Resource Center

NCSBN has been conducting research to determine whether clinical judgment and decision making in nursing practice can be reliably assessed through the use of innovative item types. This session gives an update on the NCLEX Examinations.

NCSBN ensures fairness for different groups taking the NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN exams. Candidates with comparable nursing knowledge should perform similarly on exam items, regardless of their gender, ethnicity or other factors irrelevant to nursing practice. This session describes how sensitivity and differential item functioning panel reviews contribute to the fairness and legal defensibility of an exam.

In 2024, NCSBN conducted the PN and RN Practice Analyses to inform the development of the 2026 NCLEX-PN and NCLEX-RN Test Plans. The periodic performance of practice analysis (i.e., job analysis) studies assists NCSBN in evaluating the validity of the NCLEX test plan that guides content distribution of the licensure examinations. This session discusses the results of the 2024 Practice Analyses and pending updates to the NCLEX test plans that will be effective April 2026.

The NCLEX is a valid and reliable standardized exam that measures the minimal competency required to practice safe, entry-level nursing. To achieve this, the exam is developed using a multilayered process that includes an evidence-based content outline, item development using nursing content expert volunteers, several reviews and industry-standard exam principles. This session describes the methods used to achieve the quality exam development and maintenance the nursing profession has come to rely on and trust.

2025 Founders Award

Tony Zara, PhD, Former NCSBN COO, Special Services Division; Vice President, Assessment Solution at Pearson VUE

This prestigious award is reserved for those who demonstrate the highest regard for the ideals and beliefs upon which NCSBN was founded.

2025 Exceptional Contribution Award

Jacci Reznicek, EdD, MSN, RN, ANP-BC, Nebraska Board of Nursing

The Exceptional Contribution Award is given for significant contribution by a member who is not a president or executive officer and has demonstrated support of NCSBN’s mission.

2025 Regulatory Achievement Award

College of Registered Nurses of Alberta

The Regulatory Achievement Award recognizes the member that has made an identifiable, significant contribution to the mission and vision of NCSBN in promoting public policy related to the safe and effective practice of nursing in the interest of public welfare.

2025 Catalyst Award

Douglas Bungay, MN, RN, Chief Executive Officer and Registrar, Nova Scotia College of Nursing

The Catalyst Award is given to an individual who sparks change and transformation in nursing regulation.

2025 Nova Award

Alison Bradywood, DPN, MN/MPH, RN, NEA-BC, Executive Director, Washington State Board of Nursing

The Nova Award recognizes emerging nursing regulatory leaders.