How much does the NCLEX cost?
The NCLEX registration fee is $200 in the US for anyone who registers before February 1, 2027. From that date it is $350, retakes included. On top of that you pay your state board of nursing its own application fee, usually about $75 to $400, and $150 more to schedule at a test center abroad.
In more detail
NCSBN voted in 2026 to raise the registration fee, the first change since 2000. The day that counts is the day you complete registration, not your exam date. Register before February 1, 2027 and you pay $200 even if you test later. Register on or after it and you pay $350. Canada goes from $360 to $570 CAD, and Australia from $200 to $350 USD.
You pay the registration fee when you register with Pearson VUE. The state board fee is separate and set by each board, and you normally apply and pay it first. Add fingerprints and a background check where your state requires them, often $50 to $150, plus any transcript fee from your school.
The other NCLEX fees stay the same: $150 for international scheduling and $50 to change your nursing regulatory body or your exam type (RN or PN) after you register. Registration fees are not refunded for any reason, including a missed appointment or not rescheduling at least 24 business hours ahead. Eligible veterans and their dependents can be reimbursed through the VA's qualified program.
NCLEX fees at a glance (NCLEX.com and NCSBN, October 2026)
| Fee | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| NCLEX registration, US | $200, then $350 | $350 if you register on or after February 1, 2027 |
| NCLEX registration, Canada | $360 CAD, then $570 CAD | Same date, local taxes not included |
| NCLEX registration, Australia | $200, then $350 USD | Same date |
| State board application | about $75 to $400 | Set by each board, varies by state |
| International scheduling fee | $150 | Only for a test center abroad, unchanged |
| Change board or RN/PN after registering | $50 | Unchanged |
| Retake | Registration fee again | $350 if you register on or after February 1, 2027 |
Step by step
- 1
Check your state board's fee page first, since you apply there before you register for the NCLEX.
- 2
Apply to your state board of nursing and pay its application fee.
- 3
Register with Pearson VUE and pay the registration fee with a Visa, Mastercard or American Express card.
- 4
If you are ready to test soon, register before February 1, 2027 to pay $200 instead of $350, but only if you can keep your appointment, since fees are not refunded.
- 5
Pick an exam date you can keep. Missing it, or changing it inside 24 business hours, costs you the fee.
- 6
Budget for fingerprints, a background check and transcripts, and ask about veterans reimbursement if it applies to you.
How StudyPDF helps
StudyPDF cannot lower the fee, but it can help you get ready to pass on the first try. Upload your nursing lecture notes, textbook chapters and the questions you missed, and it builds flashcards, quizzes and timed practice exams on your weak spots, then tracks per concept what still trips you up. Set your test date in the Plan tab for dated sessions up to the day. The free plan covers about 4 materials a week, no card needed.
See also
More questions
Does the NCLEX fee increase apply to retakes?
Yes. The fee depends on the day you register, retakes included. Register for a retake on or after February 1, 2027 and it costs $350. The exam date does not change the fee.
Can I get my NCLEX fee back?
No. NCLEX registration fees are not refunded for any reason, including a missed appointment or a late cancellation. Eligible veterans can be reimbursed through the VA's qualified program.
Do it on your own course
Upload your lectures and ask Bo. Cited answers, plus flashcards, exams, and more built from your material.