How Much Does It Cost to Take the NCLEX?

Blog | July 3, 2025 by 1NURSE

If you're getting ready to take the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination), it's smart to understand all the costs involved — not just the exam fee itself, but also the hidden costs many students overlook.

In this guide, we break down the NCLEX cost, additional expenses, and tips on how to prepare smartly without overspending.

NCLEX Exam Cost (As of 2025)

The basic exam fee depends on the licensing country and is set by Pearson VUE, the official testing provider.

NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN (for U.S. and Canada):

Registration fee: $200 USD

This is the standard cost to register for the NCLEX through Pearson VUE.

Register for the NCLEX here

Additional International Fees

If you're taking the exam outside the U.S., you'll need to pay an international scheduling fee:

International test center fee: $150 USD
(This is added to your $200 fee, totaling $350 USD)

Example: Filipino nurses taking the NCLEX in Manila or another international test center will typically pay this amount.

Other Costs to Keep in Mind

Here are other common expenses NCLEX candidates should plan for:

Item	Estimated Cost
Application fee to your state BON	$50 – $300+ (varies)
Fingerprinting/background check	$30 – $75
Passport-sized photos	$10 – $20
Review course (optional but recommended)	$0 – $500+
Travel and lodging (if testing away from home)	Varies

Tip: Always check your state’s Board of Nursing (BON) website for exact fees and processes.

What About NCLEX Review Costs?

Preparing for the NCLEX doesn’t have to be expensive.

Instead of spending $300–$500 on a full review course, many students are now using affordable mobile-first platforms like1NCLEX — designed specifically to provide smart, budget-friendly prep.

With 1NCLEX, you get:

1,800+ Flashcards
4,000+ Learning Quiz Cards
4,000+ Free Practice Questions
All for only $19 USD

Perfect for busy nursing students looking to study anytime, anywhere without breaking the bank.

Quick Checklist: NCLEX Cost Breakdown (U.S.-based)

Expense	Estimated Cost
Pearson VUE registration	$200 USD
State Board of Nursing application	~$100 (varies)
Background check & fingerprinting	~$50
Test prep (e.g., 1NCLEX app)	$19 USD
TOTAL (approx.)	~$369 USD