Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT)
Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) is the method used on the NCLEX-PN and NCLEX-RN. The system uses responses and item difficulty to estimate ability, selects items suited to that estimate and applies an exam stopping rule to decide pass or fail.
Exam Tip
The exam gives 85 to 150 items, including 15 unscored pretest items. Know the 95% confidence, maximum-length and run-out-of-time rules. The number of items alone does not indicate pass or fail.
How CAT Works on the NCLEX-PN
The computer estimates your ability using your scored responses and the difficulty of those items. It selects items suited to that estimate while meeting the test plan's content requirements. A single answer or the apparent difficulty of an item gives you little information about your result.
| Exam feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Exam length | 85 to 150 items, including 15 unscored pretest items |
| Time limit | Up to 5 hours, including the introductory screen and all breaks |
| Passing standard | -0.18 logits through March 31, 2029 |
| Navigation | A submitted response is final |
Why the Exam Ends
| Rule | How pass or fail is determined |
|---|---|
| 95% confidence | After at least 85 items, the exam can stop when the computer is 95% confident your ability is clearly above or below the passing standard. |
| Maximum length | At 150 items, the computer uses the final ability estimate. An estimate at or above the standard passes. |
| Time expires before a decision | Fewer than 85 completed items results in a fail. With at least 85 completed items, the final ability estimate uses the scored responses given before time expired. An estimate at or above the standard passes. |
Exam Alert
The number of items alone does not tell you whether you passed. Pretest items look like scored items, so give every item your attention. In an unfolding case study, use the information available for the item on screen.
Study This Term In
1 Job Wiki RadioThird-party resources · We may earn a commission from purchases.
Next Generation NCLEX-PN Study Guide 2025-2026: Complete Review + 725 Questions and Detailed Answer Explanations (5 Full-Length Exams)
By Test Prep, Newstone
$29.99 · 
Online course on Mometrix
Practice exams on ExamEdge
Take courses on UdemyRelated Terms
Clinical Judgment
Clinical judgment is the process by which nurses observe, interpret, respond to, and reflect on patient data to make informed decisions about patient care. The NCSBN Clinical Judgment Measurement Model (NCJMM) is the framework used on the NCLEX to evaluate this competency.
Nursing Process
The nursing process is a cyclical framework for planning, delivering and evaluating patient-centered care. ADPIE is a common way to remember assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation and evaluation.
Your AI study companion · 10 free interactions a day
Stay Updated
Get free exam tips and study guides delivered to your inbox.