At the start of this page, you’ll find a button that provides full access to the Nursing School Pre-Admission Exam (PAX) practice test. Right after, there’s an opportunity to engage in a comprehensive practice test tailored for thorough review. These tests are essential tools for demonstrating your skills, pinpointing areas for improvement, and refining your study strategies.

To enhance your preparation further, particularly in areas requiring additional attention, we’ve developed specialized quizzes. These quizzes are carefully crafted to target specific sections of the Nursing School Pre-Admission Exam (PAX) exam, ensuring a focused and efficient study experience.

Nursing Schools Pre-Admission Exam (PAX) Domain Exams

The Nursing School Pre-Admission Exam (PAX) is a standardized exam used by nursing schools to evaluate the abilities and skills of prospective students. It’s essential for candidates to understand the breakdown of the exam, including its different sections, the number of questions, and their respective weightings. 

Here’s a detailed look at the exam’s structure:

Domain 1: Verbal, Reading Comprehension

  • Exam Percentage: 19%
  • Focus: This part tests your ability to understand and interpret written material. It typically consists of passages followed by questions that assess comprehension and critical thinking.

Welcome to your PAX Domain 1: Verbal, Reading Comprehension

Domain 2: Verbal, Word Knowledge

  • Exam Percentage: 19%
  • Focus: This segment evaluates your vocabulary level, specifically your understanding of word meanings, usage, and relationships.

Welcome to your PAX Domain 2: Verbal, Word Knowledge

Domain 3: Mathematics

  • Exam Percentage: 37%
  • Focus: The Mathematics section assesses basic mathematical skills and understanding in areas such as algebra, geometry, conversions, graphs, and applied mathematics.

Welcome to your PAX Domain 3: Mathematics

Domain 4: Science

  • Exam Percentage: 25%
  • Focus: This section covers fundamental concepts from various scientific disciplines including biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science.

Welcome to your PAX Domain 4: Science

Domain% of ExamFocus
Verbal, Reading Comprehension
19%This part tests your ability to understand and interpret written material. It typically consists of passages followed by questions that assess comprehension and critical thinking.
Verbal, Word Knowledge19%This segment evaluates your vocabulary level, specifically your understanding of word meanings, usage, and relationships.
Mathematics37%The Mathematics section assesses basic mathematical skills and understanding in areas such as algebra, geometry, conversions, graphs, and applied mathematics.
Science25%This section covers fundamental concepts from various scientific disciplines including biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science.

Additional Important Information:

  • Duration and Format: The PAX exam typically lasts around two hours. The questions are mostly multiple-choice, designed to evaluate critical thinking, mathematical ability, and understanding of natural sciences.
  • Scoring: Each section of the exam is scored separately, and the scores are combined to form a composite score. The scoring method often involves a raw score conversion to a scaled score.
  • Preparation: Adequate preparation is crucial. Candidates can use study guides, past exam papers, and preparatory courses to familiarize themselves with the format and types of questions asked in the PAX.
  • Application: Success in the PAX can significantly influence your application to nursing schools, as it is one of the factors admissions boards consider.

Nursing Schools Pre-Admission Exam (PAX) Exam Breakdown

The Nursing School Pre-Admission Exam (PAX) is a standardized entrance exam for potential nursing students which is administered by the National League for Nursing (NLN). This exam is designed to assess a candidate’s academic ability and gauge whether they have the skills necessary to succeed in nursing school.

Breakdown of the PAX Exam

  • Structure and Content:
    • The PAX exam consists of three main sections: verbal skills, mathematics, and science.
    • The verbal section tests reading comprehension and vocabulary.
    • The mathematics section includes questions on basic calculations, algebra, geometry, conversions, graphs, and applied mathematics.
    • The science section covers biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science.
  • Format:
    • The exam is typically administered in a multiple-choice format.
    • It can be taken either on paper or on a computer.
    • The duration of the exam is generally around two hours.
  • Scoring:
    • Scores are calculated based on the number of correct answers. There is no penalty for guessing.
    • The scores are then converted to a percentile ranking compared to other test takers.
  • Preparation and Resources:
    • Preparation books and practice tests are available to help students prepare for the exam.
    • Many community colleges and universities also offer prep courses.
  • Purpose:
    • The PAX exam is used by nursing schools as part of their admissions process. A high score on the PAX can enhance a student’s application to a nursing program.
  • Registration and Dates:
    • Students can register for the PAX exam through the NLN website.
    • The exam is offered at various times throughout the year.

