Going to take NCLEX for the first time, how long should i prepare for it?

[lovelivelearn]

Hi,

I'm a canadian trained new grad. I am thinking about taking the NCLEX for the first time and have a few questions about it since I don't know much about the NCLEX at all except that its completely different from the canadian exam (NCLEX has more med-surg type of questions?)

1. How long do I need to prepare for this exam? It took me about a month for the canadian exam.

2. Which text books should i use to study and do practice questions from??

3. What is the maximum amount of times you can write the NCLEX? here in Canada it's 3 times and your out! (scary)

Any comments, recommendations or advice would be GREATLY appreciated!!!

THANK YOU!!!

[caliotter3]

You should give yourself extra time since you will be studying for an entirely different type of exam. Get at least one review book, Saunders Comprehensive Review is recommended by many, and look over it to get a good first impression of what you are up against. Based upon your opinion of where you stand, figure out how long you think you will need to cover the material. Specifics as to how many times you can test depend upon the individual state that you would be attempting to get licensed in. For example, in CA, you can take the test as many times as you need. Whereas, in TX, I believe, you must pass within four years after graduation (don't know how that affects someone like you). At any rate, you need to look into the requirements where you want to get the US license.

[moonisbright]

1. How long you should prepare for it - entirely depends on you and how well you can memorize and understand content. Some people take only 2 weeks to prepare and pass while on the other hand some people take 6 months to prepare. I think understanding the content is the key to passing!

2. Saunders comprehensive review helps, if you have money to spend - Kaplan helps, Lacharity priortization, delegation and assignment helps! there are so many reviews out there - take what suits you.

3. Maximum times you can take depends on the state you live in, for example I live in Missouri - so in my state, there is no limit.

[lovelivelearn]

Thanks! these are all helpful advice!! How about the mosby nclex review book with 1000+ practice questions? is this one helpful too? I find some of the material in the book similar to that of the canadian exam, which makes me wonder...