The Complete Guide: Everything About Next Generation NCLEX (NGN)

Landing a nursing job in the United States takes work. A nurse’s qualifications, knowledge, and skill in the field come into play as a means of determining competence through taking an exam. The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) is an exam that is a significant factor for nurses who wish to practice their profession in the US, Australia, or Canada. Thus, many nurses prepare intensively for this exam.

Taking the NCLEX is integral to acquiring the license to practice a nurse’s profession in the US, Canada, or Australia. This exam is fundamental in determining how safe and capable a nurse can be as an entry-level nurse in these countries. In addition, the NCLEX-RN measures a nurse’s analysis, application, and critical thinking skills in situations requiring nursing judgment.

With the introduction of the Next Generation NCLEX, the NCLEX is improved more than ever. In addition, nurses must know precisely how the new and improved exam works to avoid being overwhelmed by what’s new.

About the NGN

Is NGN a new exam? The answer is no, and it’s not a new or separate exam from the current NCLEX. 

The Next Generation NCLEX is an improved version of the current NCLEX. The NGN will be in full effect by next year, April 2023. Simultaneously, the 2019 NCLEX-RN Test Plan’s effectiveness ends by March 2023. 

It emphasizes nurses making clinical judgments where they are to analyze, problem solve, make decisions, and arrive at a nursing diagnosis. In addition, the NGN’s objective is to assess a nurse’s clinical judgment and decision-making using innovative and new item types. The new item types are not replacing the old ones; they are only added to better measure a nurse’s capabilities. 

What are the new NGN item types?

The Next Generation NCLEX will introduce a new exam format, namely, the case study-based format and the new item types. Below are the following NCSBN-approved new item types for the NGN: 

Drag and Drop

This item type involves test takers dragging answer/s from the word choices to the blank spaces to complete the correct sentence. And to construct the right sentence, the test taker must understand the accompanying patient scenario. 

Drop-down

The drop-down NGN item type provides respondents with a menu to choose from to answer the questions. This item type has three categories: 

• Drop-down cloze – This question type provides an electronic health record (EHR) that students may refer to complete statements. This item can have more than one drop-down option for respondents. 

• Drop-down rationale – The drop-down rationale question type presents respondents with a cause and effect/s sentence to complete using the drop-down options provided. They are also provided an electronic EHR on which they would base their answers.

• Drop-down table – Similar to the drop-down rationale, this question type uses a cause-and-effect basis from a client scenario. 

Multiple Choice

These item types present respondents’ client scenarios or case studies followed by a multiple-choice question. The question includes a problem or “stem,” answer choices, distractors, and one best correct answer. Answer choices in these questions usually contain distractors that are plausible answers, but they are not the ‘most’ right. 

• Matrix Multiple Choice – This item type gives respondents a set of patient data, and they are to select the most appropriate answer from each column in the answer choice.

Extended Multiple Response

The Extended Multiple Response item types expand the current Multiple Response in the NCLEX. In addition, this item type will have more answer options, including distractors. Select all applicable answers based on the question to receive a complete credit score for items like these. In addition, this item type comes in Matrix format, SATA, Select N, and Grouping.

Highlight

The Highlight item type in the NGN presents respondents with an electronic health record (EHR) which they must review and highlight parts of the text that are critical information. There are two types of highlight-type questions: the Highlight Text and the Highlight Table. 

• Highlight Text – Respondents are to determine and highlight information/s of the text that is critical for the action. Respondents can freely highlight and unhighlight as necessary.

• Highlight Table – Respondents are to highlight critical information presented from a table. 

Bowtie

The Bowtie item type integrates all six Clinical Judgment Measurement Model (CJMM) steps. The bowtie question provides a patient scenario; respondents must drag and drop items to answer the question. However, it is different from the typical drag-and-drop item type because respondents would need to analyze the possible medical condition or complication the patient is having. 

The question is set up like a bowtie, where the left is the Actions to Take, and the right is the Parameters to Monitor. By determining the Potential Condition —the center part of the bowtie—respondents can then drag and drop the actions necessary to address their condition and the parameters to monitor their respective sides. 

Trend

Trend questions in the NGN provide respondents with a client scenario with findings over time. They are to review this information to answer the question as a multiple-choice or multiple-response question. In addition, test takers are encouraged to read and understand trend questions carefully to spot and analyze cues that may help answer the question.

Matrix/Grid

The Matrix/Grid questions are like case studies or client scenarios that unfold as respondents answer the question. This item type involves radio buttons or square buttons in a table format. Similar to the Bowtie item type, the matrix/grid item type is part of the CJMM, where the respondent’s ability to make client care decisions are assessed.

