What Is the Pearson VUE NCLEX Trick and Should You Do It?
If you’re a nursing student preparing to take the NCLEX examination, or have already taken it and are eagerly awaiting your results. You may have heard that some candidates use something called the "Pearson VUE NCLEX trick" for a sneak peek at their results.
But what is the Pearson VUE NCLEX trick, does it actually work, and how accurate is it? This article examines this method, explains how to do it, and lets you know whether it’s worth trying or not.
What is the Pearson VUE NCLEX Trick?
Nursing school grads must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become licensed RNs. RN candidates use the Pearson VUE trick to try to predict their test results before officially receiving them.
This NCLEX trick involves checking your exam status through the Pearson VUE website shortly after taking the test.
The idea behind the trick is that the system will prevent candidates with passing scores from re-registering for the test. On the other hand, if the candidate has not passed the exam, they can proceed with re-registering for the test.
What is an NCLEX “Good Pop-Up”?
When you re-register for the NCLEX, you may receive one of two pop-up messages. The "good pop-up" NCLEX message states that you previously scheduled the exam and cannot re-register. Based on the Pearson VUE trick, this may indicate that you passed the NCLEX.
What is an NCLEX “Bad Pop-Up”?
If the website prompts a payment on your card and permits your registration, it may mean you failed the NCLEX. Remember, this "bad pop-up" is NOT your official result, and the Pearson VUE trick is not 100% accurate. The only source you can trust with certainty is the official results released by your state.
How to Do the Pearson VUE Trick
- Step One: Take the NCLEX
- Step Two: A few hours after completing, log in to Pearson VUE
- Step Three: Re-register to take the NCLEX on Pearson VUE
- Step Four: See if Pearson VUE lets you reregister to take the exam again
Should You Do the Pearson VUE NCLEX Trick? Pros and Cons
Since the Pearson VUE NCLEX trick isn't always accurate, using it warrants careful consideration. Here are some potential pros and cons of this trick:
Pros of Using the Pearson VUE NCLEX Trick
Early Insight
The trick offers a potential sneak peek into your exam results. It allows you to manage your expectations and emotions before the official release.
Possibly Reduced Anxiety
For candidates grappling with nerves and anticipation, the trick might provide a sense of relief by offering some indication of their performance.
Future Planning
If the trick suggests a positive outcome, you may feel more comfortable planning for the next steps in your career. It could help you focus on planning for job applications or further education without waiting for the official results.
Cons of Using the Pearson VUE NCLEX Trick
Inaccurate Results
The trick's reliability is questionable. There have been instances where it incorrectly indicated a pass or fail result, leading to unnecessary stress or unwarranted celebrations.
Emotional Roller Coaster
Relying on the trick can result in emotional turbulence if it provides conflicting information, causing unnecessary distress.
Unofficial Information
Understanding that the Pearson VUE NCLEX trick is NOT an official means of determining your exam status is crucial.
It is impossible to know if you passed the NCLEX exam before receiving your official results. Official results are only available through your state's National Regulatory Body (NRB). The Next Generations NCLEX website states, "If you haven’t received a result after six weeks, they should contact their NRB.”
While the NCLEX pop-up trick may offer insight, waiting for official results is essential. You should consult your nursing state board for accurate and verified information about your exam outcome.
Why Students Should Avoid the Pearson VUE Trick
Some students may want to avoid the Pearson VUE trick because it can produce a false positive or false negative result.
The following scenarios underscore the unpredictability of the Pearson VUE NCLEX trick and its potential to provide inaccurate indications of exam outcomes, whether in the form of false positives or false negatives.
False Positive Scenario
-
Student #1 used the NCLEX trick after their exam. The system prevented them from registering, leading them to believe they had passed. They celebrated with friends and family but later discovered they didn't pass the NCLEX upon the release of official results.
False Negative Scenario
-
Student #2 used the trick and was able to register again. Believing they had failed, they started preparing for a retake. However, they later learned they had passed. The trick had caused unnecessary stress and misled them with a false impression of failure and many sleepless nights of worry.
What a Nurse Educator Really Thinks About the Pearson VUE NCLEX Trick
Nurse educators often approach the Pearson VUE NCLEX trick with a blend of caution and understanding. They recognize the immense pressure and anticipation that nursing students face when awaiting their NCLEX-RN results.
Unsurprisingly, students want to know their results as soon as possible so they can finally relax after finishing their nursing programs.
However, most educators underscore the significance of relying on official communication channels. Students can trust the established procedures for receiving exam results from their nursing regulatory boards. No matter what the “trick” results say, many nurse educators encourage students to stay patient and emotionally prepare for positive and negative outcomes.
The best outcomes stem from preparing for the NCLEX in advance as much as possible. No amount of worry can change your results after you finish the exam. If you fail the NCLEX, you can retake the test.
What to Do Instead of the Pearson Vue Method
The Pearson VUE NCLEX trick comes with uncertainties and potential inaccuracies. However, there are several methods you can use to manage your anxiety as you await your official NCLEX results.
Watch For Official Notifications
Be vigilant about checking your email and any communication from your Nursing Regulatory Body. They will provide accurate and official information regarding your exam results, including instructions on what to do next.
Additionally, some candidates can access their "unofficial results" within two business days if their NRB utilizes the Quick Results Service.
Focus on Self-Care
Try focusing on your mental and emotional well-being instead of fixating on the outcome predicted by the trick. Engage in activities that help reduce stress, like exercise, meditation, quality time with others, and hobbies. After all your hard work, you deserve it!
Plan for the Future Regardless
Whether you've passed or not, consider your next steps. Check out job opportunities, explore areas of nursing that interest you, or research further education options to enhance your career prospects.
Failing the NCLEX is not the end of the world. The good news is that you now have first-hand experience sitting the exam to nail it next time. If you fail the NCLEX, you will receive an NCLEX Candidate Performance Report. This form can help you understand where your strengths and weaknesses are so you can focus on that for the next exam.
Trust the Process
Remember that the NCLEX-RN exam is just one part of your journey to becoming a registered nurse. Success in nursing comes from continuous education, resilience, and a commitment to providing the highest quality patient care.
Rather than relying on a trick, focus on your personal growth, career goals, and the positive impact you can make as a dedicated and skilled nursing professional.
Good luck, future nurse. You’ve got this!
FAQs
