Best Hurst Review Alternatives for NCLEX Prep
Looking for alternatives to Hurst Review? Whether you want a free option, better question bank, or just don't want to spend $299-$499—we've got you covered.
Our Top Picks
Why Consider Hurst Review Alternatives?
Hurst Review has helped nursing students for 30+ years. But at $299-$499, it's one of the priciest options available.
Premium Pricing
At $299-$499, Hurst is one of the most expensive NCLEX prep options available.
Limited Access
Only 90 days access included. You'll need to pay more if you need extensions.
Content Focus Only
Hurst emphasizes content review but has a smaller question bank than competitors.
No Question Bank Focus
Many students supplement Hurst with UWorld or other question banks - adding to cost.
Hurst Review's 2026 Pricing
What you'd pay if you went with Hurst
* Many students also purchase UWorld ($149-$439 extra) for additional question practice.
Best Hurst Review Alternatives for NCLEX
For NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN exam preparation
OpenExamPrep
RECOMMENDEDBudget-conscious nursing students who want quality free content
Pros
- Completely free - no credit card required
- AI tutor for personalized help
- NCLEX-RN, NCLEX-PN, CNA, and TEAS prep included
- Modern, clean interface
Cons
- Newer platform
- No pass guarantee (it's free!)
UWorld
Students who want the best question bank and detailed explanations
Pros
- Industry-leading question bank
- Detailed rationales for every question
- Performance tracking and analytics
- Money-back guarantee available
Cons
- Expensive for longer access
- No content review - questions only
- No live instruction
Archer Review
Budget-conscious students who want content + questions
Pros
- Most affordable paid option
- Live review sessions included
- Content review + questions
- Readiness assessments
Cons
- Question quality varies
- App can be buggy
- Less comprehensive than UWorld
NCSBN Learning Extension
Students who want official NCSBN materials at low cost
Pros
- Created by NCLEX test makers
- Authentic test experience
- Most affordable official resource
- Content review included
Cons
- Short access period
- Basic interface
- No live instruction
- No mobile app
Nurse Plus Academy
Students who want flexibility without long-term commitment
Pros
- Affordable monthly subscription
- Flexible - cancel anytime
- Video content and practice questions
- Live webinars included
Cons
- Monthly cost adds up
- Smaller question bank
- Less comprehensive analytics
Quick Comparison Table
| Provider | Price | Content Review | Question Bank | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OpenExamPrep | FREE | Free comprehensive prep | ||
| UWorld | $149-$439 | Best question bank | ||
| Archer Review | $65-$225 | Budget content + questions | ||
| NCSBN | $50-$75 | Official test maker materials | ||
| Hurst Now | $299 | Limited | Content focus | |
| Hurst Complete | $499 | Limited | Live + all features | |
| Nurse Plus | $39/mo | Flexible subscription |
When Hurst Review Might Still Be Right
Hurst Review isn't a bad choice for everyone. It could be the right fit if:
Hurst's methodology focuses on teaching you how to think through questions
Hurst offers in-person and online live review sessions
If you haven't studied nursing content recently
Some nursing programs partner with Hurst for discounts
Frequently Asked Questions
Why look for Hurst Review alternatives in 2026?
While Hurst Review is known for its content review and critical thinking approach, there are several reasons to consider alternatives: (1) High cost - Hurst costs $299-$499, making it one of the priciest NCLEX prep options, (2) Limited question bank - many students find they need to supplement with UWorld or other question banks, adding more cost, (3) 90-day access - the limited access period may not be enough for everyone, (4) Free alternatives exist - OpenExamPrep offers comprehensive NCLEX prep at no cost.
What is the best free alternative to Hurst Review?
OpenExamPrep is the best free alternative to Hurst Review for NCLEX prep. It offers comprehensive study materials for NCLEX-RN, NCLEX-PN, CNA, and TEAS exams, an AI tutor for personalized help, practice questions, and a modern interface - all completely free with no credit card required. While it doesn't have live review sessions like Hurst, the free AI tutor can explain any concept you're struggling with.
Is Hurst Review worth $299-$499?
Hurst Review can be worth it if you: (1) Struggle with critical thinking and clinical judgment, (2) Need structured content review before practicing questions, (3) Prefer live instruction and classroom-style learning, (4) Learn best through audio/visual content rather than reading. However, many students find better value combining a cheaper content review with UWorld questions, or using free resources like OpenExamPrep alongside a premium question bank.
What is Hurst Review known for?
Hurst Review is known for its 'core content' review approach and critical thinking methodology. Their program focuses on teaching you how to think through NCLEX questions rather than memorizing facts. They offer live review sessions (in-person and online), recorded video content, and their signature 'Elevate' program for first-time test takers. Hurst has been preparing nursing students for over 30 years.
Should I use Hurst Review or UWorld for NCLEX?
This depends on your learning style. Hurst Review focuses on content review and critical thinking - it's better if you need to learn or relearn nursing concepts. UWorld focuses on question practice with detailed rationales - it's better if you already know the content and need question practice. Many students use both, but this adds significant cost ($299-$499 for Hurst + $149-$439 for UWorld). A more budget-friendly approach is using free content review (like OpenExamPrep) combined with UWorld for questions.
Which Hurst Review alternative has the highest pass rate?
UWorld claims the highest pass rate at 96%+ for students who complete their program. Archer Review claims 94%, and most major providers claim 90%+ pass rates. Note that pass rate claims are self-reported and may use different methodologies. The national NCLEX-RN pass rate for first-time US-educated candidates is around 87%, so any reputable prep course should help you meet or exceed this.
Still Have Questions?
Our AI tutor can answer specific questions about any of these NCLEX prep providers, compare features, or help you create a study plan.
Start Your NCLEX Prep for Free Today
Why pay $299-$499 when you can start learning right now for free? OpenExamPrep offers comprehensive NCLEX study materials at no cost.