What is the Next Generation NCLEX (NGN)?

The Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) is an updated version of the NCLEX that assesses nursing candidates' abilities to apply clinical judgment skills and make safe, effective decisions. It includes new question types and case sets that are mapped to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) Clinical Judgement Measurement Model. NGN has been administered since April 2023.

How many questions are on the NCLEX-RN?

The new NCLEX serves up between 85 to 150 questions and will stop as soon as your competency level has been identified.

How do you pass the NCLEX-RN?

To pass the NCLEX-RN, you have to demonstrate that your level of competency is above the minimum standard. As you answer questions correctly, you'll be given increasingly difficult questions, and you will need to work your way up in difficulty so the NCLEX-RN algorithm can identify your passing-level competency with 95% confidence. Answering questions correctly requires both nursing content knowledge and critical thinking skills.

How long does it take to get NCLEX-RN results?

Official results will be sent to you approximately 6 weeks after taking the NCLEX-RN. Some states offer a paid quick results service which allows you to access your 'unofficial' results in 2 business days.

How many times can you take the NCLEX-RN?

Ideally, you'll only take the NCLEX-RN once. However, you are allowed to retest 45 days after the administration of your previous exam. Candidates are permitted to take the exam 8 times in a calendar year, depending on the state.

NCLEX-RN in Canada – Format, Tips & Study Plan for Success (2025)

Created by Priya Basil in Articles 16 Oct 2025

NCLEX-RN in Canada – Format, Tips & Study Plan
for Success (2025)

The NCLEX-RN (National
Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses) is the final step between
nursing school and a professional career as a Registered Nurse in Canada. For
many students and internationally educated nurses (IENs), understanding the
exam format and building a realistic study plan are the keys to passing
confidently.

1. Understanding the NCLEX-RN in Canada

Canadian regulatory bodies such as the
College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) and the
British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives
(BCCNM) require candidates to pass the NCLEX-RN to ensure safe
and competent nursing practice. The test is delivered on a computer using a
method called Computer Adaptive Testing
(CAT).

What does CAT mean?
Each question adapts in difficulty depending on your previous answers. The goal
is to determine your true ability level efficiently — so no two people get the
same test.

2. Exam Format & Structure

Time Limit: Up to 5
hours (including breaks)

Number of Questions:
Varies (usually between 70 and 135)

Question Types:
Multiple Choice, SATA (Select All That Apply), Fill-in-the-Blank,
Drag-and-Drop, Hot Spot, and Case Studies

Focus Areas:
- Safe and
  Effective Care Environment
- Health
  Promotion and Maintenance
- Psychosocial Integrity
- Physiological Integrity

Tip: Do not expect to see the
same set of questions twice — the test is fully adaptive and unique for each
candidate.

3. Study Plan for NCLEX-RN Success

Step 1: Know Your Timeline

Most students prepare for 8–12 weeks. Plan for at
least 2 hours per day of focused digital study time. Consistency matters more
than cramming.

Step 2: Master Core Concepts

Use Priya Basil Academy’s digital modules to review
fundamentals like pharmacology, infection control, and nursing prioritization.
Each topic is presented with concept-based explanations and practice questions
that build critical thinking skills.

Step 3: Take Practice Exams Weekly

Simulate the real testing environment once per
week. Review each question’s rationale carefully to understand why an answer is
correct or incorrect. This improves clinical judgment — the core of the Next
Generation NCLEX.

Step 4: Track Your Progress

Keep a digital study journal to record your weak
areas. Revisit topics like physiological adaptation and safety until you score
consistently above 75% on practice tests.

4. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Memorizing facts without understanding
rationales

Ignoring practice questions based on clinical
judgment cases

Skipping self-care — rest and hydration improve
focus on exam day

5. Digital Learning with Priya Basil
Academy

Priya Basil Academy
offers modern, self-paced digital study tools for nursing students across
Canada and internationally. Our resources include interactive question banks,
comprehensive study kits, and exam-style mock tests to help you build
confidence on your schedule.

Designed by experienced Canadian nurses and
educators, our materials focus on clarity, concepts, and rationales — so you
learn smart, not hard.