What is the Easiest State to Pass the NCLEX?

The state that is easiest for you to pass the NCLEX will depend on a variety of factors. While some states may have higher pass rates than others, remember that your success on the NCLEX is ultimately determined by your own preparation and commitment. It’s not just about the state, but also about your personal readiness.

How is the NCLEX Score Determined?

The NCLEX uses a computerized adaptive testing (CAT) format, meaning the difficulty of the questions you receive will be based on your performance. The exam will continue until it is determined with a 95% confidence level that you either meet the passing standard or do not meet the standard. Your final score will not be disclosed, as the NCLEX uses a pass or fail system.

Top States with High NCLEX Pass Rates

NCLEX-RN

Here’s a list of the top 10 states with the highest passing rates:

1. New Hampshire – 89.7%
2. Alaska – 89.3%
3. North Dakota- 87.7%
4. Colorado – 87.3%
5. South Carolina- 87.1%
6. Idaho- 87.0%
7. Louisiana – 86.6%
8. Nebraska – 86.3%
9. District of Columbia – 86.2%
10. Tennessee – 86.1%

Here is the complete list:

For first-time, U.S.-educated candidates taking the NCLEX-RN® in 2022. It includes the total number of candidates and those who passed for each jurisdiction throughout the year:

State	Candidates (Total)	Passed (Total)	Pass Rate (%)
Alabama	3,667	3,078	83.9%
Alaska	215	192	89.3%
American Samoa	6	2	33.3%
Arizona	4,586	3,888	84.8%
Arkansas	2,132	1,673	78.5%
California	14,223	11,904	83.7%
Colorado	2,228	1,944	87.3%
Connecticut	2,196	1,803	82.1%
Delaware	602	493	81.9%
District of Columbia	218	188	86.2%
Florida	18,761	11,987	63.9%
Georgia	4,886	4,035	82.6%
Guam	27	27	100.0%
Hawaii	484	367	75.8%
Idaho	908	790	87.0%
Illinois	7,281	5,575	76.6%
Indiana	4,184	3,422	81.8%
Iowa	2,077	1,715	82.6%
Kansas	1,871	1,523	81.4%
Kentucky	3,280	2,669	81.4%
Louisiana	2,445	2,117	86.6%
Maine	951	791	83.2%
Maryland	2,923	2,342	80.1%
Massachusetts	4,457	3,643	81.7%
Michigan	5,268	4,160	79.0%
Minnesota	4,030	3,043	75.5%
Mississippi	1,773	1,486	83.8%
Missouri	3,796	3,149	83.0%
Montana	621	513	82.6%
Nebraska	1,397	1,206	86.3%
Nevada	1,701	1,463	86.0%
New Hampshire	856	768	89.7%
New Jersey	4,340	3,530	81.3%
New Mexico	1,059	844	79.7%
New York	11,080	8,152	73.6%
North Carolina	4	3	75.0%
North Dakota	633	555	87.7%
Northern Mariana Islands	18	7	38.9%
Ohio	9,397	7,126	75.8%
Oklahoma	2,250	1,770	78.7%
Oregon	1,636	1,397	85.4%
Pennsylvania	8,639	7,275	84.2%
Rhode Island	791	635	80.3%
South Carolina	2,734	2,382	87.1%
South Dakota	813	705	86.7%
Tennessee	4,164	3,584	86.1%
Texas	14,839	12,502	84.3%
Utah	3,022	2,377	78.7%
Vermont	379	315	83.1%
Virgin Islands	33	14	42.4%
Virginia	4,933	4,061	82.3%
Washington	2,715	2,251	82.9%
West Virginia	1,279	1,081	84.5%
Wisconsin	4,279	3,473	81.2%
Wyoming	327	270	82.6%
Total	187,990	150,216	79.9%

NCLEX-PN

Here are the top five states with the highest passing rates:

1. Wyoming – 98.4%
2. Utah – 96.5%
3. District of Columbia – 96.4%
4. Idaho – 95.9%
5. Montana – 95.1%
6. Vermont – 95.1%
7. South Dakota – 94.8%
8. Maine – 94.1%
9. Alabama – 93.8%
10. Indiana – 93.2%

Here is the complete list:

For first-time, U.S.-educated candidates taking the NCLEX-PN® in 2022. It includes the total number of candidates and those who passed for each jurisdiction throughout the year:

