NCLEX exam dates and scheduling
There are no fixed NCLEX sitting dates. Once your board declares you eligible and you hold an Authorization to Test, you book any available slot at a Pearson VUE center inside your ATT’s validity window. Plan around that window, because it expires.
How scheduling works
- Get your ATT first. You cannot book until your board has confirmed eligibility and Pearson VUE has issued the Authorization to Test.
- Book inside the ATT window. The window is set by your board, and an ATT that expires means you must register and pay again.
- Choose a center and date. Pearson VUE shows available slots near you.
- Cancel or reschedule on time. Missing your appointment without cancelling forfeits the exam fee.
If you do not pass
- Wait 45 days before retaking, according to the reported rule.
- Pay the $200 exam fee again, and any fee your board charges for reapplying.
- Expect a yearly limit. NCSBN’s policy caps attempts per year, and your board may set stricter limits of its own.
Planning your date
Apply to your board early, because processing times differ and you cannot test without the ATT.
Work backwards from your graduation date, your board's processing time and how long your prep needs.
Book once your practice readiness scores say you are ready, not just because your ATT is about to expire.
Common questions
What happens if my ATT expires?
You must register again and pay the exam fee, so do not leave scheduling to the last week of your window.
Can I reschedule?
Check Pearson VUE’s current policy. Rescheduling inside its cut-off, or missing the appointment, can cost you the fee.