Yes, the NLN NEX exam is entirely multiple choice. All questions follow a standard multiple-choice format with one correct answer and several distractors (incorrect options).
The exam includes 160 multiple-choice questions divided equally across four sections:
- Verbal Ability (Reading and Vocabulary)
- Mathematics
- Science
- Critical Thinking
Each question presents a stem (the problem or scenario) followed by four answer choices, labeled A through D. Test-takers must select the single best answer based on the information provided.
What to Expect
The NLN NEX exam multiple choice questions emphasize comprehension, application, and reasoning—not just recall. For example, math questions may present a word problem requiring unit conversion, while science questions might ask you to interpret a biological process.
There are no alternate-format items such as fill-in-the-blank, drag-and-drop, or select-all-that-apply—unlike the newer Next Generation NCLEX. The exam multiple choice format remains traditional and straightforward.
Test-Taking Strategy
Since all items are multiple choice, practice eliminating incorrect answers to improve your odds on uncertain questions. Read each stem carefully to avoid misinterpreting what is being asked.
Use official NLN practice materials to become familiar with the phrasing and logic used in the NLN NEX exam multiple choice questions.
The the exam uses only multiple-choice questions across all sections. This consistent format allows focused preparation through targeted practice and strategic reasoning.
Confirm with your program whether the full exam or only certain sections are required, but expect all questions to follow the standard multiple-choice structure.