

<!--XBRL document created with Toppan Merrill Bridge  9.3.0.107 -->
<!--Based on XBRL 2.1-->
<!--Created on: 8/12/2019 2:50:47 PM-->
<!--Modified on: 8/12/2019 2:50:47 PM-->
<link:linkbase xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" xsi:schemaLocation="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase http://www.xbrl.org/2003/xbrl-linkbase-2003-12-31.xsd" xmlns:link="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" xmlns:xbrli="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/instance" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#StatementCondensedBalanceSheets" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/StatementCondensedBalanceSheets" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#StatementCondensedBalanceSheetsParenthetical" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/StatementCondensedBalanceSheetsParenthetical" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#StatementCondensedStatementsOfOperations" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/StatementCondensedStatementsOfOperations" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#StatementCondensedStatementsOfPreferredStockAndStockholdersDeficit" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/StatementCondensedStatementsOfPreferredStockAndStockholdersDeficit" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#StatementCondensedStatementsOfPreferredStockAndStockholdersDeficitParenthetical" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/StatementCondensedStatementsOfPreferredStockAndStockholdersDeficitParenthetical" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#StatementCondensedStatementsOfCashFlows" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/StatementCondensedStatementsOfCashFlows" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureNatureOfBusiness" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureNatureOfBusiness" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPolicies" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPolicies" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureFairValueOfFinancialInstruments" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureFairValueOfFinancialInstruments" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentNet" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentNet" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureAgreementWithEliLillyAndCompany" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureAgreementWithEliLillyAndCompany" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingencies" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingencies" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureTermLoan" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureTermLoan" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensation" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensation" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureIncomeTaxes" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxes" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureSubsequentEvents" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureSubsequentEvents" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesPolicies" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesPolicies" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTables" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureFairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsTables" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureFairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentNetTables" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentNetTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureAgreementWithEliLillyAndCompanyTables" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureAgreementWithEliLillyAndCompanyTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesTables" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureTermLoanTables" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureTermLoanTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationTables" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureNatureOfBusinessDetails" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureNatureOfBusinessDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesRestrictedCashDetails" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesRestrictedCashDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureFairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsDetails" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureFairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentNetDetails" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentNetDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureAgreementWithEliLillyAndCompanyOtherDetails" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureAgreementWithEliLillyAndCompanyOtherDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureAgreementWithEliLillyAndCompanyDeferredRevenueIncludedInBalanceSheetsDetails" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureAgreementWithEliLillyAndCompanyDeferredRevenueIncludedInBalanceSheetsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesOtherDetails" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesOtherDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesFutureMinimumPaymentsDetails" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesFutureMinimumPaymentsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureTermLoanOtherDetails" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureTermLoanOtherDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureTermLoanMaturitiesDetails" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureTermLoanMaturitiesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationStockOptionsDetails" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationStockOptionsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationStockBasedCompensationExpenseDetails" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationStockBasedCompensationExpenseDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureIncomeTaxesDetails" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#DisclosureSubsequentEventsDetails" roleURI="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureSubsequentEventsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00090 - Document - Document and Entity Information" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:label="nxtc_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityRegistrantName" xlink:label="dei_EntityRegistrantName_637012182466980750" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="nxtc_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityRegistrantName_637012182466980750" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityCentralIndexKey" xlink:label="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey_637012182467000728" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="nxtc_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey_637012182467000728" order="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentType" xlink:label="dei_DocumentType_637012182467000728" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="nxtc_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_DocumentType_637012182467000728" order="3" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate" xlink:label="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate_637012182467000728" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="nxtc_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate_637012182467000728" order="4" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_AmendmentFlag" xlink:label="dei_AmendmentFlag_637012182467000728" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="nxtc_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_AmendmentFlag_637012182467000728" order="5" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate" xlink:label="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate_637012182467000728" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="nxtc_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate_637012182467000728" order="6" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus" xlink:label="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus_637012182467000728" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="nxtc_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus_637012182467000728" order="7" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityFilerCategory" xlink:label="dei_EntityFilerCategory_637012182467000728" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="nxtc_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityFilerCategory_637012182467000728" order="8" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus_637012182467000728" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="nxtc_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus_637012182467000728" order="9" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus_637012182467000728" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