What is the NGN - Next Generation NCLEX?

The NGN - Next Generation NCLEX is a newly designed nursing licensure examination created by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). Set to launch in April 2023, the NGN will incorporate both traditional NCLEX-style questions and realistic 6-part clinical case studies. The aim is to provide a more comprehensive evaluation of nursing competence by incorporating real-world scenarios into the exam process.

What is Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT)?

One of the major changes in the NGN is the use of Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT), which offers a more precise and efficient evaluation of a candidate's nursing knowledge.

Variable-length

The NGN allows for a flexible and variable length test, with a range of 85 to 150 questions. The number of questions you receive will depend on your performance during the exam. The CAT system uses advanced algorithms to determine the level of difficulty of each question and adjust the questions accordingly. This way, the exam will continue until the NGN has a clear and accurate assessment of your nursing knowledge.

How it Works

1. After each answer, the computer estimates your ability and selects an item you have a 50% chance of answering correctly. This allows the computer to determine your level of proficiency and adjust the difficulty of the questions accordingly.
2. Each time you answer, the computer's estimate becomes more precise. The computer uses your previous answers to refine its estimate of your ability and to provide you with questions that are more relevant to your strengths and weaknesses.
3. The exam ends when the computer determines your ability level with 95% confidence. This ensures that the NGN provides a fair and accurate assessment of your nursing knowledge, without wasting your time with questions that are too easy or too difficult for you.

Pass/Fail Rules

The NGN uses a pass/fail system to determine if you have met the minimum standards required to become a licensed nurse. Your exam can end three different ways:

1. 95% Confidence Interval: The exam will end if you reach the 95% confidence interval after answering at least 85 questions. This means that the computer has determined your ability level with 95% confidence and will stop the exam.
2. Maximum Length Exam: If you complete all 150 questions, the exam will end. This means that you will have answered the maximum number of questions allowed and the NGN will have a clear and accurate assessment of your nursing knowledge.
3. Run-Out-Of-Time (ROOT) Rule: If you run out of time before the computer reaches the 95% confidence interval, the exam will end.