Summing up

As we near the official beginning of the utilization of the Next Generation NCLEX, it is vital that nurses are well prepared and have familiarized themselves with this new and improved exam format. While it is not a separate exam from the current NCLEX, it is helpful that aspiring nurses know what to expect on the exam day. 

The NGN is made to further and better assess a nurse’s ability to make clinical judgments. The NCSBN Clinical Judgment Measurement Model enables a profound measure of their capabilities to make safe decisions by employing new item types. These item types allow test-takers to make analytical decisions rather than rely solely on their intuitive methods to answer exam questions.

(Estimated Reading Time: 13 minutes)

Our 20th cycle marks another exciting chapter in helping nurses prepare confidently for the NCLEX. This holiday season, as twinkling lights and festive cheer fill the air, we’re thrilled to bring you something truly special. Over the years, thousands have trusted IPASS for clear guidance, supportive coaching, and a structured review that makes a real difference. And this new cycle is built to be our most refined and student-focused yet.

If you’re ready to step into a review program designed to simplify your journey, strengthen your foundation, and guide you every step of the way, you’ll want to see what we’ve prepared for this milestone cycle. As we open our 20th cycle, we’re doing more than launching a new batch. We’re opening the doors to a proven system that has shaped the success stories of countless passers, and this Christmas, we invite you to start your own success story.

Read on and discover what makes the 20th cycle our strongest one yet, and unwrap the opportunity to prepare, succeed, and shine in the year ahead.

Why Taking the NCLEX Can Transform Your Nursing Career

The NCLEX is the exam that proves you’re ready to practice safely as a professional nurse. It exists because every nurse must demonstrate essential knowledge, skills, and clinical judgment to protect patients. Passing it grants you the privilege to become a licensed Registered Nurse in major destinations like the United States, and your results are also recognized in Canada and Australia through their regulatory pathways. Several other countries consider NCLEX a strong indicator of competence, which may support applications or even allow exam exemptions depending on their requirements.

Simply put: you take the NCLEX because it is the global standard of nursing readiness, a trusted, legally recognized measure that shows you can deliver safe and effective care as an entry-level nurse.

---

Understanding the IPASS 20th Cycle Next-Gen NCLEX Review Program

As IPASS enters its 20th Review Cycle, we’re building on years of successful training while introducing smarter, stronger, and more learner-centered innovations. This cycle marks a new chapter in how internationally educated nurses prepare for the NCLEX, a program designed not just to help you pass, but to elevate your competence and confidence for global practice.

Unlike traditional review styles that focus heavily on memorization, our 20th Cycle brings a deeper, more adaptive learning experience, one that mirrors today’s fast-changing healthcare environments and the demands of the Next-Gen NCLEX.

1) Our Evolving Approach to Nurse Readiness

For the 20th cycle, IPASS strengthens its commitment to shaping nurses who can think independently, reason clinically, and solve problems under pressure. Instead of repeating last cycle’s methods, we’ve refined our teaching model to emphasize:

• Smarter clinical reasoning, grounded in real-world cases
• Active learning strategies tailored for adult learners
• Decision-making frameworks aligned with the evolving NCLEX test plan
  

This cycle continues our mission of helping nurses pass on their first attempt, while enhancing your long-term competence so you can succeed not only on exam day but in every clinical setting thereafter.

2) A Program Anchored in Trusted Standards

IPASS maintains its recognition by the Minnesota Board of Nursing, ensuring that every lecture, module, and assessment remains aligned with U.S. nursing regulatory expectations.

For the 20th cycle, we leveraged this recognition to continuously improve our materials ensuring your review is shaped by standards that uphold patient safety, professional accountability, and global nursing excellence.

3) Integrated Smart Learning Tools for 2025

While our previous cycle introduced strong analytics and scenario-based questions, the 20th cycle enhances this further with:

• Improved Next-Gen case simulations
• More intuitive performance dashboards
• Adaptive practice sets that adjust to your knowledge level
• Streamlined mobile access for busy nurses on shifting schedules
  

These tools allow you to study efficiently and intentionally—focusing your efforts where they matter most.

