Logit
The unit of NCLEX difficulty and ability measurement
Definition
A logit (log-odds unit) is the psychometric unit of measurement used by the NCLEX for item difficulty and candidate ability. The NCLEX passing standard is expressed in logits.
2026 Passing Standards
- NCLEX-RN: 0.00 logits
- NCLEX-PN: -0.18 logits
How Logits Work
The algorithm estimates the candidate's ability level in logits, comparing against the passing standard. Items are ordered by their own logit difficulty values.
Practical Impact
Candidates don't see their logit score during the exam. The pass/fail decision is made when the candidate's ability is clearly above or below the passing logit with 95% confidence.
NCLEX Relevance
Background knowledge. Not typically tested directly but explains the scoring mechanism.