Getting ready for the NCLEX exam can feel scary.
But don’t worry! Lots of great programs can help you study and feel confident on test day.
The right NCLEX prep course can boost your chances of passing on your first try. We’ve checked out some of the top options to make your choice easier.
Let’s look at four awesome NCLEX study programs that can help you crush the exam and start your nursing career.
1) Kaplan NCLEX Prep
Kaplan offers a top-notch NCLEX prep program that’s worth checking out.
Their full NCLEX prep course gives you tons of study materials to work with.
You’ll get 18 hours of lessons from expert nurse educators.
These classes are available live or on-demand, so you can fit them into your schedule.
The program includes a huge question bank with over 3,800 practice questions.
You’ll also get detailed answers to help you understand tricky topics.
Kaplan provides 3 full-length computer adaptive tests to test your skills.
These mock exams mimic the real NCLEX, helping you get comfortable with the format.
Need extra help? The NCLEX Channel offers additional lessons you can access anytime.
It’s great for reviewing specific topics.
Kaplan even has a mobile app, so you can study on the go.
Their online NCLEX-RN review lets you ask questions and get answers from experts in real-time.
With Kaplan, you’re getting a comprehensive prep package.
It’s designed to boost your confidence and help you ace the NCLEX.
2) Nursing.com NCLEX Academy
NCLEX Academy from Nursing.com is a top-notch program for future nurses.
It offers a bunch of cool features to help you ace your exam.
The program includes over 300 video lessons.
These cover all the important topics you’ll need to know for the NCLEX.
You can watch them anytime, anywhere.
Practice makes perfect, right? That’s why NCLEX Academy gives you access to more than 6,000 practice questions.
You can test your knowledge and see where you need to improve.
The program also offers simulated exams to give you a feel for the real deal.
These help you get used to the test format and timing.
Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry! NCLEX Academy has pre-made study plans.
They guide you day by day, so you always know what to focus on.
The best part? You get all this for a whole year.
Plus, it’s pretty affordable compared to other prep courses.
It’s a great deal for what you get.
3) Hurst Review NCLEX Courses
Hurst Review offers solid NCLEX prep options for nursing students.
Their courses focus on helping you pass the exam on your first try.
You can choose from different NCLEX review packages to fit your needs.
The NOW package gives you online access to study materials and practice questions.
If you prefer a more structured approach, check out their N-Stream option.
It includes live online classes led by expert instructors.
For those who like in-person learning, Hurst offers live review sessions in various locations.
These classes cover key nursing concepts and test-taking strategies.
All Hurst packages come with a big question bank.
You’ll get over 1,500 practice questions to test your knowledge.
They also include newer question types to match the latest NCLEX format.
Hurst claims a high success rate for first-time test takers.
While this sounds great, remember that individual results can vary.
Your own effort and study habits play a big role too.
4) UWorld NCLEX Test Prep
UWorld NCLEX Test Prep is a popular choice for nursing students.
It offers over 2,700 practice questions to help you get ready for the big exam.
The questions are written by nurses and educators.
They’re designed to be challenging and improve your clinical judgment skills.
You’ll get detailed explanations for both right and wrong answers.
This helps you understand the reasoning behind each question.
UWorld’s questions mirror the style and difficulty of the real NCLEX-RN exam.
This can help you feel more prepared on test day.
The program includes vivid illustrations and images to make complex concepts easier to grasp.
You can use UWorld’s practice tests to gauge your readiness.
They simulate the actual exam experience, which can boost your confidence.
Remember, consistent practice with UWorld can help sharpen your nursing knowledge.
It’s a tool many students find valuable in their NCLEX prep journey.
Understanding the NCLEX Exam
The NCLEX exam tests your nursing knowledge and skills.
It’s a key step in becoming a licensed nurse.
The exam covers important nursing topics and uses different question types.
Exam Format
The NCLEX uses computerized adaptive testing.
This means the test adjusts to your skill level as you answer questions.
You’ll face 75 to 145 questions, depending on how you do.
Most questions are multiple-choice.
But you’ll also see other types:
- Fill-in-the-blank
- Ordered response
- Hot spots
- Chart/exhibit
The exam lasts up to 5 hours.
You get optional breaks, so plan your time wisely.
