What Score Do You Need to Pass the Next Generation NCLEX?

TL;DR

• The next generation NCLEX passing score is set by NCSBN via a logit standard (around 0.0).

• You don’t need a fixed percent—CAT passes you once your ability stays at/above the standard.

• Build clinical judgment with NGN-style case studies, CAT sims, and targeted review.

How NGN scoring actually works

• Passing standard: The NCSBN uses an IRT scale (logits). The cut is around 0.0 logit. You pass by demonstrating consistent competence at or above the standard—not by hitting a fixed percentage.

• CAT flow: Everyone starts at medium difficulty. If you answer correctly, difficulty rises; if not, it lowers. The test stops when it’s statistically confident you’re above or below the passing line.

What this means for you

• Your “score” reflects ability, not raw % correct.

• Fewer questions can still mean a pass if your ability estimate stays above the line.

How to prepare to meet (and exceed) the standard

1) Practice NGN item types

• Case studies, matrix/multiple response, drop-down rationale, bow-tie, and trend items.

• Use adaptive drills to mirror CAT behavior.

• Internal reads to level up :

  • Cue Recognition: 7 Patterns Beginners Miss 

  • Analysis & Prioritization: Right First Action 

  • NGN Partial Credit: Bank More Points 

  • Trend Items: Read Direction, Not One Number 

2) Build clinical judgment (CJM)

• Think in steps: recognize → analyze → prioritize → act → evaluate.

• Tie every choice to ABCs, safety, stability, time-sensitive.

3) Train with CAT simulations

• Do 2–3 full CAT runs before test day to learn pacing and difficulty swings.

• Follow with a mistake log: content gap vs. strategy vs. careless.

4) Target high-impact content

• Pharmacology prototypes and monitoring, safety & infection control, prioritization/delegation, peds/maternity basics, labs that trigger action.

5) Use partial credit to your advantage

• In matrix and multi-row items, remove unsafe choices first and select all safe components you’re sure about—bank points even if you’re unsure on others.

Test-day playbook

• Read the stem twice; name the current priority.

• Eliminate unsafe/out-of-scope options first.

• If two look right, pick the one that protects life/threat first (airway, oxygenation, perfusion, neuro).

• Manage your pace; don’t spiral on one item.

FAQs

Is there a fixed number I must get right?
No. CAT looks at your ability relative to the next generation NCLEX passing score (logit standard).

Do harder questions help me pass faster?
If you consistently answer higher-difficulty items correctly, the algorithm can reach a decision sooner.

Should I guess when unsure?
Yes—after eliminating unsafe options. CAT needs a response to estimate ability.

Build clinical judgment and meet the next generation NCLEX passing score with:

• Nurseclex CAT simulator (adaptive, NGN-style)

• NGN case studies with rationales

• Focused drills for pharmacology, delegation, and safety

Start now on Nurseclex.