NCSBN
The National Council of State Boards of Nursing. Creator of the NCLEX
Definition
The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) is a U.S. nonprofit organization representing boards of nursing from all 50 states, 4 U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia. It develops and administers the NCLEX licensure examinations.
Key Functions
- Creates NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN test plans (updated every 3 years)
- Develops the Clinical Judgment Measurement Model (CJMM)
- Administers the exams through Pearson VUE
- Sets passing standards
- Supports the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)
2023 to 2026 Test Plan Highlights
NGN items introduced April 2023; emphasis on clinical judgment. 2026 test plan includes person-centered language, health equity, unbiased care.
NCLEX Relevance
NCSBN is the authority for exam content and standards.