4) A Curriculum That Moves With the Global Nursing Landscape

Healthcare evolves and so does the NCLEX.
In our 20th cycle, we’ve refined and expanded our curriculum to reflect:

• The latest NCLEX-RN Test Plan
• Emerging practice trends across the U.S., Canada, and Australia
• Common weaknesses identified from previous cycles
• More updated rationales and case explanations
• Enhanced coaching strategies for internationally educated nurses
  

And as always, our educators bring firsthand experience from U.S., Canadian, and Australian healthcare systems ensuring your learning stays relevant and practice-ready

IPASS 19th Your 20th Cycle NCLEX Online Review: Month-by-Month Roadmap to SuccessNCLEX Review Program Structure and Timeline

At IPASS, we know that preparing for the NCLEX can feel overwhelming but it doesn’t have to be. Our 20th Cycle NCLEX Online Review is carefully designed to guide you step by step, ensuring you gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence you need to succeed. Here’s a friendly month-by-month look at what you can expect:

December 2025: Foundation and Orientation Month

Setting the Groundwork for NCLEX Success

We start by laying a strong foundation. December kicks off with orientation and an open forum to set expectations and answer your questions. You’ll get familiar with the review flow and learn strategies to make the most out of every session. The focus on Leadership and Management develops your essential decision-making and prioritization skills, while our deep dive into the Endocrine system and targeted drills strengthen your retention from the very beginning. Think of December as building the base that will support all your NCLEX success.

• December 9 – Open Forum Session
• December 11 – Leadership & Management, Nursing Issues, Prioritization, Delegation (Day 1) – 8 PM TH Time
• December 12 – Leadership & Management, Nursing Issues, Prioritization, Delegation (Day 2) – 8 PM TH Time
• December 14 – Endocrine (Day 1)
• December 15 – Endocrine (Day 2)
• December 28 – Endocrine Drills (Day 1)
• December 30 – Endocrine Drills (Day 2)

January 2026: Clinical Essentials and Core Concepts Month

Strengthening Nursing Fundamentals

January is all about solidifying your core nursing knowledge. You’ll explore key systems and topics including Integumentary, Sensory, Renal, Mental Health, Immunology, and Infectious Diseases. In addition, we cover Skills and Procedures and dedicated Test-Taking Strategies to improve your confidence and efficiency. The month alternates between content lectures and focused drill sessions, giving you the opportunity to apply what you learn and sharpen your clinical judgment. By the end of January, you’ll have a strong grasp of essential nursing concepts.

• January 5 – Integumentary, Visual, Auditory
•  January 6 – NCLEX Test Taking Tips & Strategies (Day 1)
• January 7 – NCLEX Test Taking Tips & Strategies (Day 2)
• January 8 – Skills & Procedures, Fundamentals in Nursing (Day 1)
• January 9 – Skills & Procedures, Fundamentals in Nursing (Day 2)
• January 11 – Integumentary
• January 13 – Visual, Auditory Drills
• January 15 – Skills & Procedures, Fundamentals in Nursing Drills
• January 18 – Urinary/Renal (Day 1)
• January 19 – Urinary/Renal (Day 2)
• January 20 – Urinary/Renal Drills
• January 22 – Mental Health, Behavioral (Day 1)
• January 23 – Mental Health, Behavioral (Day 2)
• January 25 – Immunology, Infectious Diseases (Day 1)
• January 26 – Immunology, Infectious Diseases (Day 2)
• January 28 – Immunology, Infectious Diseases Drills
• January 29 – Mental Health, Behavioral (Day 3)
• January 30 – Mental Health, Behavioral (Day 4)

February 2026: Advanced Systems and High-Yield Topics Month

Building Mastery and Application

February takes your review to the next level. We tackle high-yield systems such as Respiratory, Neurologic, Musculoskeletal, Cardiovascular, and Safety & Infection Control. Our Maternal and Child Health (OB & Pediatrics) sessions ensure you understand one of the most complex areas of the NCLEX. Each lecture is paired with drills to strengthen your analytical skills, making it easier to apply concepts during the exam. This month is about mastery, moving beyond memorization into confident application.

• February 1 – Respiratory (Day 1)
• February 2 – Respiratory (Day 2)
• February 3 – Respiratory Drills (Day 1)
• February 4 – Respiratory Drills (Day 2)
• February 8 – Neurologic (Day 1)
• February 9 – Neurologic (Day 2)
• February 10 – Neurologic Drills (Day 1)
• February 11 – Neurologic Drills (Day 2)
• February 12 – Maternal and Child (OB & Pediatrics) Day 1 – 8 PM TH Time
• February 13 – Maternal and Child (OB & Pediatrics) Day 2 – 8 PM TH Time
• February 14 – Maternal and Child (OB & Pediatrics) Day 3
• February 20 – Maternal and Child (OB & Pediatrics) Day 4
• February 21 – Maternal and Child (OB & Pediatrics) Day 5
• February 27 – Maternal and Child (OB & Pediatrics) Day 6
• February 28 – Maternal and Child (OB & Pediatrics) Day 7
• February 15 – Musculoskeletal (Day 1)
• February 16 – Musculoskeletal Drills
• February 22 – Cardiovascular (Day 1)
• February 23 – Cardiovascular (Day 2)
• February 24 – Safety and Infection Control (Day 1)
• February 25 – Safety and Infection Control (Day 2)

