Nursing Entrance Exam by the National League for Nursing
A good score on the NEX (Nursing Entrance Exam by the National League for Nursing) typically means scoring in the 60th percentile or higher overall. However, program requirements vary, so “good” depends on your school’s admission standards.
The NEX reports scores as percentile ranks, comparing your performance to other nursing applicants nationally. For example, a 70th percentile score means you scored better than 70% of test takers.
Program-Specific Benchmarks
Many nursing programs set minimum passing scores between the 50th and 70th percentiles. Competitive programs often expect a good score on the NEX of 70 or above in core sections like Reading, Math, and Science.
Some schools evaluate each section separately. You might need at least a 60th percentile in Math and Science, even if your overall score is higher.
What Admissions Committees Look For
A good score on the NEX demonstrates readiness for the academic demands of nursing school. Programs prioritize strong performance in:
- Reading comprehension (for understanding care plans and research)
- Math (for safe medication and dosage calculations)
- Science (for grasping anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology)
Critical Thinking scores may also influence decisions, especially in programs focused on clinical judgment.
How to Achieve a Good Score
Use official NLN study materials to target high-yield content. Take timed practice exams to build speed and accuracy. Focus on weak areas identified through diagnostic tests.
Since the NEX uses percentile ranking, aim not just to answer correctly—but to outperform the applicant pool.
In summary, a good score on the NEX is generally 60th percentile or higher, with top programs expecting 70+. Always check your target school’s published cutoff scores or speak with an admissions advisor to set a precise goal.
With focused preparation, you can achieve a good score on the NEX and strengthen your nursing school application.