COVID-19 Impact to NCLEX Candidates: Modified Exam Extended Till September 30, 2020

(Estimated reading time: 3 minutes)

Since the emergence of this pandemic, demand for nurses has increased notably.

From a report by the American Nurses Association, there will be nurse jobs available than any other profession in the US, at more than 100,000 per year. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 1.1 million demand for new RNs for expansion and replacement of retirees.

In relation to that, one key to becoming a registered nurse in the US is to pass the NCLEX examination, and recently, NCBSN issued an update on their modified exam.

To ensure that social distancing measures are in effect, as well as increase the number of candidates that can test daily. The NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN modified exam extension is until September 30, 2020.

Key changes of the Modified Exam

There are numerous changes to the modified exam. However. they will still use the Computer Adaptive Test. The following are the key changes:

1. Test Items

Previously, the 75 is the minimum number of items, but it was cut down to 60. Furthermore, from the 265 maximum number of item, now its shortened to 130. The NCLEX committee ensures that the same level of consistency is achieved with the new lower minimum and a maximum number of items.

2. Testing Time

Maximum testing time will be four (4) hours, instead of the original six (6) hours. However, candidates can take a take break. The first scheduled break is two (2) hours after the exam started and then again three and a half (3 ½) hours after the exam began. However, the candidates cannot take unscheduled breaks. Please take note that testing time will not stop on your breaks.

3. Research Section

The exam does not have a research section anymore. Prior to these changes, the special research section was intended to collect data on new item types that could expand or enhance the measurement of entry-level nursing competence including clinical judgment. These questions did not affect the score obtained by the candidate.

4. No Pretest

There is no pre-tests in the exam. Extensive analysis indicates these changes will not affect the necessary measurement characteristics, difficulty of the examination, the pass rate, or the candidate testing experience.

5. Attire

Dress comfortably. NCLEX candidates needs to bring and wear their own face mask during the entire testing appointment at Pearson VUE test centers. Candidates risk being turned away if they do not bring and wear a mask while at the test center. They are to briefly remove the mask during the check-in process to take the required candidate photo.

Conclusion

Any concerns regarding scheduling, rescheduling, or unscheduling, and testing location availability shall be addressed through the candidate’s Pearson Vue account prior to their scheduled appointment.

To some, preparing for the exam may be a challenge. Nevertheless, you should prepare for the NCLEX exam ahead of time. Regardless of these changes, the examination is designed to test whether a candidate is ready to begin practicing as an entry-level nurse.

The weight of the process alone is difficult if you lack an idea on the procedures.

Fortunately, IPASS Processing is here to assist you in starting your NCLEX Application! IPASS provides hassle-free, trustworthy, and affordable assistance. We can guarantee your approval for the NCLEX examination. IPASS Processing holistically assisted thousands of Filipino nurses and other nationalities on their NCLEX application.