="nxtc_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus_637012182467000728" order="10" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntitySmallBusiness" xlink:label="dei_EntitySmallBusiness_637012182467000728" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="nxtc_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntitySmallBusiness_637012182467000728" order="11" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany" xlink:label="dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany_637012182467000728" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="nxtc_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany_637012182467000728" order="12" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityExTransitionPeriod" xlink:label="dei_EntityExTransitionPeriod_637012182467000728" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="nxtc_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityExTransitionPeriod_637012182467000728" order="13" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityShellCompany" xlink:label="dei_EntityShellCompany_637012182467000728" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="nxtc_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityShellCompany_637012182467000728" order="14" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding_637012182467010141" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="nxtc_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding_637012182467010141" order="15" use="optional" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/StatementCondensedBalanceSheets" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00100 - Statement - CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable_637012182467010141" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable_637012182467010141" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_637012182467010141" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637012182467010141" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_637012182467010141" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_637012182467010141" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_637012182467010141" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_637012182467010141" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember_637012182467020677" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_637012182467010141" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember_637012182467020677" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember_637012182467020677" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_637012182467010141" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember_637012182467020677" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467020677" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637012182467010141" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467020677" order="2" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637012182467020677" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467020677" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637012182467020677" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637012182467020677" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637012182467020677" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637012182467020677" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue_637012182467020677" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637012182467020677" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue_637012182467020677" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedCashCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedCashCurrent_637012182467020677" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637012182467020677" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedCashCurrent_637012182467020677" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssetsCurrent_637012182467020677" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637012182467020677" xlink:to="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssetsCurrent_637012182467020677" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent_637012182467020677" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637012182467020677" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent_637012182467020677" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet_637012182467020677" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637012182467020677" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet_637012182467020677" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent_637012182467030185" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637012182467020677" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent_637012182467030185" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Assets" xlink:label="us-gaap_Assets_637012182467030185" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637012182467020677" xlink:to="us-gaap_Assets_637012182467030185" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637012182467030185" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467020677" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637012182467030185" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637012182467030185" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637012182467030185" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637012182467030185" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent_637012182467030185" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637012182467030185" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent_637012182467030185" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent_637012182467030185" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637012182467030185" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent_637012182467030185" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredRentCreditCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredRentCreditCurrent_637012182467030185" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637012182467030185" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredRentCreditCurrent_637012182467030185" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent_637012182467030185" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637012182467030185" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent_637012182467030185" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueCurrent" xlink:label="nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueCurrent_637012182467030185" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637012182467030185" xlink:to="nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueCurrent_637012182467030185" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent_637012182467030185" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637012182467030185" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent_637012182467030185" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredRentCreditNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredRentCreditNoncurrent_637012182467030185" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637012182467030185" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredRentCreditNoncurrent_637012182467030185" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent_637012182467030185" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637012182467030185" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent_637012182467030185" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueNoncurrent" xlink:label="nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueNoncurrent_637012182467030185" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637012182467030185" xlink:to="nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueNoncurrent_637012182467030185" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Liabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_Liabilities_637012182467030185" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637012182467030185" xlink:to="us-gaap_Liabilities_637012182467030185" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies_637012182467030185" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637012182467030185" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies_637012182467030185" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_PreferredStockAbstract" xlink:label="nxtc_PreferredStockAbstract_637012182467030185" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637012182467030185" xlink:to="nxtc_PreferredStockAbstract_637012182467030185" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TemporaryEquityCarryingAmountAttributableToParent" xlink:label="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityCarryingAmountAttributableToParent_637012182467030185" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="nxtc_PreferredStockAbstract_637012182467030185" xlink:to="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityCarryingAmountAttributableToParent_637012182467030185" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