How do I become PAX

To become certified in taking the Nursing Schools Pre-Admission Exam (PAX), you’ll need to register and prepare for the exam effectively. Here are the steps you should follow:

  • Registration: First, you must register for the PAX exam through the National League for Nursing (NLN) website. The PAX exam is offered multiple times each month and at various times to accommodate different schedules. You can register online, and once registered, you will be able to select a date and time that suits you. The exam can be taken either remotely or in person depending on your preference and availability.
  • Preparation: To prepare for the PAX exam, you should familiarize yourself with the exam format and content areas which include Verbal Ability, Mathematics, and Science. Each section is designed to test your proficiency in different skills essential for nursing school.
    • Study Materials: Utilize the NLN’s official study guides and practice exams. These resources are specifically tailored to help you understand the exam format and type of questions you will encounter.
    • Online Courses and Practice Tests: Consider enrolling in an online PAX prep course offered by providers such as Mometrix, which includes review lessons, practice questions, instructional videos, and more. Regular practice tests are crucial as they help identify your strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to focus your studies more effectively.
  • Test Day: On the day of the exam, ensure you have all necessary materials if testing in person, such as a government-issued ID and any required administrative fees if applicable. If you are taking the exam remotely, follow the instructions provided for setting up your testing environment to comply with proctoring requirements.

Our Experience Teaching PAX Candidates To Pass The Exam

At Career Employer, the development of our Nursing School Pre-Admission Exam (PAX) practice tests has been an extraordinary journey, characterized by notable successes and challenges. Inspired by the wide array of topics encompassed by the exam, we aimed to meet the diverse needs of our learners.

We have carefully tailored our approach to ensure that each student is thoroughly prepared to excel on the exam. Our commitment to delivering a holistic educational experience is evident in the meticulousness and attention to detail in our practice materials. This underscores our dedication to fostering the success of our students.

Teaching the Nursing Schools Pre-Admission Exam (PAX) certification can be a challenging yet rewarding experience from a lecturer’s perspective. This exam is crucial as it serves as a gatekeeper for prospective nursing students, testing their readiness in three key areas: verbal skills, mathematics, and science. The exam’s design is to assess the foundational knowledge necessary for success in nursing school, which aligns closely with the educational outcomes nursing educators aim to instill in their students.

Lecturer’s Teaching Approach:

  • Holistic Preparation: Lecturers focus on a holistic preparation strategy that not only covers the content of the exam but also enhances the students’ test-taking skills. This includes teaching strategies for managing time effectively during the exam, handling exam pressure, and techniques for eliminating wrong answers in multiple-choice questions.
  • Interdisciplinary Teaching: Given the diverse areas covered in the PAX exam, lecturers often use an interdisciplinary approach. For example, integrating reading comprehension exercises within the context of scientific topics or applying mathematical concepts through real-life scenarios relevant to healthcare.
  • Use of Technology: Many lecturers incorporate technology into their teaching methods, such as interactive simulations, online quizzes, and virtual lab exercises. These tools help in making abstract concepts tangible and easier to understand.
  • Feedback and Customization: Providing personalized feedback on practice tests is crucial. Lecturers often tailor their instruction to address the specific weaknesses of students, thereby making the preparation more effective and focused.

Additional Resources:

Lecturers recommend several resources that are deemed beneficial in preparing students for the PAX exam:

  • Textbooks and Review Books: Books specifically designed for PAX preparation, such as the ‘NLN PAX RN & PN Study Guide’ by the National League for Nursing, offer a comprehensive review of all exam sections.
  • Online Learning Platforms: Platforms like Khan Academy provide free resources that are excellent for reviewing basic sciences and math concepts.
  • Flashcards: Tools like Anki or Quizlet can be used to reinforce learning through spaced repetition, especially useful for memorizing scientific terms and mathematical formulas.
  • Peer Study Groups: Encouraging students to form study groups can enhance learning through discussion and collective problem solving.
  • Mentorship Programs: Some institutions offer mentorship programs where experienced students or professionals guide new test-takers through the exam preparation process.

