The National Council of State Boards of Nursing voted to extend the modified NCLEX Examinations until September 30, 2020, to ensure candidates will be able to test in environments that comply with Center of Disease Control and Prevention guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In compliance with social distancing measures imposed by national, federal, and local governments, the NCSBN previously unscheduled NCLEX appointments for nursing license candidates across the country and began rolling out a modified examination on March 25, 2020.
The exams were shortened to four hours per appointment to accommodate as many aspiring nurses as possible per day while still following CDC guidelines.
The pretest and the special experiment Next Generation NCLEX section were also removed.
Through simulations and testing, they were able to shorten the exam without making it more difficult for examinees. The modified examination also maintained its psychometric integrity to ensure fair testing for all.
Candidates are required to bring and wear their own mask to the testing center for the duration of their testing appointment. They are screened before being allowed to test and are also encouraged to practice proper hygiene to prevent the spread of the virus.
Testing center employees undergo screening and are asked to wear masks before they are allowed to work. The centers are also thoroughly cleaned and disinfected between each test taker. This includes disinfecting any objects each test taker might have touched or encountered.
As health professionals continue to fight on the frontlines, the demand for nurses and other critical roles in healthcare rise. The NCSBN and Nursing Regulatory Bodies (NRBs) are exerting their best efforts to serve public health needs while ensuring the health and safety of frontliners.
Rescheduling NCLEX For Nursing Candidates
Are you a nursing candidate whose NCLEX schedule has been cancelled? If you’re worried about your Authorization To Test expiring, all ATTs have been extended for six months.
To reschedule, simply log on to the Pearson VUE website. There, you’ll find the next available time and date. The site will also show you the available testing centers. Pick one that’s most convenient for you.
You do not have to take your NCLEX in the same area where you wish to practice nursing. Candidates can simply choose a testing center closest to them.
Another common concern is the validity of identification (ID) cards to be used prior to testing. Some candidates’ IDs expire before their new NCLEX schedule and it might not be easy for people to renew their IDs during this time.
You can use any ID as long as it contains a recent photograph and signature, your full name in Roman letters, and was issued by the government.
NRBs will continue to accept, process, and issue applications for NCLEX Authorization To Test. To find out when you can receive your results, you can contact your respective NRB.
At present, offices are receiving a large volume of calls and emails. Most of your NCLEX questions can be answered on the NCSBN or Pearson VUE websites.