Key Focus Areas
The NCLEX covers four main areas of nursing:
- Safe and Effective Care Environment
- Health Promotion and Maintenance
- Psychosocial Integrity
- Physiological Integrity
These areas include topics like:
- Patient safety
- Infection control
- Basic care and comfort
- Pharmacological therapies
The exam tests both your knowledge and your ability to apply it.
You’ll need to use critical thinking to answer scenario-based questions.
To prep, try UWorld’s NCLEX course.
It offers practice questions that mirror the real exam.
Tips for Choosing a Preparation Program
Picking the right NCLEX prep program can make a big difference in your success.
It’s important to think about how you learn best and what features each program offers.
Assessing Your Learning Style
Think about how you learn best.
Do you like reading, watching videos, or doing practice questions? Some folks learn better on their own, while others need a teacher.
If you’re a visual learner, look for programs with lots of charts and diagrams. UWorld NCLEX Prep has great visuals that might work for you.
For those who like to study solo, self-paced online courses could be perfect.
But if you need more structure, consider a live online class or in-person program.
Don’t forget to try before you buy! Many programs offer free trials or sample classes.
This lets you test the waters before diving in.
Evaluating Program Features
Check out what each program includes.
Look for these key features:
- Practice questions (the more, the better)
- Detailed explanations for answers
- Full-length practice tests
- Study schedules or planners
- Mobile app for on-the-go studying
The Princeton Review NCLEX-RN Prep offers over 3,700 practice questions.
That’s a lot of practice!
Price matters too.
Compare costs and see what fits your budget.
Some cheaper options like NCLEX Mastery can be just as good as pricier ones.
Look for programs that update their content often.
The NCLEX changes, so your prep should too.
Also, check if the program offers any guarantees, like a pass guarantee or free retake if you don’t pass.
Strategies for Effective Studying
Good study habits are key to passing the NCLEX.
Focus on managing your time well and using quality practice questions.
Time Management Techniques
Set a study schedule and stick to it.
Break your day into chunks for different topics.
Use a planner or app to track your progress.
Try the Pomodoro method.
Study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break.
After 4 rounds, take a longer break.
Don’t cram! Spread out your studying over weeks or months.
This helps you retain info better.
Mix up your study spots.
Try the library, a quiet café, or a park.
A change of scene can boost focus.
Practice Question Resources
UWorld offers tons of practice questions.
They’re known for matching the NCLEX style well.
Kaplan Nursing has self-paced and live online options.
Both give you 6 months of access to study materials.
Aim to do about 60 questions a day, 5 days a week.
That’s 300+ questions weekly.
It sounds like a lot, but it’ll pay off.
Always review why answers are right or wrong.
This helps you learn from your mistakes and remember key concepts.
Try NurseAchieve for advanced practice exam tech.
It can make your studying more efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many nurses have questions about NCLEX prep.
Let’s tackle some common concerns about online programs, retakes, in-person options, study plans, and top-rated courses.
What are some highly rated NCLEX prep programs I can find online?
You’ve got plenty of great online options. Kaplan NCLEX Prep is a top pick with loads of practice questions. UWorld NCLEX Test Prep is another fan favorite, known for its tough questions that really get you ready.
Hey, any recommendations for NCLEX review courses that are perfect for someone retaking the test?
If you’re giving it another shot, don’t sweat it! Hurst Review NCLEX Courses are great for retakers.
They break down complex topics and give you solid test-taking tips.
Which in-person NCLEX review courses are worth checking out?
Want face-to-face prep? Achieve Test Prep offers awesome in-person classes.
You’ll get live instruction and instant feedback, which can be super helpful.
Anyone know a good study plan for crushing the NCLEX?
A solid plan is key! Start with a diagnostic test to see where you stand.
Then, hit the books for 2-3 hours daily, focusing on your weak spots.
Mix in practice questions and full-length tests as you go.
What’s the best NCLEX review course slated for 2024?
For 2024, Nursing.com NCLEX Academy is looking pretty sweet.
They’re always updating their content and have a user-friendly platform that makes studying less of a chore.
Where can I find NCLEX prep programs with really high pass rates?
Definitely look for high pass rates! Hurst Review boasts an impressive first-attempt pass rate. UWorld also has a strong track record of getting students to pass.