVE APRIL 1, 2020 THROUGH MARCH 31, 2023
2020 NCLEX-PN Test Plan
The NCLEX-PN examination test plan includes an in-depth overview of the content categories along with details about the administration of the exam as well as NCLEX-style item writing exercises and case scenario examples.