When Should I Start Studying for the NCLEX

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Hello! I am a newly-accepted nursing student (sophomore in Fall '14) and was wondering when I should start preparing or studying for the NCLEX exam? I know that obviously going through the program will prepare me but should I be spending extra time studying now; if not, then when? Thank you!

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Specializes in ICU/ Surgery/ Nursing Education.

In the program I attended we began answering NCLEX questions from a variety of sources in the second year. I would assume that I have answered maybe 7000-8000 questions (or more). I can't even estimate it, I have done so many. All I can say is I feel fairly well prepared to take the NCLEX on June 4th. It wouldn't hurt to practice taking NCLEX questions now.

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Our program pays for Kaplan test prep. Each semester we have to take specific Kaplan designed tests based on the classes we are in, like med surge. At the end, we also have paid for a 4 day Kaplan test prep class. Hopefully your school has something similar.

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Hi! Thanks for the response! Did you use a specific book or flashcard set to study?

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Specializes in ICU/ Surgery/ Nursing Education.
Hi! Thanks for the response! Did you use a specific book or flashcard set to study?

I have used many. Saunders, Silvestri, Kaplan, etc. There are apps from many companies like Davis mobile and even Kaplan. In your app store search for Kaplan Qbank and there are a free 165-185 questions. Many review books have questions on CD or online for practice. If you read for a while on allnurses you will get many examples. Make sure you read the rationales as well, because you can learn why the right choice was selected.

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You should start studying NCLEX questions the first week of nursing school once you've covered some material. Most universities have free material students can use or simply using google can yield some great returns.

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