March 2026: Final Mastery and Intensive Drills Month

Preparing for Exam-Ready Performance

March is your final push toward exam readiness. We focus on advanced topics including Cardiovascular, Critical Care, Pain Management, Pharmacy, Trending Medications, Gastrointestinal, and Hematology Oncology. Each session combines lecture and drill, so you can practice under conditions that mirror the NCLEX itself. The month culminates with Pharmacology and Drug Calculation Drills, helping you enter your exam with confidence and precision. By the end of March, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and strategies to succeed.

• March 2 – Cardiovascular Day 2
• March 3 – Cardiovascular Day 3
• March 4 – Maternal and Child (Ob and Pediatrics) Drills Day 1
• March 5 – Maternal and Child (Ob and Pediatrics) Drills Day 2
• March 6 – Cardiovascular Drills Day 1
• March 9 – Cardiovascular Day 5
• March 10 – Critical Care
• March 11 – Cardiovascular Drills Day 2
• March 12 – Cardiovascular Drills Day 3
• March 13 – Trending Topic Case Studies
• March 16 – Basic Care and Comfort Pain Management
• March 17 – Pharmacy and Drug Calculation
• March 18 – Trending Medications
• March 19 – Gastrointestinal Day 1
• March 20 – Gastrointestinal Day 2
• March 23 – Gastrointestinal Drills Day 1
• March 24 – Hematology Oncology Day 1
• March 25 – Hematology Oncology Day 2
• March 26 – Hematology Oncology Drills
• March 27 – Hematology Oncology Drills
• March 30 – Gastrointestinal Drills Day 2
• March 31 – Pharmacology and Drug Calculation Drills

At IPASS, we’re committed to walking with you every step of the way. Each month of your NCLEX review is carefully planned to ensure you build knowledge, strengthen clinical judgment, and gain the confidence to succeed on exam day. Let’s make this 20th Cycle your strongest yet!

Unlocking the 12-in-1 NCLEX Review Package for Cycle 20

Preparing for the NCLEX is more than just studying, it’s a journey that requires structure, guidance, and the right support system. As we launch the IPASS 20th Cycle, we’re excited to unveil our enhanced 14-in-1 NCLEX Review Package, a comprehensive bundle designed to give nursing graduates every advantage they need to succeed. Each component was thoughtfully crafted to address the real challenges that test-takers face, from mastering the Next-Gen format to managing exam-day anxiety. This is more than a review program, it’s a complete pathway toward becoming a confident and competent future USRN.

1. Unlimited Review Until You PASS

Our program ensures that you never feel rushed while preparing for the NCLEX. With unlimited access to review sessions, you can study at your own pace and revisit lessons as many times as needed until you confidently pass the exam.

2. Next-Gen NCLEX QBank Access

Experience realistic NGN-style learning with a comprehensive question bank designed to mirror the actual NCLEX format. Each case scenario helps you strengthen critical thinking and prepares you for the evolving demands of the exam.

3. Exam Assessments

Track your progress with structured assessments that pinpoint your strengths and areas for improvement. These evaluations help you focus on what truly matters so you can study smarter, not harder.

4. 1-on-1 Coaching Sessions

Receive personalized support from expert mentors who guide you through challenging topics and help you overcome learning barriers. These sessions are tailored to your weak areas to ensure consistent improvement.

5. Full-Length Mock Exams

Get the full NCLEX experience before exam day. Our simulated mock exams replicate real testing conditions, helping you build confidence, improve timing, and reduce anxiety.

6. Free Roadmap to NCLEX eBook

Access a digital NCLEX playbook filled with timelines, study strategies, and practical tips. This guide keeps you organized and ensures you’re always on track throughout your review journey.

7. Booster Coaching Classes (Final Coaching)

Strengthen your competencies in high-yield topics through intensive, expert-led booster classes. These final coaching sessions give you the push you need during the most crucial stage of your preparation.

8. Trending Topics Classes

Stay updated with the latest NCLEX trends, clinical scenarios, and high-yield concepts. These classes ensure you’re studying relevant content that reflects the current exam blueprint.

9. Anxiety Management Workshop + Exam Day Orientation

Learn how to manage test anxiety and face your Pearson VUE exam day with clarity and confidence. This workshop equips you with mental preparation techniques and practical reminders.

