About NCLEX Key
NCLEX Key is an NCLEX-RN preparation platform for nursing students. It includes 3,500+ practice questions, from multiple choice and SATA to all six Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) item types, a full adaptive CAT simulator, and a detailed rationale on every question — plus a growing library of free study guides anyone can read, no account required.
The goal is simple: rigorous, current, NGN-aligned practice that helps students walk into the exam ready. You can start free, with no credit card required.
NCLEX Key at a glance
| What it is | Online NCLEX-RN exam prep (RN only; NCLEX-PN is not offered) |
|---|---|
| Company | NCLEX Key LLC, founded by Douglas Carollo, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC |
| Practice questions | 3,500+ NCLEX-style questions, with a rationale on every question |
| Next Generation (NGN) | All 6 NGN item types, plus 30 unfolding case studies |
| Readiness check | Adaptive CAT simulator (85 to 150 questions) that reports whether you are above or below the passing standard |
| Progress tracking | Your performance in the 8 NCLEX client-needs categories, with Focus Areas for your weakest ones |
| Prices | $59 for 30 days, $99 for 90 days, $149 for 180 days; one-time payment, or 4 interest-free payments with Klarna or Afterpay (subject to approval) |
| Pass Guarantee | A full refund for first-time NCLEX-RN candidates who meet the conditions, on every plan. Read the terms. |
| Free option | 25 questions and 2 case studies with no credit card, plus free study guides and practice question pages with no account |
| Where it works | In any modern web browser on a computer, tablet or phone |
| Contact | support@nclexkey.com |
| Affiliation | Independent. NCLEX Key is not affiliated with the NCSBN or Pearson VUE. NCLEX is a registered trademark of the NCSBN. |
Meet the founder
NCLEX Key was founded by Douglas Carollo, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. He earned his BSN and MSN from the University of Miami and has clinical experience in oncology. He built NCLEX Key to give nursing students rigorous, current practice with clear, detailed rationales.
How we keep our content accurate
Every study guide on NCLEX Key is reviewed for clinical accuracy and follows the current NCLEX-RN test plan. We update content as guidelines change.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NCLEX Key?
NCLEX Key is an online NCLEX-RN prep platform with 3,500+ NCLEX-style practice questions, all 6 Next Generation (NGN) item types, 30 unfolding case studies, an adaptive CAT simulator and a rationale on every question. Plans cost $59 for 30 days, $99 for 90 days or $149 for 180 days.
Who created NCLEX Key?
NCLEX Key was founded by Douglas Carollo, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner, and is run by NCLEX Key LLC.
Does NCLEX Key have a pass guarantee?
Yes. Every plan includes a Pass Guarantee. First-time NCLEX-RN candidates who complete at least 500 practice questions and one full CAT simulation with the result “Above the passing standard” before their exam, test during an active plan, and do not pass can get a full refund by sending their Candidate Performance Report within 30 days.
Can I try NCLEX Key for free?
Yes. A free account includes 25 NCLEX-style questions and 2 unfolding case studies, with no credit card. The study guides and practice question pages on the site are free to read without an account.
Is NCLEX Key affiliated with the NCSBN?
No. NCLEX Key is independent and is not affiliated with the NCSBN or Pearson VUE. NCLEX is a registered trademark of the NCSBN.