How the plan sets your priorities
Your Score report shows how you did in each test plan category. Use it to rate each one below; the planner doesn't need exact scores. So the planner asks you instead: the test plan categories you mark as hard start your plan, mixed ones are strengthened, and confident ones get lighter review. Your answers are a self-assessment, not an official result.
Each test plan category starts from its share of the exam in the official outline, multiplied by its priority: 3× to start, 2× to strengthen, 1.5× if you leave it blank, and 1× to maintain. A quarter of your time is mixed practice across all test plan categories. This is Passy’s planning method; it doesn’t estimate a score or a chance of passing.
Retake rules for the PCCN
Up to 4 attempts at the same exam in a rolling 12-month period, with a discounted retest fee ($185 member / $290 nonmember); no waiting period between attempts is stated.
- maxAttempts is per rolling 12-month period; after 12 months a new honor statement is required.
- Apply for a retest online, by paper application (select 'retest'), or by phone.
- The FAQ says the discounted retest fee is available until the exam is passed.
- Certification Exam Policy Handbook (September 2026), Retake Policy; PCCN Exam Handbook – Direct Care (July 2026), fees (AACN Certification Corporation)
Checked against official sources on October 24, 2026.
Next steps
Check your weakest test plan category with the free PCCN practice set, or use the PCCN study planner for a first attempt.
Passy is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or approved by the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) or AACN Certification Corporation. PCCN® is a registered service mark of AACN Certification Corporation, used here only to identify the exam. Passy practice questions are original study material and contain no AACN exam items, sample questions, or practice-exam questions.