# NCLEX-PN 2026 Result: How to Check Your Scores
Always confirm the latest dates, fees and eligibility on the exam provider's official site before applying.
The NCLEX-PN, or National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses, is a crucial step for Licensed Practical and Vocational Nurse graduates seeking licensure in the United States. After completing this computer adaptive test, candidates are eager to know their results. This guide outlines how and when to check your NCLEX-PN results, what your scorecard means, and the next steps after receiving your results.
NCLEX-PN 2026 result — how and when to check
Results for the NCLEX-PN are typically released by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) within a few days to weeks after the exam. Candidates can check their results through their respective state nursing board's portal. Each state board may have its own timeline for releasing results, so it is advisable to check their official websites for specific information.
Step-by-step result checking process
To check your NCLEX-PN results, follow these steps:
- 1Visit the official NCSBN website: Go to NCSBN.
- 2Navigate to the results section: Look for links related to exam results on your state board's page.
- 3Enter your details: You will need to provide personal information such as your name, date of birth, and possibly your candidate ID.
- 4Submit your request: After entering the required information, submit your request to view your results.
- 5Review your results: Your results will indicate whether you have passed or failed the exam.
If you encounter any issues, consider contacting your state nursing board for assistance.
Scorecard breakdown — what each number means
Once you receive your scorecard, it will include various metrics that can help you understand your performance:
- Total items: The number of questions you answered during the exam, which can range from 85 to 205, depending on your performance.
- Passed/Failed status: This indicates whether you have successfully met the passing criteria set by the NCSBN.
- Performance in categories: Your scorecard may also include a breakdown of your performance across different nursing categories, such as safe and effective care, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity.
Understanding these components can help you identify your strengths and areas for improvement.
Percentile vs raw score
The NCLEX-PN uses a computer adaptive testing (CAT) format, which means that the difficulty of the questions adapts based on your previous answers. The score you receive is a raw score, which reflects the number of questions you answered correctly.
Percentiles are not typically provided in your score report, but they can help gauge your performance relative to other test-takers. It is essential to focus on your raw score and the feedback provided in your scorecard for future improvement.
Normalisation method (if applicable)
Normalisation is a process used to ensure fairness in scoring, particularly in adaptive tests like the NCLEX-PN. The NCSBN employs a method to standardise scores across different test versions and conditions. This ensures that all candidates are assessed fairly, regardless of when or where they take the exam. However, specific details about the normalisation method are not typically disclosed to candidates.
After the result — next steps
After receiving your NCLEX-PN results, here are the next steps:
- If you passed: Congratulations! You will need to apply for licensure through your state nursing board. This process may include submitting additional documentation and fees.
- If you did not pass: Review your scorecard carefully to identify areas where you can improve. Consider enrolling in preparatory courses or taking mock tests on PractiseExam.com to enhance your knowledge and skills before retaking the exam.
- Stay informed: Regularly check your state nursing board's website for updates regarding licensure and any additional requirements.
By understanding how to check your results and what they mean, you can take informed steps towards your nursing career. Good luck!