When should you schedule your NCLEX for?

[Scarlettz, BSN, RN]

I graduate this May 2012. But, I am enrolled in a Kaplan course my last couple of weeks in May. I have done about 3,675 questions (actually more, but I only count questions where I have read the rationales in my tally.)

So, my question is, when did you take the NCLEX after graduation (and when did you graduate?) If you are graduating this semester, when would you ideally like to take the NCLEX (and when do you graduate)?

I cannot schedule the exam until June 1st or later. Ideally, I would like to take it June 15- July 31st. But, I am not sure what is too soon (not enough study time) and what is too late (too much lapse after graduation.)

From what I gather, you get to choose a time frame in which you would like to take the test. How big of a time frame do you supply? I am not sure how hard it is to get your first choice. For anyone who has taken the exam, how does this work? Did you get the test date within your time frame? Or, were you given a later test date from what you've requested?

I really want to get to 5,000 questions by test date. I also want to review certain trouble areas - OB, fractures/bones, osteoporosis, and GI stuff like ulcers, and venous and arterial insufficiency, etc. I am scared to do it too soon OR too late. Any ideas for a good time frame?