The NLN NEX exam (Nursing Entrance Exam) consists of 160 multiple-choice questions total. These are divided across four academic content areas designed to assess readiness for nursing school.
The four sections and their approximate question counts are:
- Verbal Ability (Reading Comprehension and Vocabulary): 40 questions
- Mathematics: 40 questions
- Science: 40 questions
- Critical Thinking: 40 questions
All 160 questions are scored, and the exam is typically administered in a single session with a total time limit of 2 hours and 40 minutes (160 minutes). This gives test-takers about one minute per question, requiring both accuracy and efficient time management.
Important Notes
While the structure is standardized, not all nursing programs use every section. Some schools may choose to administer only the Verbal, Math, and Science portions—excluding Critical Thinking—depending on their admission requirements.
Always confirm with your specific program which sections of the NLN NEX exam you must complete.
Because the NLN NEX is less commonly used today than exams like the TEAS or HESI, updated practice materials are limited. However, the National League for Nursing (NLN) provides official study guides that reflect the current format and question types.
The NLN NEX exam includes 160 questions across four domains, with 40 questions per section. Preparation should focus on core academic skills and timed practice to ensure success on test day.