95% Confidence Interval Rule

Definition

The 95% Confidence Interval Rule is the primary NCLEX stopping rule. The CAT ends the exam when it is 95% certain that the candidate's ability is clearly above or below the passing standard.

Practical Impact

• May stop as early as 70 (RN) or 85 (PN) items if ability is clearly above/below standard
• Can extend up to 135 to 150 items if performance hovers near the standard

Candidate Takeaways

Short exams can mean clear pass OR clear fail. Long exams indicate performance near the passing standard. Focus on each item. Don't try to predict outcome during the test.

NCLEX Relevance

Explains variable exam lengths.