At Career Employer, our Nursing School Pre-Admission Exam (PAX) certification practice tests are the culmination of unwavering dedication and profound expertise from a team deeply invested in preparing candidates for success. This group of experts, each with extensive experience and a deep understanding of the field, has played a pivotal role in helping over 1000 entry-level nurses achieve their Nursing School Pre-Admission Exam (PAX) certifications. Our efforts specifically target the nuanced requirements of general nursing, meticulously addressing the unique challenges faced by candidates.

Our team is composed of highly seasoned professionals, each of whom has dedicated over a decade to specializing in nursing education. This specialized experience ensures that our practice materials are developed by leading authorities in nursing, making them exceptionally effective in equipping candidates for success in their certification pursuits. Our steadfast commitment to quality ensures that users of our materials are thoroughly prepared, enabling them to approach their certification goals with the highest confidence.

Effective Study Strategies and Methods

Preparing effectively for the Nursing Schools Pre-Admission Exam (PAX) requires a combination of understanding the content, practicing strategically, and managing your test-day experience.

  • Understand the Content Areas: The PAX exam covers verbal ability, mathematics, and science. You need a good grasp of these subjects to perform well. Utilize official study guides and courses that cover these topics comprehensively​​.
  • Strategic Practice: Regular practice with sample questions and full-length practice tests is crucial. This helps you build familiarity with the exam format and improve your speed and accuracy. Online resources like Mometrix offer extensive practice questions and simulated tests. Practice tests are particularly beneficial as they highlight your weak areas, allowing you to focus your studies more effectively​.
  • Time Management: During your preparation and on the actual test day, managing your time efficiently across different sections is essential. Start with the sections where you feel most confident to build momentum before moving to tougher questions.
  • Managing Test Anxiety: Stay calm and confident. Anxiety can affect performance, so it’s important to approach the exam with a positive mindset. Techniques such as deep breathing or focusing on your strengths during the exam can help maintain a calm demeanor​.
  • Test Day Preparation: Familiarize yourself with the test procedures, arrive early, and ensure you have all required materials and identification. Know what to expect at the testing center to avoid any last-minute stress​.
  • Online Preparation Courses: Engaging in a structured prep course can be very beneficial. Mometrix, for example, offers a comprehensive PAX prep course online that includes video lessons, digital flashcards, and a wide range of practice questions. This course is structured to help you understand key concepts deeply and apply them effectively under exam conditions​.

Cost

DescriptionCostAdditional Info
On-site Testing Fee (e.g., Hopkinsville Community College)USD 52.50 + USD 25.00 proctor feeProctor fee payable on exam day​
Remote Proctoring FeeUSD 68.50Includes proctoring fee​
Hunter College Administration FeeUSD 36.00Non-refundable, payable in-person
Study Materials (NLN PAX PREP)USD 19.00 per areaOptional, per subject area

The cost of the Nursing Schools Pre-Admission Exam (PAX), used by various nursing schools for admission, can vary depending on the testing method and additional fees required by the testing center or institution. Here’s a breakdown of the costs associated with the exam:

  • Exam Fees:
    • For on-site testing, such as at Hopkinsville Community College, the fee is USD 52.50, plus a USD 25 proctor fee, payable on the day of the exam​.
    • For remote-proctored exams, the cost can be around USD 68.50, which includes the proctoring fee​.
  • Study and Preparation Costs:
    • Official study materials and preparation guides can vary in cost. The NLN offers PAX PREP at USD 19.00 per subject area and PAX PREP BONUS at USD 14.00 per subject area​​.
    • Other study materials, like the NLN Review Guide for the PAX exam, provide around 1,000 practice questions and 3 practice exams in each content area, covering verbal skills, math, and science​​.
  • Additional Fees:
    • Some institutions charge additional fees for administration or other services. For example, Hunter College requires a non-refundable USD 36.00 administration fee on the day of the in-person exam​.

Overall, the cost of taking the PAX exam ranges approximately from USD 60 to USD 100, excluding preparation and additional institutional fees. These costs are subject to change and may vary by location and specific testing requirements, so it’s advisable to check directly with the institution or the National League for Nursing for the most current information.

