NCLEX-RN Questions and Answers for New Graduates

If you are a new graduate preparing to write the NCLEX-RN Exam, the following questions and answers (Q&As) will help to guide you through the exam process.   

Please click here for more information on how to apply.

There are two permanent test center in Halifax year-round as well as a temporary site in Sydney.

Permanent test center:
Pearson Professional Centre
Suite 220, 6960 Mumford Road
Mumford Professional Centre
Halifax, Nova Scotia B3L 4P1

Pearson Professional Centre
Suite 201, 287 Lacewood Dr
Halifax, Nova Scotia B3M 3Y7


You can choose to take the NCLEX-RN exam at any domestic testing center (Canada and US) or at an international testing center for an additional fee. Click here for other testing locations.

You will be able to start booking the NCLEX-RN Exam appointments once we receive information about your nursing program completion. As a first time writer, you are guaranteed to be offered an appointment within 30 days of placing your request.

Results will be released to you within two weeks of taking the exam, although often earlier.

You are informed by e-mail when you pass the NCLEX-RN Exam. It is your responsibility to notify your employer when you pass the exam because we do not notify employers of exam results.

It is your responsibility to notify your employer because we do not notify employers when you pass the exam.

There is no limit to the number of times you can write this exam. However, if you have passed the NCLEX or another registration exam that is accepted by us, you are not permitted to re-write the NCLEX through us.

You must allow for at least 45 days between each exam writing but an appointment can be booked at any time. 

Passing the NCLEX is only one of several registration and licensure requirements you must meet before you can become registered and licenced. While not an exhaustive list, these requirements include:

  • Currency of practice, meaning you must have: 
    • graduated from a nursing program within the previous five licensure years OR
    • worked a specified number of practice hours OR
    • completed additional assessments or education as required by NSCN
  • Demonstration that you have the capacity, competence and character to safely and ethically practice nursing 
  • Completion our Continuing Competence Program

If you have any questions, please reach out to us at registration@nscn.ca. We strive to respond to you as soon as possible. However, due to the high volumes of emails and complexity of inquiries, our response time may vary.