10. ₱500 OFF Printed NCLEX Roadmap Book

Students who prefer printed materials can take advantage of an exclusive discount on our physical NCLEX roadmap book. It’s a convenient companion for studying anytime, anywhere.

11. Exclusive NCLEX Processing Discount

Enjoy added value through discounted NCLEX processing services when bundled with your review. This helps you save time, reduce stress, and streamline your journey to becoming a USRN.

12. Performance Tracking & Test-Taking Strategy Tools

Monitor your readiness and progress through tools designed to enhance your test-taking strategies. These resources help you analyze performance trends and apply techniques that increase your likelihood of passing.

13. Readiness Assessments

Measure your overall exam preparedness through structured readiness evaluations designed to predict your probability of passing. These assessments help determine if you’re exam-ready or if you need focused reinforcement in specific content areas before scheduling your test.

14. Final Coaching

Master high-yield concepts through intensive final coaching sessions led by expert instructors. This last-phase preparation sharpens your clinical judgment, reinforces key strategies, and ensures you enter exam day confident, focused, and fully prepared.

Success in the NCLEX doesn’t happen by chance, it happens with preparation, commitment, and the right guidance. With the IPASS 20th Cycle and our 14-in-1 NCLEX Review Package, you’re not just signing up for a course; you’re joining a supportive community dedicated to helping you achieve your dream of becoming a licensed nurse abroad. Every tool, class, and resource is designed to bring you closer to passing with confidence.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your nursing career, this is the perfect time to begin. 

Why Nurses Keep Choosing IPASS

Over the past cycles, IPASS has helped thousands of aspiring nurses build confidence and structure in their NCLEX journey.Many of our passers share how the step-by-step roadmap kept them focused, even when they felt overwhelmed and unsure where to start.

Students repeatedly highlight how the coaching sessions felt personal, supportive, and genuinely invested in their success.Those who struggled with the exam before often say the review finally made sense after joining IPASS. Our community-based learning environment allows students to feel guided, not just academically, but emotionally as well.The consistently high passing rates across multiple cycles reflect the strength of our approach and the dedication of our team.

Graduates often describe how the mock exams and practice questions helped them face the real test with confidence. Many nurses abroad today credit their career breakthrough to the foundation built during their IPASS review. With every new cycle, the growing number of testimonials reminds us of the life-changing impact of quality, structured preparation.And as we launch the 20th Cycle, these success stories continue to inspire the next generation of NCLEX passers to take the first step with confidence.

Kickstart Your NCLEX Prep with Our Holiday Discounts

To make this cycle even more special, IPASS is launching its exclusive Holiday Promo Offers, giving aspiring NCLEX passers a chance to begin their review journey with big savings. This limited-time offer makes quality NCLEX preparation more accessible, especially for those who want to start the new year with purpose and momentum.

Bundle Deal Highlights:

To make the opportunity even more accessible, students can start their NCLEX review for as low as ₱5,000, allowing them to secure their slot now and plan their remaining payments with ease.

With over 81,143 successful clients and counting, these promos offer the perfect chance to join a community built on trust, results, and genuine support. This holiday season, investing in your NCLEX preparation could be the first step toward a life-changing career abroad at a price that is friendlier than ever

Building on Our Success: Your Next Step with IPASS

As we launch the 20th cycle, now is the perfect time to take charge of your NCLEX preparation and invest in a program that has guided thousands of nurses to success. With these holiday promos, starting your review has never been more accessible or rewarding.

The demand for nurses worldwide has never been higher. Countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom are actively seeking skilled professionals, creating life-changing career opportunities for those prepared to take the next step. By investing in your NCLEX preparation now, you position yourself to take advantage of this global demand and secure a career abroad.

If you want to see how far IPASS has come and how our strategies have evolved to support aspiring nurses, you can check out our recap of the 19th cycle here. It’s a great way to see the progress, results, and success stories that continue to shape our approach.

Schedule a Call here

Frequently Asked Questions about 19th of IPASS Cycle NCLEX Review

1. What is the NCLEX pass rate for IPASS passers?

2. How long does it take to complete the IPASS Next-Gen NCLEX Review?

3. Are there financing options available for the program?

4. Can I work while completing the IPASS program?

5. What support is available if I don’t pass the NCLEX on my first attempt?

We at IPASS have your back! IPASS Processing offers its service to nurses who wish to apply for the NCLEX in the United States. We ensure to provide and deliver you a smooth and hassle-free NCLEX application. For more inquiries, contact us now!