637012182467040630" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637012182467030185" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637012182467040630" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockValue_637012182467040630" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637012182467040630" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockValue_637012182467040630" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockValue_637012182467040630" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637012182467040630" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockValue_637012182467040630" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapital" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapital_637012182467040630" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637012182467040630" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapital_637012182467040630" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit_637012182467040630" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637012182467040630" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit_637012182467040630" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_637012182467040630" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637012182467040630" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_637012182467040630" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity_637012182467040630" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637012182467040630" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity_637012182467040630" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/StatementCondensedBalanceSheetsParenthetical" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00105 - Statement - CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS - (Parenthetical)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable_637012182467040630" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable_637012182467040630" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_637012182467040630" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637012182467040630" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_637012182467040630" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_637012182467040630" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_637012182467040630" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_637012182467040630" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember_637012182467040630" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_637012182467040630" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember_637012182467040630" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember_637012182467040630" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_637012182467040630" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember_637012182467040630" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467040630" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637012182467040630" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467040630" order="2" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_637012182467050015" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467040630" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_637012182467050015" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized_637012182467050015" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467040630" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized_637012182467050015" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued_637012182467050015" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467040630" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued_637012182467050015" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding_637012182467050015" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467040630" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding_637012182467050015" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_637012182467050015" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467040630" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_637012182467050015" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized_637012182467050015" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467040630" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized_637012182467050015" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued_637012182467050015" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467040630" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued_637012182467050015" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding_637012182467050015" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467040630" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding_637012182467050015" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/StatementCondensedStatementsOfOperations" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00200 - Statement - CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_637012182467050015" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_637012182467050015" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax_637012182467050015" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_637012182467050015" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax_637012182467050015" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TypeOfRevenueExtensibleList" xlink:label="us-gaap_TypeOfRevenueExtensibleList_637012182467050015" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_637012182467050015" xlink:to="us-gaap_TypeOfRevenueExtensibleList_637012182467050015" order="2" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_637012182467050015" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_637012182467050015" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense_637012182467050015" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_637012182467050015" xlink:to="us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense_637012182467050015" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpense_637012182467050015" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_637012182467050015" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpense_637012182467050015" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingExpenses" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingExpenses_637012182467050015" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_637012182467050015" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingExpenses_637012182467050015" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss_637012182467050015" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss_637012182467050015" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="7" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense_637012182467050015" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense_637012182467050015" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_637012182467050015" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_637012182467050015" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="6" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAndDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAndDiluted_637012182467050015" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAndDiluted_637012182467050015" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfShareOutstandingBasicAndDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfShareOutstandingBasicAndDiluted_637012182467050015" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfShareOutstandingBasicAndDiluted_637012182467050015" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/StatementCondensedStatementsOfPreferredStockAndStockholdersDeficit" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00300 - Statement - CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF PREFERRED STOCK AND