The following is the current format and some definitions of items types for the NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN:
- The minimum number of test items is 85.
- The maximum number of test items is 150.
- Multiple Response (MR) Select All That Apply (SATA) are scored using a polytomous scoring method, which allows for partial scoring.
- Five item types that measure nursing clinical judgment:
- Extended Multiple Response: Extended Multiple Response items allow candidates to select one or more answer options at a time. This item type is similar to the previous NCLEX multiple response items but with more options and using partial credit scoring.
- Extended Drag and Drop: Extended Drag and Drop items allow candidates to move or place response options into answer spaces. This item type is like the previous NCLEX ordered response items but not all of the response options may be required to answer the item. In some items, there may be more response options than answers spaces.
- Cloze (Drop – Down): Cloze (Drop-Down) Items allow candidates to select one option from a drop-down list. There can be more than one drop-down list in a cloze item. These drop-down lists can be used as words or phrases within a sentence, within tables and charts.
- Enhanced Hot Spot (Highlighting): Enhanced Hot Spot items allow candidates to select their answer by highlighting pre-defined words or phrases. Candidates can select and deselect the highlighted parts by clicking on the words or phrases. These types of items allow an individual to read a portion of a client medical record, (e.g., a nursing note, medical history, lab values, medication record, etc.) and then select the words or phrases that answer the item.
- Matrix/Grid: Matrix/Grid items allow the candidate to select one or more answer options for each row and/or column. This item type can be useful in measuring multiple aspects of the clinical scenario with a single item.
Helpful Links:
2023 NCLEX Test Plans: https://nclex.com/test-plans.page
2025 NCLEX Candidate Bulletin: https://nclex.com/prepare.page
NCLEX Preparation Materials (Exam Preview, Sample Questions, New Item Type Tutorial, and more): https://www.nclex.com/prepare.page