Q: What is a good score on the Nex?
A: A “good” score on the NLN NEX exam depends on your goal. For most nursing programs, a composite score of 100 or higher is considered competitive for admission, while many competitive programs may prefer or require scores above 120. The scale runs from approximately 50 to 200, with 100 representing the national average.
Q: How is the NLN NEX scored?
A: The NLN NEX (National League for Nursing Nursing Entrance Exam) produces a composite score that combines your performance on three main sections:
- Math (approximately 40 questions)
- Science (approximately 60 questions covering biology, chemistry, physics, and anatomy & physiology)
- Reading (approximately 40 questions)
You also receive individual scores for each section. The composite score is the primary metric used by nursing schools for admissions decisions.
Q: What score do I need to pass?
A: There is no national “passing” score. Each nursing program sets its own minimum required or competitive score threshold. You must contact your target schools directly or check their admissions websites to find their specific NEX score requirements. These minimums can range from as low as 75 to well over 110.
Q: How can I find out my target school’s required score?
A: The most reliable methods are:
- Check the program’s official admissions website for prerequisite and entrance exam requirements.
- Contact the program’s admissions office or nursing department advisor directly via email or phone.
- Speak with a pre-health or nursing advisor at your current educational institution.
Q: How should I interpret my score report?
A: Your official score report will show your composite score and your percentile rank. The percentile rank indicates how you performed compared to other test-takers. For example, a percentile rank of 75 means you scored higher than 75% of examinees. A high percentile rank (e.g., 80th or above) is a strong indicator of a competitive score, even if the program doesn’t publish a specific number.
Q: What is considered an excellent score?
A: Scores that significantly exceed a program’s minimum requirement are excellent. Generally:
- Scores of 120-130+ demonstrate strong mastery and will make you a highly competitive applicant at most schools.
- Scores of 140+ are exceptional and place you in a top percentile nationally.
Q: What if my score is below my program’s requirement?
A:
- Check Retake Policies: Most programs allow you to retake the NEX exam, though there is often a mandatory waiting period (e.g., 30 days) and a limit on total attempts (often 2-3).
- Invest in Targeted Prep: Use your score report to identify weak sections (math, science, reading). Focus your study efforts there using official NLN prep books or a dedicated review course.
- Consider Other Programs: If your score remains below the threshold for your first-choice school, research other quality nursing programs with different score requirements.
For more insights on the exam’s difficulty and how to prepare, you can review our resource on the NLN NEX exam.