Key Takeaways
- Register through your nursing program or institution — you cannot register independently with the NLN for the NEX
- The exam costs $52.50 for onsite testing or $73.50 for virtual testing via Proctor360
- Virtual testing requires a webcam, microphone, stable internet, and a private quiet room
- Bring a valid government-issued photo ID with your name matching registration exactly
- A basic 4-function calculator is allowed — no scientific or graphing calculators
- Scores are typically available within 1-2 business days through your institution
- Arrive 15-30 minutes early to onsite testing or log in 15 minutes early for virtual testing
- There is no penalty for guessing — answer every question even if you are unsure
Registration, Scheduling & Test Day
How to Register
Registration for the NLN NEX is coordinated through your nursing program, not directly through the NLN website. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Confirm Your Program's Requirements
- Contact your nursing program's admissions office
- Confirm they require the NLN NEX (not TEAS or HESI A2)
- Ask about minimum percentile requirements
- Determine testing deadlines for your application cycle
Step 2: Register Through Your Institution
- Your nursing program will provide registration instructions
- Some programs administer the NEX on campus
- Others direct you to register for virtual testing via Proctor360
- Create an NLN account if required by your institution
Step 3: Pay the Exam Fee
| Testing Format | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Onsite (at institution) | $52.50 | Taken at a designated testing center |
| Virtual (Proctor360) | $73.50 | Taken from home with live remote proctoring |
Step 4: Prepare Your Testing Environment
For onsite testing:
- Know the exact location, building, and room number
- Plan to arrive 15-30 minutes early
- Parking and transportation arrangements
For virtual testing (Proctor360):
- Reliable internet connection (wired preferred)
- Working webcam and microphone
- Private, quiet room with good lighting
- Clear desk — only computer, calculator, and ID allowed
- Close all other programs and browser tabs
- Test your equipment at least 24 hours before your exam
What to Bring on Test Day
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid Photo ID | Government-issued (driver's license, passport, state ID) |
| 4-Function Calculator | Basic calculator with +, -, x, / functions only |
| Registration Confirmation | Printed or electronic confirmation |
| Pencil/Scratch Paper | If allowed at your testing center (check in advance) |
NOT Allowed:
- Scientific or graphing calculators
- Cell phones, smartwatches, or electronic devices
- Notes, textbooks, or study materials
- Food or drinks (unless approved accommodation)
- Bags or personal items (stored outside testing area)
Time Management on the NEX
Each section gives you 60 minutes. Here is how to pace yourself:
| Section | Questions | Time | Target Pace |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verbal Ability | 58 | 60 min | ~1 min per question |
| Mathematics | 45 | 60 min | ~1.3 min per question |
| Science | 60 | 60 min | ~1 min per question |
Time management tips:
- Do not spend more than 2 minutes on any single question — flag it and return later
- Answer easy questions first to bank time for harder ones
- Keep track of your pace — at the halfway point, you should be roughly halfway through
- Leave 5 minutes at the end to review flagged questions
- Never leave a question blank — there is no penalty for guessing
Understanding Your Score Report
After the exam, your score report will include:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Composite Score | Overall score on a 0-300 scale |
| Composite Percentile | Your ranking compared to other test-takers nationally |
| Verbal Ability Score | Section score and percentile |
| Mathematics Score | Section score and percentile |
| Science Score | Section score and percentile |
Interpreting percentile scores:
| Percentile | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 90th+ | Scored higher than 90% of test-takers — excellent |
| 75th-89th | Well above average — highly competitive |
| 50th-74th | Average to above average — meets most program requirements |
| 25th-49th | Below average — may not meet program minimums |
| Below 25th | Significantly below average — strongly consider retaking |
Scores are typically available within 1-2 business days through your institution or the NLN testing portal.
What is the cost of taking the NLN NEX exam at an onsite testing center?
What type of calculator is allowed on the NLN NEX?
Which of the following are required for virtual NEX testing via Proctor360? (Select all that apply)
Select all that apply
On the NLN NEX, there is no penalty for guessing, so you should answer _____ question even if unsure.
Type your answer below
How long is each section on the NLN NEX exam?
Which of the following is the BEST time management strategy during the NEX?