This qualitative research study explored the perceptions of African American baccalaureate nursing students as they prepared for and completed their NCLEX-RN© examination experiences. Thirteen study participants were included in this inquiry. Four informants participated in the one-time focus group session and the remaining nine informants participated in the individual interviews. Two dominant themes were identified through the informants’ perspectives: (1) Professional entry into practice, and (2) Achievement of personal goals. Five supporting themes were also identified and included: (1) The preparation process for the NCLEX-RN© examination; (2) Mentoring and the importance of minority faculty presence; (3) Family support throughout nursing education and the NCLEX-RN© experience; (4) Spirituality; and (5) Race and persistence. The informants identified the NCLEX-RN© examination experience as a requirement necessary to gain entry to professional practice and viewed it as a means to an end. Their responses suggested that the NCLEX-RN© examination was an individualized experience. Preparation for the NCLEX-RN© examination required both individualized and customized approaches to address the needs of the test candidates.