Jurisdiction	Candidates (Total)	Passed (Total)	Pass Rate (%)
Alabama	991	930	93.8%
American Samoa	3	2	66.7%
Arizona	465	414	89.0%
Arkansas	793	641	80.8%
California	7741	5641	72.9%
Colorado	365	314	86.0%
Connecticut	725	462	63.7%
Delaware	115	101	87.8%
District of Columbia	28	27	96.4%
Florida	3628	2379	65.6%
Georgia	829	702	84.7%
Guam	2	2	100.0%
Hawaii	102	42	41.2%
Idaho	147	141	95.9%
Illinois	1424	1099	77.2%
Indiana	471	439	93.2%
Iowa	699	642	91.8%
Kansas	641	569	88.8%
Kentucky	620	494	79.7%
Louisiana	1007	806	80.0%
Maine	51	48	94.1%
Maryland	214	195	91.1%
Massachusetts	605	520	86.0%
Michigan	902	725	80.4%
Minnesota	833	674	80.9%
Mississippi	663	546	82.4%
Missouri	1101	937	85.1%
Montana	41	39	95.1%
Nebraska	275	244	88.7%
Nevada	94	86	91.5%
New Hampshire	180	149	82.8%
New Jersey	1661	1238	74.5%
New Mexico	130	111	85.4%
New York	2106	1568	74.5%
North Carolina	902	823	91.2%
North Dakota	145	135	93.1%
Ohio	3176	2360	74.3%
Oklahoma	1067	928	87.0%
Oregon	340	289	85.0%
Pennsylvania	1990	1605	80.7%
Rhode Island	283	228	80.6%
South Carolina	588	517	87.9%
South Dakota	229	217	94.8%
Tennessee	1369	1169	85.4%
Texas	3836	3343	87.1%
Utah	657	634	96.5%
Vermont	143	136	95.1%
Virgin Islands	–	–	–
Virginia	1337	1091	81.6%
Washington	373	313	83.9%
West Virginia	424	337	79.5%
Wisconsin	979	886	90.5%
Wyoming	127	125	98.4%
Total	47636	38076	79.9%

Factors that Influence NCLEX Pass Rates

Several factors can influence NCLEX pass rates, both at an individual and state level. It’s important to understand these factors and how they can impact your success on the exam.

Educational Background and Preparation

Your educational background and the quality of your nursing program can have a significant impact on your NCLEX performance. A strong foundation of nursing knowledge and skills, gained through a reputable program, can increase your chances of passing the exam. Adequate preparation, including thorough review of nursing content, practice questions, and mock exams, is crucial to your success.

Test-Taking Skills

Having effective test-taking skills is essential for performing well on the NCLEX. This includes critical thinking, time management, and the ability to analyze and prioritize information. Being familiar with the format and structure of the exam, as well as practicing with NCLEX-style questions, can help you develop these skills.

Personal and Psychological Factors

Your personal and psychological factors, such as confidence, motivation, and stress management, can influence your performance on the NCLEX. Maintaining a positive mindset, managing test anxiety, and adopting healthy coping mechanisms can contribute to your success. Take care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally throughout your NCLEX preparation.

Tips to Pass the NCLEX Regardless of the State

Regardless of the state you choose to take your NCLEX exam, there are certain tips and strategies that can improve your chances of success.

Adequate Preparation

Start your preparation early and allocate dedicated study time each day. Create a study plan, set achievable goals, and stick to them. Utilize resources such as textbooks, online courses, and study guides to review nursing content. Practice with NCLEX-style questions to familiarize yourself with the exam format and enhance your critical thinking skills.

Utilizing NCLEX Review Resources

Take advantage of NCLEX review resources, such as review courses, practice exams, and question banks. These resources can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, provide targeted content review, and simulate the exam environment. Utilize online forums and study groups to engage with fellow nursing students and exchange study tips and strategies.

Healthy Lifestyle and Stress Management

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing stress are essential for optimal performance on the NCLEX. Get enough sleep, eat nutritious meals, and exercise regularly to keep your mind and body in peak condition. Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, to alleviate test anxiety. Take breaks when needed and engage in activities that help you relax and recharge.

Conclusion

Passing the NCLEX is a significant milestone in your nursing career, but it’s just the beginning. Remember that success is not determined solely by the state you choose, but by your own dedication and readiness. Stay positive, stay focused, and believe in yourself. You are capable of achieving your goals and becoming a competent and compassionate nurse. Good luck!