How Much Does the NCLEX Exam Cost?

The NCLEX is the national licensure examination required for nursing candidates in the U.S. and Canada. But what is the true cost to take and pass this test? This guide examines NCLEX pricing, fees, and related expenses to help you understand and plan for the complete financial commitment.

How Much Does the NCLEX Exam Cost?

The base cost to register for the NCLEX through Pearson VUE is $200 for both RN and PN exams. This must be paid during the registration process online.

You can pay via credit card on the Pearson VUE registration website or call center. Some key facts:

• Same $200 fee whether taking NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN
• Covers exam delivery and test center costs
• Non-refundable once registration is completed
• Must be paid again for each retake attempt

This $200 Pearson VUE fee makes up the bulk of costs, but is not the only required payment.

According to FBNPC, the NCLEX registration fee for candidates seeking US licensure is $200 USD. Additionally, there is an international scheduling fee of $150 USD for those testing outside the US. If candidates need to change their nursing regulatory body or exam type after registration, fees of $50 USD apply for each change.

NCLEX.com confirms the $200 registration fee for US candidates and notes the fee is payable by credit or debit card. Beyond the exam fee, candidates must also pay a nursing license application fee, which varies by state.

State licensing fees range widely, typically from about $75 to $375, as detailed by Tutors.com and Nurse Plus Academy. For example, California’s nursing license fee ranges from $300 to $350, while states like Georgia and Hawaii charge around $40. Some states also require fingerprinting and background checks, which can add an additional $50 to $100 to the total cost.

What Is the NCLEX Exam?

The NCLEX stands for National Council Licensure Examination. It is a standardized test administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and Pearson VUE.

There are two main versions:

• NCLEX-RN for registered nursing candidates
• NCLEX-PN for practical/vocational nursing candidates

Passing the NCLEX is mandatory for receiving your nursing license and entering the workforce.

NCLEX Administration and Registration

While requirements vary slightly by state, the general process is:

• Register and pay for NCLEX through Pearson VUE
• Submit nursing license application to individual state board of nursing
• Receive eligibility from state board to take NCLEX
• Schedule and take exam at Pearson VUE testing center

Both the state board and Pearson VUE have separate fees that comprise the total expense.

State Board of Nursing Application Costs

On top of NCLEX registration, you must submit a separate nursing license application to your state board of nursing with the following fees:

• Application processing and evaluation
• License printing and handling
• Varies by state but typically $75 to $200+

For example:

• California: $150 application fee
• Florida: $110 application fee
• New York: $143 application fee
• Texas: $139 application fee

So, with the base $200 NCLEX exam fee plus state application fee, the total cost typically ranges from $300 to $400+.

Some states may also require payment for fingerprints, background checks, or document authentication as part of the application, which can add $30-$100 in fees.

If applying in multiple states, you may pay application fees to each one which can raise costs quickly.

Fees for International NCLEX Candidates

International nurses educated outside the U.S. or Canada face extra charges:

• $150 international scheduling fee when booking the NCLEX abroad
• Credential evaluation fees of $350-$500 to verify educational equivalency
• Visa screening package charges if required ($150+ through CGFNS)
• Translation and authentication costs for non-English documents

Realistically, international NCLEX candidates pay $500 to $1,000+ depending on their country of origin and state application fees. Preparation is very important.

You might also like our articles about the cost of TEFL certification, getting a real estate license, or PMP certification.

Other Potential NCLEX Costs

Depending on your specific circumstances, you may encounter other NCLEX-related costs:

• Retake fee of $200 for each repeat attempt, plus state reapplication fees
• Rescheduling fee of $50 if appointment is changed within 24 hours
• Exam prep materials like review courses, books, or practice questions ranging $100-$500
• Fast results option for $8 to receive unofficial score immediately
• Travel and lodging if testing at a non-local center
• Accommodations – Lodging if needed

Creating a detailed budget with contingency funds is recommended to avoid surprise expenses.

Overlooked NCLEX Costs

Some lesser-known fees can catch candidates off guard:

• State fingerprinting and criminal background checks – $50-$100+ in some cases
• Fingerprinting fee – As high as $75 in certain states
• Courier fees for sending transcripts or documents to state boards
• School fees for obtaining official transcripts
• Notarization costs for any required affidavits

While small individually, these incidental charges add up. Knowing what your state board requires is essential for complete financial planning.

Total NCLEX Cost Scenarios

To illustrate possible total costs, here are two examples:

U.S. Nursing Graduate Testing Locally

• Pearson VUE exam fee: $200
• State license application: $150
• Total: Around $350

International Nurse from Philippines

• Pearson VUE exam fee: $200
• International scheduling fee: $150
• Credential evaluation: $400
• CA application fee: $150
• Document translation: $100
• Total: Around $1000

As shown, total costs can range widely from a few hundred dollars up to $1000 or more depending on your situation.

Expert Insights

We asked nursing educators for their advice on keeping NCLEX costs in check:

“Compare state licensing fees to find the most affordable option. Some compact states let you practice in multiple areas with one license.” – Andrea Fuentes, Nursing Professor

“Look into voucher programs like through VA benefits or tribal agreements that provide discounted or free NCLEX registration.” – Martin Lange, Nursing School Administrator

“Don’t underestimate extra fees for transcripts, mailing documents, or travel. Get organized early so you can budget for everything.” – Theresa Price, RN and Nursing Career Coach

“Work with your school ahead of time to understand the exact process for obtaining sealed transcripts and any associated fees.” – John Garcia, Nursing Educator

Their tips can help you control extra expenses and avoid budget pitfalls.

Tips for Managing NCLEX Expenses

To control costs, be sure to:

• Comparison shop state fees and requirements to minimize expenses
• Apply early and give yourself flexibility in case delays occur
• Create a master NCLEX budget checklist accounting for all potential fees
• Look into financial assistance programs like North Carolina State Loan Program for NCLEX candidates
• Investigate employer reimbursement if you will start working soon after testing

With diligent planning, you can avoid surprise fees and keep NCLEX costs in check.

Final Words

While the NCLEX exam fee itself is just $200, total costs can reach $500, $800, or even over $1000 after factoring in state licensing, international surcharges, and incidentals. Doing thorough research on requirements for your specific situation is crucial for financial preparedness. Start budgeting early and account for all possibilities to avoid shortfalls. With diligent planning, you can successfully manage the complete NCLEX process without prohibitive expenses derailing your nursing career goals.

Answers to Common Questions

Is 2 months enough to study for NCLEX?

Most experts recommend 3-6 months of consistent NCLEX studying to feel fully prepared. Cramming in just 2 months is intense. Give yourself more time if possible.

Is UWorld NCLEX free?

No, UWorld charges subscription fees for its NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN exam prep banks. But they offer discounted trials and financial assistance options.

Do you get partial credit on NCLEX?

No, the NCLEX is strictly pass/fail. There is no partial or proportional credit – you must demonstrate minimum competency.