How to Excel After Failing NCLEX-RN Exam on 1st Attempt?

We all face failure at some point in life, whether personally, professionally, or academically. However, failure doesn’t define us; what truly matters is how we respond to it.

Failing the NCLEX® can feel devastating. After months (or even years) of hard work, the exam is meant to be the final step toward your dream career.

So when the result isn’t what you hoped for, it’s natural to feel discouraged, lost, or even embarrassed.

But here’s the truth: failing the NCLEX once does not mean you won’t succeed. In fact, many incredible nurses failed the NCLEX-RN on their first attempt and are now thriving in their careers. What matters is what you do next.

Here’s a guide to help you move forward, rebuild confidence, and get ready to pass the next time.

https://archerreview.com/assets/video/Archer-NCLEX-Strategies-for-failed-RNs.mp4

Tip 1: Give yourself permission to feel

The NCLEX isn’t just another test, it’s the culmination of your training, goals, and nursing future. So when it doesn’t go as planned, the disappointment can feel overwhelming.

So, what's the first step after failing the NCLEX? Take time to process. Cry if you need to. Rest. Talk to someone you trust. What you shouldn’t do is keep the pain bottled up.

Healing begins when you acknowledge the setback instead of pretending it doesn’t hurt.

Everyone bounces back on their own timeline, and that’s okay. What matters is that you choose to rise again.

Remember: failure is temporary—giving up is permanent. Every setback on your nursing journey is simply the first step toward your comeback.

Tip 2: Know the facts and and retake policy

You are not alone. Thousands of U.S. and internationally educated nursing graduates fail the NCLEX every year. Passing rates vary:

• U.S.-educated first-time test takers pass at a higher rate.
• Internationally educated nurses often face lower pass rates, especially as repeat testers.

These statistics aren’t here to discourage you, but to remind you that failure is more common than you think—and recovery is possible.

Good news: The NCLEX allows retakes. According to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN):You can retake the exam 45 days after your last attempt.

Tip 3: Reflect—what went wrong?

Failing the NCLEX is rarely about intelligence. Many factors can affect performance, including:

• Lack of sleep or illness
• Family or personal stress
• Inadequate review or ineffective study strategies
• Severe test anxiety
• Not knowing how to approach NCLEX-style questions

Before planning your next attempt, honestly reflect on what may have held you back. Identifying the problem is the first step to fixing it.

Tip 4: Create a smarter strategy

Moving forward means moving with purpose. Ask yourself:

• What study strategies didn’t work last time?
• Which areas am I weakest in?
• Do I struggle more with content knowledge or test-taking strategies?
• Do I need structured guidance this time instead of studying alone?

Consider whether you’re ready to retake soon, or if you need more time. Either is okay. The goal is to prepare in a way that sets you up for success.

When you’re ready:

• Reapply with your BON (Board of Nursing) for another ATT (Authorization to Test).
• Pay your retake fee.
• Schedule your exam with Pearson VUE.

Some states have additional requirements before retaking, so always confirm with your BON.

We, at Archer Review, are ready to help!

Tip 5: Use the right resources

This is where strategy matters most. Not all resources are created equal—some overwhelm you with information, while others teach you how to think like the NCLEX.

At Archer Review, we’ve built tools for student success. Our features include:

• A 3,100-question Q-bank with in-depth rationales for both correct and incorrect answers.
• Video-enhanced explanations to help reinforce key concepts.
• Peer comparison statistics so you can track progress.
• Personalized support to identify weaknesses and strengthen test-taking skills.

You can also check out our free NCLEX resources on the Archer YouTube Playlist.

Final Words: Don’t give up

One exam does not define you as a nurse. Many who fail the NCLEX once go on to pass on their next attempt—and then build meaningful, impactful nursing careers.

So pick up the pieces, learn from the past, and move forward with a stronger plan. Your license, your career, and your future patients are waiting.

👉 Watch this video for strategies after failing the NCLEX

We’re here to help you succeed.