Too late to take NCLEX?

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I graduated 10 years ago from nursing school with a BSN but I never got the chance to take the NCLEX. Here's why:

1. We moved to another state right after I graduated.

2. I was working at a private doctors office (as a receptionist) while studying for my NCLEX, but then got pregnant.

3. Been having marital problems past few years - everytime I want to start getting serious and study for the NCLEX life interferes!

4. Going through separation and divorce.

I finally want to do what I've always wanted to do but my fear is...

Is it too late for me to take the NCLEX? Have I been out of school too long? Please HELP!!! I need your advice.

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Specializes in LTC.

My moms friend took the nclex and passed 15 years after becoming a RN. You can do it. You may have to take a refresher course though. Good luck. Its NEVER too late.

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Specializes in Medical and general practice now LTC.

We have had a few members take the exam several years from school. As long as you meet BON requirements I can't see any problems

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First you need to contact your Board and find out what their requirements are. You might be pleasantly surprised to find out that all you need to do is to submit the application as if you graduated last month. Or, you might need to take a refresher course. Find out from the Board what they want. When it is time to get ready for the test, go to the bookstore and pick out a review text. Saunders, 4th edition is a good choice, but you might find another that you will like better. Get a calendar, and work out a study plan and begin. Set up your testing appointment far enough out that you have enough time to go over everything from start to finish. There are also other options. You can attend a live review course or find one online, Hurst and Kaplan come to mind. You can also look into the ATI program. There are many others. Don't waste too much money on getting several, because too many resources can lead to confusion and/or fragmented preparation. Better to stick with one or two, and go through them thoroughly. If your Board does not require a refresher course for licensure, you may want to consider one after your have passed the boards. Try to get a course that includes clinical practice to better prepare you for that first job. Glad to see you're going after it, and good luck!

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