Waiting too long

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Is three months out of school too long to wait to take the NCLEX after studying?

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Specializes in Pediatric/Adolescent, Med-Surg.

I don't think so. It'll probably be 2-3 months by the time I test.

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Specializes in oncology, transplant, OB.

I wouldn't wait any longer than 3 months. I took mine two months after graduating and by the last week I wasn't motivated at all and felt burnt out. I think a month and a half is the perfect amount of time between graduating and taking the nclex. But everyone is different!

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Not at all.

There are quite a few here that do not test until at least a year after they graduate for whatever reason.

And if one graduates out of the US, it is never going to be earlier than that.

Testing should be done only when you are comfortable with the material and never before.

Best of luck to you.

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Specializes in Tele,CCU,ER.

I agree with suzanne. You should take the NCLEX when you feel ready and NOT ANXIOUS!!! You may never feel like you know everything, but just be confident and when you do have this confidence-you should take it...

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Specializes in LTC, case mgmt, agency.

Oh, I have you beat!!! I've been out since 2006. So, we will see if time matters.:p

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I graduated in May and I just now took my exam. I passed with 75Q. I don't think it's too bad if you're studying but everyone tells me to take it ASAP if you're ready.

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Specializes in Cardiac Nursing.

I'm having to wait for financial reasons, so there is no hard rule as to when to take it. I agree with the other posts that you should only take it when you feel comfortable and ready.

LOL myself personally will probably second guess myself all the way through the test. I've been reviewing stuff, but feel I've forgotten more than I knew.

I'm sure you will do fine whenever you take it.

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Specializes in Family Nurse Practitioner.

Like the others have said it is important to take it when you are ready and as long as you don't lose momentum studying for that many months you should be fine. I took my RN and LPN within 3 weeks of graduating because I wanted my knowledge from school to be fresh in my brain but everyone is different. Good luck to all!

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I have been out since dec being a foreign graduate and all and even though i have lost a little knowledge (ekg's and such) my experience while on clinicals sticks with me more than anything and is helping me heaps while i study.

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