Resource Center

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 will describe the methods used to achieve the quality exam development and maintenance the nursing profession has come to rely on and trust.

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NCSBN is exploring technology that would allow candidates to take the NCLEX outside of traditional test centers. This new way to take the NCLEX will offer candidates more convenience. Learn more at nclex.com/nclex-online.page.

This annual publication provides data on candidate performance on the NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN Examinations and also includes data on the candidates who have been able to take the NCLEX-RN for purposes of licensure/registration in Canada since January 5, 2015. This publication provides a brief overview of how Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) works, how the passing standard is set, and how the pass/fail decision is made at the beginning. The main part of the publication is a detailed breakdown of candidate performance for 2023 and includes the pass rates by candidate type, degree type and country. In addition, the publication contains NCLEX historical data (e.g., pass rates, passing standards, and volume) since CAT administration started in 1994.

This webinar will be presented by the Consolidated Services Exams team. The team will review various resources offered for our exam members to keep current on NCSBN exam policies and procedures, opportunities to get involved with the development of the exams and ways to bring examination information to your jurisdiction.

This webinar will provide an overview of a critical procedure that ensures all examinees have an equal opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities on entry-level content when taking the NCLEX. We will explain the methodology of differential item functioning (DIF) that is used to ensure that each item is measuring all diverse subgroups in the same way. Engaging in on-going item analysis is part of keeping the NCLEX a reliable and valid licensure exam where each examinee has an equal opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge. The Examinations Measurement and Testing team will present the webinar.

Webinar topics include:

• Overview of what DIF is and how we measure it.
• Overview of how we handle items identified with DIF.

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Engaging in initial and ongoing standardized practices is part of keeping the NCLEX a reliable and valid licensure exam where the examinee has an equal opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge. As nursing practice evolves, it is essential to consistently ensure exam items reflect the same. This session will describe the standardized methods, such as the Nursing Regulatory Body Review and other practices used to maintain a valid and reliable exam used for entry-level licensure purposes. The Examinations Content Development team will present the webinar.

Webinar topics include:

1. Nursing Regulatory Body Review process
2. NLCEX Item Pool maintenance

NCSBN staff answers questions from attendees at the 2023 NCSBN NCLEX Conference.