NCLEX Retake Strategy: What to Do After Failing the NCLEX

Failing the NCLEX is discouraging, but it is not unusual. Many qualified nursing graduates do not pass on their first attempt, especially with the complexity of the Next Gen format. What matters now is how you respond. A structured NCLEX retake strategy can turn a failed attempt into a successful one.

This guide outlines exactly what to do after failing the NCLEX, how to interpret your Candidate Performance Report (CPR), when you can retake the exam, and how to build a focused remediation plan that leads to passing.

Step 1: Confirm Your Official NCLEX Result

While Pearson VUE “Quick Results” may be available within 48 hours, your Board of Nursing (BON) notice or Pearson VUE status is the only official source. Do not reapply or begin retake registration until you have official confirmation.

Step 2: Review Your Candidate Performance Report (CPR)

Your Candidate Performance Report (CPR) replaces a numerical score. It categorizes your performance under:

• Above the Passing Standard
• Near the Passing Standard
• Below the Passing Standard
  

This document should be the foundation of your NCLEX retake strategy. Rather than starting your studying from scratch, identify which content areas were Near or Below the Passing Standard and focus your efforts there.

Step 3: Identify Why You Didn’t Pass

Step 4: Check NCLEX Retake Eligibility Rules

Most U.S. states allow candidates to retake the NCLEX after 45 days, though limits may apply per year. International test takers should confirm retake eligibility with both their regulatory body and immigration advisor if applicable.

Avoid rushing into a new exam date. Register only after establishing a clear remediation plan.

Step 5: Build a Structured NCLEX Retake Strategy

Your goal is not to study more, it is to study differently. A successful NCLEX retake study plan should include:

• Data-driven remediation based on your CPR
• Regular exposure to NCLEX-style practice questions
• Next Gen case-based question practice to improve clinical judgment
• Repetition of rationales, not just answers
• Timed practice blocks to simulate real testing conditions

Consistency matters more than intensity. A focused 6–12 week plan is far more effective than unfocused cramming.

Step 6: Rebuild Confidence Before You Retake

Even if you know the content, hesitation and second-guessing can negatively affect performance. Make sure you:

• Take simulated exams in quiet, test-like conditions
• Question review with a focus on understanding, not memorization
• Track your progress, especially in sections you struggle with.

How Likely Am I to Pass the NCLEX on a Second Try?

Research from the NCSBN shows that repeat NCLEX pass rates are about 50% lower than first-time rates, but success is strongly tied to structured remediation. Candidates who study with data-guided review and realistic practice questions are significantly more likely to pass on the next attempt.

Prepare for Your Retake with NCLEX Bootcamp

For candidates planning a retake, NCLEX Bootcamp offers a structured remediation system designed specifically for second-attempt students.

NCLEX Bootcamp includes:

• A remediation study schedule aligned with your CPR weak areas
• Next Gen-style case questions with real NCLEX-style scoring
• Step-by-step guides to Next Gen NCLEX cases explaining clinical judgment
• Progress tracking to ensure readiness before reapplying

Failing once does not determine your nursing career. A strong NCLEX retake strategy ensures your next attempt is your last.

Begin structured preparation with NCLEX Bootcamp and move confidently toward your license.