Reliable Study Materials and Resources

To effectively prepare for the Nursing Schools Pre-Admission Exam (PAX), there are several online resources available that provide comprehensive study materials, practice tests, and preparation tips.

  • Mometrix Test Preparation offers a wide range of study resources for the PAX exam. Their website includes over 1,100 practice questions, more than 300 digital flashcards, over 280 instructional videos, and an 80+ lesson review course covering all PAX topics. This can be a great starting point for getting familiar with the test format and identifying your strengths and weaknesses​​.
  • Pocket Prep provides a specialized exam preparation platform that includes practice questions and tests for various sections of the PAX exam. Their content covers Verbal Ability, Mathematics, and Science, helping to simulate the actual exam experience​​.
  • BoostPrep offers detailed practice tests and preparation courses specifically designed for the PAX exam. Their resources include full-length practice tests and detailed explanations to help clarify your doubts and strengthen your understanding of the exam topics​.
  • Quizlet has sets of flashcards that can be extremely helpful for quick reviews and memorizing key concepts. These flashcards cover all the main content areas of the PAX exam, including vocabulary, math, and science​.
  • Test-Guide.com provides free practice tests and resources that can be used to supplement your studying. These resources allow you to practice under test-like conditions, which can help build confidence and improve your test-taking strategies​.

Using these resources will give you a well-rounded preparation experience, making sure you are well prepared for all aspects of the PAX exam. 

Tips for Exam Day

To excel on the Nursing Schools Pre-Admission Exam (PAX), a solid preparation plan is essential. Here are some curated tips to help you prepare and perform well on exam day:

  • Understand the Exam Structure: The PAX exam consists of three sections: verbal skills, math, and science. Familiarizing yourself with the format of these sections and the types of questions asked can significantly aid your preparation​.
  • Preparation Material: Utilize the Review Guide for RN Pre-Entrance Exam as it comes highly recommended by past test-takers. This guide includes practice questions and explanations that cover all the topics on the exam​.
  • Practice Under Timed Conditions: Since each section of the PAX has strict time limits, it’s beneficial to practice under timed conditions. This will help you manage your time effectively during the actual exam.
  • Focus on Weak Areas: Identify your weaker subjects early in your preparation process. Spend additional time reinforcing these areas, whether they are certain math topics, vocabulary, or scientific concepts​.
  • Use Flashcards for Vocabulary: For the verbal section, make flashcards for new or difficult words. Regular review of these flashcards can improve your vocabulary and comprehension skills​.
  • Regular Practice and Review: Regularly doing practice questions and reviewing the answers can help consolidate your learning and increase your familiarity with the exam format. Make use of online resources and practice tests to gauge your readiness​​.
  • Rest and Relaxation: Do not underestimate the importance of rest. Ensure you get a good night’s sleep before the exam day to be mentally alert and focused.
  • Pre-Exam Logistics: Check the exam guidelines regarding items like calculators and arrive early at the test center to avoid any last-minute stress.

By integrating these strategies into your study plan, you can enhance your preparation and increase your chances of success on the PAX exam. 

Post-Exam: Next Steps

After completing the Nursing Schools Pre-Admission Exam (PAX), there are several post-exam strategies that you can consider to effectively move forward in your nursing education journey.

  • Review Your Performance: Start by reviewing the areas where you excelled and those where you struggled. Some online platforms like Medical Hero provide detailed analyses of practice test performances which can be useful in identifying your strengths and weaknesses​.
  • Research and Planning: If you’re preparing for further exams, such as the NCLEX, it’s beneficial to plan your study schedule early. Websites like Kaplan offer resources and courses designed to prepare you for these nursing licensure exams. They also provide insights into the exam formats and scoring, helping you set realistic goals for your preparation​​.
  • Utilize Online Forums and Communities: Engaging with peers in online forums can provide moral support and valuable insights. These platforms often have discussions on exam strategies, study materials, and personal experiences that can be very informative.
  • Continue Practicing: Consistent practice is key, especially with resources tailored to the PAX exam. Websites like Examity’s Test-taker Resource Center offer guides, troubleshooting tips, and further information on what to do after your exam​​.
  • Seek Feedback and Guidance: Don’t hesitate to ask for feedback from instructors or mentors who can provide personalized advice based on your performance. They can offer guidance on how to improve in specific areas or suggest resources that could be beneficial.
  • Mental and Physical Care: Finally, ensure you are taking care of your mental and physical health. The stress of exams can be taxing, and maintaining a good balance is crucial for long-term success.

