how much does it cost to take the nclex pn

How Much Does It Cost To Take The NCLEX PN Exam in 2025?

A specific amount must be prepared to take the NCLEX PN, based on your choice, changes, and testing location. So, how much does it cost to take the NCLEX PN?

Updated at May 15, 2022

The National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) is administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.

Graduates of the nursing school who wish to become licensed practical nurses must pass the appropriate exam administered by their state board of nursing.

A popular question among students who have completed nursing school and are preparing to take the NCLEX in the United States or Canada is, “How much does it cost to take the NCLEX PN?”

It’s a reasonable question to ask because students have spent a significant amount of money on their education and are not yet licensed to work as practical nurses. Finances might be tight, and individuals studying for the NCLEX want to plan ahead for their exams.

Here’s the answer to the question “How much does NCLEX PN cost?” as well as some more NCLEX enrollment information.

Let’s get started with our free NCLEX PN practice test to pass the actual exam on your first attempt.

How Much Does It Cost To Take The NCLEX PN Exam?

how much does it cost to take the nclex pn

How much does NCLEX PN cost? While there are numerous scholarship opportunities for nursing schools, financial aid for the NCLEX registration price is restricted. Your nursing program or other professional groups in your area may be able to help you pay for the NCLEX.

People have gotten curious about the NCLEX PN exam cost to apply for the NCLEX-PN as the number of applicants for the exam has increased. 

Typical Costs

  • In general, the registration price for either the NCLEX PN exam is $200.

  • An exam booked at an international location costs $350.

If you don’t know, the NCLEX-PN is a form of NCLEX that a student takes to become a prospective practical nurse in the United States, Australia, or Canada, depending on the state board they apply for.

Cost of NCLEX PN exam is involved:

  • Exam candidates must first request that their state board of nursing declare them eligible to take the NCLEX, after which the board will issue them a test authorization.
  • An ATT can last anywhere from 60 to 365 days, depending on the state, although typically usually lasts 90 days.
  • While the ATT is still valid, the candidate should take the NCLEX exam.
  • Candidates must bring suitable identification and a copy of their ATT letter to the exam.
  • They will have five hours to complete the NCLEX PN exam which includes a brief tutorial and two optional breaks.
  • The National Council of State Boards of Nursing discusses what to expect on the exam day and afterward.
  • According to the state board of nursing’s rules, candidates who fail the NCLEX should wait 45-90 days before retaking the exam.

Extra Costs

  • Candidates often fund state licensure fees of $75-$200 or more when applying to the state board of nursing for an authorization to test.
  • The cost of NCLEX preparation books and materials ranges from $25 to $100 or more, with online prep programs costing $50 to $350 and in-person workshops costing $100 to $500 or more, depending on what is included.
  • The exam results are delivered to the state board of nursing candidate selected on the application; after registration, changing the state board of nursing is $50.
  • After registering, changing the type of exam costs $50.

Exam Preparation for the NCLEX

  • The NCLEX is part of the state licensing process, and licensure criteria differ; candidates should contact the state board of nursing in the state where they want to work for application forms and specific processes.
  • The National Council of State Boards of Nursing provides answers to frequently asked concerns about the NCLEX exam, such as eligibility and registration requirements.

Is there any financial help available?

how much does it cost to take the nclex pn

While there are numerous scholarship opportunities for nursing schools, financial aid for the NCLEX registration price is restricted. Your nursing program or other professional groups in your area may be able to help you pay for the NCLEX.

Note: If you are a veteran who qualifies for the GI Bill, you may utilize a portion of your entitlement to pay for licensure exam fees such as the NCLEX.

What is the procedure for registering for the NCLEX?

The NCLEX registration process consists of four steps:

  • An approved nursing program is required.
  • Submit a licensure/registration application to your nursing regulating organization.
  • Obtain your Test Authorization (ATT)
  • Register with Pearson VUE (online or over the phone) and schedule your NCLEX exam.

When Should You Take the NCLEX? When Should You Schedule Your Exam?

how much does it cost to take the nclex pn

The earliest you can take your NCLEX exam after graduating from an accredited nursing program is 45 days. This varies by state, so check with your state’s nursing regulatory agency to see what the requirements are in your area.

Note: You will obtain your authorization to test once your nursing regulatory authority has pronounced you eligible to test. You must test by the deadline specified on your ATT. These dates vary, but an ATT typically lasts 90 days.

If you’re thinking about taking the NCLEX, make sure you’re completely prepared. Our online learning resources will have you confident and prepared on exam day. UWorld is the industry leader in NCLEX prep. We can help you ace the exam on your first try with NCLEX-style questions, extensive and exhaustive rationales, and exact performance tracking.

The Bottom Line

Have you been clear about “How much does it cost to take the NCLEX PN?”? 

Make sure you make smart decisions. This will remove a few stumbling blocks and give you more time to prepare and revise for your NCLEX exam.

If you truly want to be an international nurse, you must make sacrifices. Just remember that no matter how high the payments are, if you just do your best, it will be worth it. Every chance you get is a terrific chance to get closer to your goals.