NCLEX Exam Cost: What You’ll Really Pay (and How to Budget for It)

Hey friend, let’s talk about something no one really preps you for during nursing school: how much the NCLEX actually costs. Like yeah, we all know the exam is a big deal, but the price tag? Not always super clear until you're knee-deep in receipts and registration fees.

So if you're wondering how much you need to set aside to take the NCLEX (and everything that comes with it), I got you. Here’s the full breakdown of what the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN will really cost in 2025—and a few tips to keep things budget-friendly while you prep to pass on your first try.

What’s the Base Cost of the NCLEX?

Let’s start with the basics.

In the U.S., the NCLEX registration fee through Pearson VUE is:

  • $200 USD for both the NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN

But that’s just the starting point. There might be additional costs depending on where you live or where you’re applying for licensure.

Extra Fees You Might Not Be Expecting

Yeah, the $200 is just the beginning. Here are some additional costs you should plan for:

1. Board of Nursing Application Fee

Each state charges a different fee when you apply to take the NCLEX through their nursing regulatory body (NRB). This typically ranges from:

  • $75 to $300, depending on the state

2. Background Checks & Fingerprinting

Most states require a criminal background check and fingerprinting before they’ll approve you to test. Expect to pay:

  • $50 to $100 for this part

3. Transcript Requests

Some nursing schools charge a fee to send your official transcripts to the Board of Nursing:

  • $10 to $20 depending on your school

4. Retake Fees (Just in Case)

Hopefully you pass the first time, but if you need to retest:

  • Another $200 to Pearson VUE

  • Plus any additional state reapplication fees

Want to avoid that retake cost altogether? That’s where yournursingspace.com comes in. Our Next Gen NCLEX study guides and realistic practice exams are designed to get you exam-ready on your first try—so you don’t have to spend another $200 (or go through the stress again).

Optional Costs That Might Actually Be Worth It

These aren’t required, but a lot of students spend money here to boost their prep:

1. NCLEX Review Courses

These can cost anywhere from $50 to $500+, depending on the program. But let’s be real—not all of them are actually worth it. If you’re looking for something affordable, super targeted, and actually helpful, check out the personalized study plans and question banks we’ve got at yournursingspace.com. They’re made for the NGN format and don’t cost a fortune.

2. Study Materials

From physical books to digital PDFs, you might spend around $30 to $100 here. Pro tip: bundle everything together with one of our all-in-one study kits to save time (and money) stressing over what to use.

Total Estimated Cost to Take the NCLEX

Here’s a quick sample budget for someone taking the NCLEX in the U.S.:

Expense Estimated Cost
Pearson VUE Registration $200
State Board Application Fee $100 – $300
Background Check & Fingerprints $75
Transcript Fee $15
Study Materials/Prep Resources $50 – $200
Total $440 – $790

Of course, this can vary based on your state and how much you decide to spend on prep—but this gives you a ballpark to work with when budgeting.

Tips to Budget for NCLEX Without Losing It

  1. Start saving early. Even $25 a week adds up fast.

  2. Use student discounts. We offer bundles at yournursingspace.com that cost way less than the big-name prep courses—and are made for the 2025 NGN format.

  3. Only buy what you’ll use. Don’t fall for giant review books you’ll never open. Keep your study tight and high-yield.

  4. Avoid the retake trap. The best money move? Pass the first time. That’s what our NGN-style practice exams are made for—simulating the real test so you’re ready when it counts.

Final Thoughts

The NCLEX definitely comes with a price tag—but knowing what to expect (and how to prep smart) makes a huge difference. You’ve already done the hard part by getting through nursing school. Now it’s time to set your budget, grab your best prep tools, and knock this thing out.

Need affordable, high-impact prep resources that actually work for NGN-style questions? Head to yournursingspace.com and check out our practice tests, study plans, and guides made just for you.

You’ve got this—RN is literally one test away.

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