By following these strategies, you can effectively navigate your path post-PAX exam and prepare for any upcoming challenges in your nursing career.

References

  1. “PAX | Mometrix University.” Mometrix University, https://www.mometrix.com/university/pax/.
  2. “National League for Nursing.” NLN, http://www.nln.org/.
  3. “Khan Academy.” Khan Academy, https://www.khanacademy.org/.
  4. “Sullivan University.” Sullivan University, https://www.sullivan.edu/.
  5. “BoostPrep.” BoostPrep, https://www.boostprep.com/.
  6. “Study.com.” Study.com, https://study.com/.
  7. “PAX Exam – Mometrix Academy.” Mometrix Academy, https://www.mometrix.com/academy/pax-exam/.
  8. “The PAX Exam: All You Should Know.” Medical Hero, https://medicalhero.com/the-pax-exam-all-you-should-know/.
  9. “NLN PAX | Hopkinsville Community College.” Hopkinsville Kentucky Community and Technical College System, https://hopkinsville.kctcs.edu/education-training/program-resources/nursing/nln-pax.aspx.
  10. “NLN Pre-Admission Nursing Examination.” Hunter College Testing Center, https://www.hunter.cuny.edu/testingcenter/nln-pre-admission-nursing-examination.
  11. “Prospective Nursing Students – Queensborough Community College.” Queensborough Community College, https://www.qcc.cuny.edu/nursing/prospective.html.
  12. “Nursing Entrance Exams – Nursing Explorer.” Nursing Explorer, https://www.nursingexplorer.com/nursing-entrance-exams/nln-pax-rn-pn.
  13. “NLN PAX Exam.” Pocket Prep, https://www.pocketprep.com/exams/nln-pax/.
  14. “NLN Practice Tests.” BoostPrep, https://www.boostprep.com/nln-practice-tests/.
  15. “NLN Practice Tests.” Test Guide, https://www.test-guide.com/nln-practice-tests.html.
  16. “7 Tips for Passing the NLN PAX.” Pocket Prep, https://www.pocketprep.com/posts/7-tips-for-passing-the-nln-pax/.
  17. “NLN PAX Pre-Admission Exam Tips.” All Nurses, https://allnurses.com/nln-pax-pre-admission-exam-tips-t608571/.
  18. “The NLN PAX.” Psychometric Success, https://psychometric-success.com/aptitude-tests/test-types/the-nln-pax.
  19. “NLN PAX RN Exam Study Guide for Nursing Students.” Registered Nurse RN, https://www.registerednursern.com/nln-pax-rn-exam-study-guide-for-nursing-students-entrance-exams-for-nursing-school-and-how-to-study/.
  20. “NLN PAX.” Reddit, https://www.reddit.com/r/StudentNurse/comments/17c36zi/nln_pax/.
  21. “PAX Practice Test.” Medical Hero, https://medicalhero.com/pax-practice-test/.
  22. “Test-Taker Resource Center.” Examity, https://www.examity.com/test-taker-resource-center/.
  23. “Question about NLN PAX Exam.” Reddit, https://www.reddit.com/r/StudentNurse/comments/10mo62l/question_about_nln_pax_exam/.
  24. YouTube video on NLN PAX Exam. YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWJaKW31gGU.
  25. Another YouTube video on NLN PAX Exam. YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aW9l8TulQ1k.

All Posts

career employers editorial process

Here at career employer, we focus a lot on providing factually accurate information that is always up to date. We strive to provide correct information using strict editorial processes, article editing and fact checking for all of the information found on our website. We only utilize trustworthy and relevant resources. To find out more, make sure to read our full editorial process page here.

Leave a Comment

How Career Employer Collects Its Data

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Nulla quam velit, vulputate eu pharetra nec, mattis ac neque. Duis vulputate commodo lectus, ac blandit elit tincidunt id.