The 2026 NCLEX-RN test plan applies from April 1, 2026 through March 31, 2029. Use the RN plan when interpreting a practice question or explaining a nursing decision.
| Client Needs area | Share of exam items |
|---|---|
| Management of Care | 15–21% |
| Safety and Infection Prevention and Control | 10–16% |
| Health Promotion and Maintenance | 6–12% |
| Psychosocial Integrity | 6–12% |
| Basic Care and Comfort | 6–12% |
| Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies | 13–19% |
| Reduction of Risk Potential | 9–15% |
| Physiological Adaptation | 11–17% |
These ranges tell you what the exam covers. Your own practice patterns and available time can help you decide where to start. For example, choose a missed practice concept, find its area in the plan, and write one sentence explaining which decision was difficult.
Try this in the forum. Start your question with [RN]. Include the area, the cues you noticed in an original scenario, and the point where your reasoning changed.
Read the official RN plan (PDF) · See the official plan dates · Explore the interactive study map