STOCKHOLDERS&#x2019; DEFICIT" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementOfStockholdersEquityAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable_637012182467050015" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable_637012182467050015" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_637012182467050015" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637012182467050015" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_637012182467050015" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockMember_637012182467060019" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_637012182467050015" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockMember_637012182467060019" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockMember_637012182467060019" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_637012182467050015" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockMember_637012182467060019" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember_637012182467060019" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_637012182467050015" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember_637012182467060019" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember_637012182467060019" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_637012182467050015" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember_637012182467060019" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_637012182467060019" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_637012182467050015" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_637012182467060019" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_637012182467060019" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637012182467050015" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_637012182467060019" order="2" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember_637012182467060019" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_637012182467060019" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember_637012182467060019" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_Series3PreferredStockMember" xlink:label="nxtc_Series3PreferredStockMember_637012182467060019" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_637012182467060019" xlink:to="nxtc_Series3PreferredStockMember_637012182467060019" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember_637012182467060019" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_637012182467060019" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesBPreferredStockMember_637012182467060019" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_637012182467060019" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_637012182467060019" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_637012182467060019" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467060019" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637012182467050015" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467060019" order="3" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_637012182467060019" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467060019" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_637012182467060019" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_637012182467060019" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_637012182467060019" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_637012182467060019" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding_637012182467060019" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_637012182467060019" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding_637012182467060019" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="6" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TemporaryEquityCarryingAmountAttributableToParent" xlink:label="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityCarryingAmountAttributableToParent_637012182467060019" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_637012182467060019" xlink:to="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityCarryingAmountAttributableToParent_637012182467060019" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="7" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesOutstanding_637012182467060019" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_637012182467060019" xlink:to="us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesOutstanding_637012182467060019" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="7" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueInitialPublicOffering" xlink:label="nxtc_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueInitialPublicOffering_637012182467060019" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_637012182467060019" xlink:to="nxtc_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueInitialPublicOffering_637012182467060019" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesInitialPublicOffering" xlink:label="nxtc_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesInitialPublicOffering_637012182467060019" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="nxtc_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueInitialPublicOffering_637012182467060019" xlink:to="nxtc_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesInitialPublicOffering_637012182467060019" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfUnits" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfUnits_637012182467060019" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_637012182467060019" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfUnits_637012182467060019" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfUnits" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfUnits_637012182467060019" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfUnits_637012182467060019" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfUnits_637012182467060019" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue_637012182467060019" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_637012182467060019" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue_637012182467060019" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues_637012182467069981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_637012182467060019" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues_637012182467069981" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues_637012182467069981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues_637012182467069981" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues_637012182467069981" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_637012182467069981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_637012182467060019" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_637012182467069981" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_637012182467069981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_637012182467060019" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_637012182467069981" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding_637012182467069981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_637012182467060019" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding_637012182467069981" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="6" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TemporaryEquityCarryingAmountAttributableToParent" xlink:label="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityCarryingAmountAttributableToParent_637012182467069981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_637012182467060019" xlink:to="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityCarryingAmountAttributableToParent_637012182467069981" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="7" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesOutstanding_637012182467069981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_637012182467060019" xlink:to="us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesOutstanding_637012182467069981" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="7" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/StatementCondensedStatementsOfPreferredStockAndStockholdersDeficitParenthetical" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00305 - Statement - CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF PREFERRED STOCK AND STOCKHOLDERS&#x2019; DEFICIT (Parenthetical)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementOfStockholdersEquityAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable_637012182467069981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable_637012182467069981" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_637012182467069981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637012182467069981" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_637012182467069981" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_637012182467069981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_637012182467069981" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_637012182467069981" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_Series3PreferredStockMember" xlink:label="nxtc_Series3PreferredStockMember_637012182467069981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_637012182467069981" xlink:to="nxtc_Series3PreferredStockMember_637012182467069981" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467069981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637012182467069981" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467069981" order="2" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalStockIssuedIssuanceCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalStockIssuedIssuanceCosts_637012182467069981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467069981" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalStockIssuedIssuanceCosts_637012182467069981" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_637012182467069981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467069981" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_637012182467069981" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/StatementCondensedStatementsOfCashFlows" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00400 - Statement - CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637012182467069981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637012182467069981" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProfitLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProfitLoss_637012182467069981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637012182467069981" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProfitLoss_637012182467069981" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637012182467080512" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637012182467069981" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637012182467080512" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization_637012182467080512" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637012182467080512" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization_637012182467080512" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="6" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation_637012182467080512" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637012182467080512" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation_637012182467080512" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_637012182467080512" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637012182467069981" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_637012182467080512" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPrepaidDeferredExpenseAndOtherAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPrepaidDeferredExpenseAndOtherAssets_637012182467080512" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_637012182467080512" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPrepaidDeferredExpenseAndOtherAssets_637012182467080512" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayable" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayable_637012182467080512" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_637012182467080512" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayable_637012182467080512" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccruedLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccruedLiabilities_637012182467080512" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_637012182467080512" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccruedLiabilities_637012182467080512" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_IncreaseDecreaseInDeferredRevenueFromRelatedParty" xlink:label="nxtc_IncreaseDecreaseInDeferredRevenueFromRelatedParty_637012182467080512" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_637012182467080512" xlink:to="nxtc_IncreaseDecreaseInDeferredRevenueFromRelatedParty_637012182467080512" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities_637012182467080512" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_637012182467080512" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities_637012182467080512" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract_637012182467080512" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract_637012182467080512" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment_637012182467080512" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract_637012182467080512" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment_637012182467080512" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities_637012182467080512" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract_637012182467080512" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities_637012182467080512" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_637012182467080512" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_637012182467080512" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceInitialPublicOffering" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceInitialPublicOffering_637012182467080512" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_637012182467080512" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceInitialPublicOffering_637012182467080512" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfPreferredStockAndPreferenceStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfPreferredStockAndPreferenceStock_637012182467080512" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_637012182467080512" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfPreferredStockAndPreferenceStock_637012182467080512" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock_637012182467080512" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_637012182467080512" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock_637012182467080512" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfDebt_637012182467080512" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_637012182467080512" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfDebt_637012182467080512" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfDebt_637012182467080512" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_637012182467080512" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfDebt_637012182467080512" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities_637012182467080512" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_637012182467080512" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities_637012182467080512" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecreaseIncludingExchangeRateEffect" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecreaseIncludingExchangeRateEffect_637012182467080512" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecreaseIncludingExchangeRateEffect_637012182467080512" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_637012182467080512" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_637012182467080512" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="7" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_637012182467089923" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_637012182467089923" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="7" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract_637012182467089923" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract_637012182467089923" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestPaidNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestPaidNet_637012182467089923" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract_637012182467089923" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestPaidNet_637012182467089923" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NoncashInvestingAndFinancingItemsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NoncashInvestingAndFinancingItemsAbstract_637012182467089923" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NoncashInvestingAndFinancingItemsAbstract_637012182467089923" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid_637012182467089923" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoncashInvestingAndFinancingItemsAbstract_637012182467089923" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid_637012182467089923" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtIssuanceCostsIncurredDuringNoncashOrPartialNoncashTransaction" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtIssuanceCostsIncurredDuringNoncashOrPartialNoncashTransaction_637012182467089923" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoncashInvestingAndFinancingItemsAbstract_637012182467089923" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtIssuanceCostsIncurredDuringNoncashOrPartialNoncashTransaction_637012182467089923" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_NoncashOrPartNoncashConversionOfConvertiblePreferredStockIntoCommonStock" xlink:label="nxtc_NoncashOrPartNoncashConversionOfConvertiblePreferredStockIntoCommonStock_637012182467089923" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoncashInvestingAndFinancingItemsAbstract_637012182467089923" xlink:to="nxtc_NoncashOrPartNoncashConversionOfConvertiblePreferredStockIntoCommonStock_637012182467089923" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureNatureOfBusiness" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="10101 - Disclosure - Nature of the Business" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock_637012182467110414" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock_637012182467110414" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="5" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPolicies" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="10201 - Disclosure - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_SignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlock_637012182467110414" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlock_637012182467110414" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureFairValueOfFinancialInstruments" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="10301 - Disclosure - Fair Value of Financial Instruments" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresTextBlock_637012182467119828" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresTextBlock_637012182467119828" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentNet" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="10401 - Disclosure - Property and Equipment, Net" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentDisclosureTextBlock_637012182467119828" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentDisclosureTextBlock_637012182467119828" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureAgreementWithEliLillyAndCompany" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="10501 - Disclosure - Agreement with Eli Lilly and Company" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CollaborativeArrangementDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_CollaborativeArrangementDisclosureTextBlock_637012182467119828" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CollaborativeArrangementDisclosureTextBlock_637012182467119828" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingencies" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="10601 - Disclosure - Commitments and Contingencies" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock_637012182467119828" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock_637012182467119828" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureTermLoan" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="10701 - Disclosure - Term Loan" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureTextBlock_637012182467119828" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureTextBlock_637012182467119828" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensation" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="10801 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsShareBasedPaymentsTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsShareBasedPaymentsTextBlock_637012182467119828" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsShareBasedPaymentsTextBlock_637012182467119828" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxes" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="10901 - Disclosure - Income Taxes" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock_637012182467119828" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock_637012182467119828" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureSubsequentEvents" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="11001 - Disclosure - Subsequent Events" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventsTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsTextBlock_637012182467119828" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsTextBlock_637012182467119828" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesPolicies" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="20202 - Disclosure - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BasisOfAccountingPolicyPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_BasisOfAccountingPolicyPolicyTextBlock_637012182467129798" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BasisOfAccountingPolicyPolicyTextBlock_637012182467129798" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UseOfEstimates" xlink:label="us-gaap_UseOfEstimates_637012182467129798" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_UseOfEstimates_637012182467129798" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndCashEquivalentsPolicy" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndCashEquivalentsPolicy_637012182467129798" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndCashEquivalentsPolicy_637012182467129798" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerPolicyTextBlock_637012182467129798" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerPolicyTextBlock_637012182467129798" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_DescriptionOfNewAccountingPronouncementsNotYetAdoptedPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="nxtc_DescriptionOfNewAccountingPronouncementsNotYetAdoptedPolicyTextBlock_637012182467129798" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="nxtc_DescriptionOfNewAccountingPronouncementsNotYetAdoptedPolicyTextBlock_637012182467129798" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="30203 - Disclosure - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfCashCashEquivalentsAndShortTermInvestmentsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCashCashEquivalentsAndShortTermInvestmentsTableTextBlock_637012182467129798" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCashCashEquivalentsAndShortTermInvestmentsTableTextBlock_637012182467129798" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureFairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="30303 - Disclosure - Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTextBlock_637012182467129798" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTextBlock_637012182467129798" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentNetTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="30403 - Disclosure - Property and Equipment, Net (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTextBlock_637012182467129798" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTextBlock_637012182467129798" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureAgreementWithEliLillyAndCompanyTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="30503 - Disclosure - Agreement with Eli Lilly and Company (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_ScheduleOfDeferredRevenueFromRelatedPartyTableTextBlock" xlink:label="nxtc_ScheduleOfDeferredRevenueFromRelatedPartyTableTextBlock_637012182467129798" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="nxtc_ScheduleOfDeferredRevenueFromRelatedPartyTableTextBlock_637012182467129798" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="30603 - Disclosure - Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfFutureMinimumRentalPaymentsForOperatingLeasesTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFutureMinimumRentalPaymentsForOperatingLeasesTableTextBlock_637012182467139771" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFutureMinimumRentalPaymentsForOperatingLeasesTableTextBlock_637012182467139771" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureTermLoanTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="30703 - Disclosure - Term Loan (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfMaturitiesOfLongTermDebtTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfMaturitiesOfLongTermDebtTableTextBlock_637012182467139771" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfMaturitiesOfLongTermDebtTableTextBlock_637012182467139771" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="30803 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationStockOptionsActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationStockOptionsActivityTableTextBlock_637012182467139771" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationStockOptionsActivityTableTextBlock_637012182467139771" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfEmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationAllocationOfRecognizedPeriodCostsTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationAllocationOfRecognizedPeriodCostsTextBlock_637012182467139771" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationAllocationOfRecognizedPeriodCostsTextBlock_637012182467139771" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureNatureOfBusinessDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40101 - Disclosure - Nature of the Business - (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable_637012182467139771" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable_637012182467139771" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsidiarySaleOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsidiarySaleOfStockAxis_637012182467139771" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable_637012182467139771" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsidiarySaleOfStockAxis_637012182467139771" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SaleOfStockNameOfTransactionDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SaleOfStockNameOfTransactionDomain_637012182467139771" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsidiarySaleOfStockAxis_637012182467139771" xlink:to="us-gaap_SaleOfStockNameOfTransactionDomain_637012182467139771" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IPOMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_IPOMember_637012182467139771" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SaleOfStockNameOfTransactionDomain_637012182467139771" xlink:to="us-gaap_IPOMember_637012182467139771" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_637012182467139771" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable_637012182467139771" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_637012182467139771" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityNoteStockSplitConversionRatio1" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityNoteStockSplitConversionRatio1_637012182467139771" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_637012182467139771" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityNoteStockSplitConversionRatio1_637012182467139771" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues_637012182467139771" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_637012182467139771" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues_637012182467139771" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharePrice_637012182467139771" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_637012182467139771" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharePrice_637012182467139771" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceInitialPublicOffering" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceInitialPublicOffering_637012182467139771" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_637012182467139771" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceInitialPublicOffering_637012182467139771" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_PaymentsOfUnderwritingDiscountsAndCommissions" xlink:label="nxtc_PaymentsOfUnderwritingDiscountsAndCommissions_637012182467139771" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_637012182467139771" xlink:to="nxtc_PaymentsOfUnderwritingDiscountsAndCommissions_637012182467139771" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsOfStockIssuanceCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsOfStockIssuanceCosts_637012182467169710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_637012182467139771" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsOfStockIssuanceCosts_637012182467169710" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding_637012182467169710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_637012182467139771" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding_637012182467169710" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding_637012182467169710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_637012182467139771" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding_637012182467169710" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized_637012182467169710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_637012182467139771" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized_637012182467169710" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_637012182467169710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_637012182467139771" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_637012182467169710" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized_637012182467169710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_637012182467139771" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized_637012182467169710" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_637012182467169710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_637012182467139771" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_637012182467169710" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesRestrictedCashDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40201 - Disclosure - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Restricted Cash (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedCashAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedCashAbstract_637012182467169710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedCashAbstract_637012182467169710" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_RequiredReserveRestrictedCashCurrent" xlink:label="nxtc_RequiredReserveRestrictedCashCurrent_637012182467169710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RestrictedCashAbstract_637012182467169710" xlink:to="nxtc_RequiredReserveRestrictedCashCurrent_637012182467169710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsAbstract_637012182467169710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsAbstract_637012182467169710" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue_637012182467169710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsAbstract_637012182467169710" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue_637012182467169710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_RestrictedCashAndOtherAssetsCurrent" xlink:label="nxtc_RestrictedCashAndOtherAssetsCurrent_637012182467169710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsAbstract_637012182467169710" xlink:to="nxtc_RestrictedCashAndOtherAssetsCurrent_637012182467169710" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedCashCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedCashCurrent_637012182467169710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsAbstract_637012182467169710" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedCashCurrent_637012182467169710" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_637012182467169710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsAbstract_637012182467169710" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_637012182467169710" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent_637012182467169710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsAbstract_637012182467169710" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent_637012182467169710" order="5" use="optional" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureFairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40301 - Disclosure - Fair Value of Financial Instruments - (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable_637012182467169710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable_637012182467169710" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis_637012182467180243" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable_637012182467169710" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis_637012182467180243" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_637012182467180243" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis_637012182467180243" xlink:to="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_637012182467180243" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember_637012182467180243" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_637012182467180243" xlink:to="us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember_637012182467180243" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EstimateOfFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EstimateOfFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_637012182467180243" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_637012182467180243" xlink:to="us-gaap_EstimateOfFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_637012182467180243" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis_637012182467180243" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable_637012182467169710" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis_637012182467180243" order="2" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_637012182467180243" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis_637012182467180243" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_637012182467180243" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member_637012182467180243" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_637012182467180243" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member_637012182467180243" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems_637012182467180243" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable_637012182467169710" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems_637012182467180243" order="3" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentsFinancialAssetsBalanceSheetGroupingsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentsFinancialAssetsBalanceSheetGroupingsAbstract_637012182467180243" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems_637012182467180243" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentsFinancialAssetsBalanceSheetGroupingsAbstract_637012182467180243" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsFairValueDisclosure" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsFairValueDisclosure_637012182467180243" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentsFinancialAssetsBalanceSheetGroupingsAbstract_637012182467180243" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsFairValueDisclosure_637012182467180243" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueAssetsLevel1ToLevel2TransfersAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsLevel1ToLevel2TransfersAmount_637012182467180243" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentsFinancialAssetsBalanceSheetGroupingsAbstract_637012182467180243" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsLevel1ToLevel2TransfersAmount_637012182467180243" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueAssetsLevel2ToLevel1TransfersAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsLevel2ToLevel1TransfersAmount_637012182467180243" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentsFinancialAssetsBalanceSheetGroupingsAbstract_637012182467180243" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsLevel2ToLevel1TransfersAmount_637012182467180243" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentNetDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40401 - Disclosure - Property and Equipment, Net - (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable_637012182467180243" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable_637012182467180243" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_637012182467180243" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable_637012182467180243" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_637012182467180243" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_637012182467180243" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_637012182467180243" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_637012182467180243" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_ResearchEquipmentMember" xlink:label="nxtc_ResearchEquipmentMember_637012182467180243" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_637012182467180243" xlink:to="nxtc_ResearchEquipmentMember_637012182467180243" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LeaseholdImprovementsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeaseholdImprovementsMember_637012182467180243" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_637012182467180243" xlink:to="us-gaap_LeaseholdImprovementsMember_637012182467180243" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ComputerEquipmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ComputerEquipmentMember_637012182467180243" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_637012182467180243" xlink:to="us-gaap_ComputerEquipmentMember_637012182467180243" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember_637012182467180243" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_637012182467180243" xlink:to="us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember_637012182467180243" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConstructionInProgressMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConstructionInProgressMember_637012182467180243" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_637012182467180243" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConstructionInProgressMember_637012182467180243" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems_637012182467180243" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable_637012182467180243" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems_637012182467180243" order="2" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNetAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNetAbstract_637012182467189658" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems_637012182467180243" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNetAbstract_637012182467189658" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross_637012182467189658" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNetAbstract_637012182467189658" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross_637012182467189658" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment_637012182467189658" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNetAbstract_637012182467189658" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment_637012182467189658" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="6" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet_637012182467189658" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNetAbstract_637012182467189658" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet_637012182467189658" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="6" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization_637012182467189658" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNetAbstract_637012182467189658" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization_637012182467189658" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="6" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureAgreementWithEliLillyAndCompanyOtherDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40501 - Disclosure - Agreement with Eli Lilly and Company - Other (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfCollaborativeArrangementsAndNoncollaborativeArrangementTransactionsTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCollaborativeArrangementsAndNoncollaborativeArrangementTransactionsTable_637012182467189658" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCollaborativeArrangementsAndNoncollaborativeArrangementTransactionsTable_637012182467189658" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TypeOfArrangementAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_TypeOfArrangementAxis_637012182467189658" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCollaborativeArrangementsAndNoncollaborativeArrangementTransactionsTable_637012182467189658" xlink:to="us-gaap_TypeOfArrangementAxis_637012182467189658" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember_637012182467189658" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_TypeOfArrangementAxis_637012182467189658" xlink:to="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember_637012182467189658" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_ResearchAndDevelopmentCollaborativeAgreementMember" xlink:label="nxtc_ResearchAndDevelopmentCollaborativeAgreementMember_637012182467189658" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember_637012182467189658" xlink:to="nxtc_ResearchAndDevelopmentCollaborativeAgreementMember_637012182467189658" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" xlink:label="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis_637012182467189658" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCollaborativeArrangementsAndNoncollaborativeArrangementTransactionsTable_637012182467189658" xlink:to="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis_637012182467189658" order="2" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:label="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain_637012182467189658" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis_637012182467189658" xlink:to="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain_637012182467189658" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_EliLillyAndCompanyMember" xlink:label="nxtc_EliLillyAndCompanyMember_637012182467189658" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain_637012182467189658" xlink:to="nxtc_EliLillyAndCompanyMember_637012182467189658" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CollaborativeArrangementsAndNoncollaborativeArrangementTransactionsLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_CollaborativeArrangementsAndNoncollaborativeArrangementTransactionsLineItems_637012182467189658" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCollaborativeArrangementsAndNoncollaborativeArrangementTransactionsTable_637012182467189658" xlink:to="us-gaap_CollaborativeArrangementsAndNoncollaborativeArrangementTransactionsLineItems_637012182467189658" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementPeriodOfExpiryFromDateOfAgreement" xlink:label="nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementPeriodOfExpiryFromDateOfAgreement_637012182467189658" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CollaborativeArrangementsAndNoncollaborativeArrangementTransactionsLineItems_637012182467189658" xlink:to="nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementPeriodOfExpiryFromDateOfAgreement_637012182467189658" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementUpfrontNonRefundablePaymentReceived" xlink:label="nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementUpfrontNonRefundablePaymentReceived_637012182467189658" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CollaborativeArrangementsAndNoncollaborativeArrangementTransactionsLineItems_637012182467189658" xlink:to="nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementUpfrontNonRefundablePaymentReceived_637012182467189658" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfPreferredStockAndPreferenceStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfPreferredStockAndPreferenceStock_637012182467189658" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CollaborativeArrangementsAndNoncollaborativeArrangementTransactionsLineItems_637012182467189658" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfPreferredStockAndPreferenceStock_637012182467189658" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementMaximumDevelopmentRegulatoryAndSalesMilestoneReceivable" xlink:label="nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementMaximumDevelopmentRegulatoryAndSalesMilestoneReceivable_637012182467189658" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CollaborativeArrangementsAndNoncollaborativeArrangementTransactionsLineItems_637012182467189658" xlink:to="nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementMaximumDevelopmentRegulatoryAndSalesMilestoneReceivable_637012182467189658" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementMaximumDevelopmentRegulatoryAndSalesMilestonePayableUponOptionExercise" xlink:label="nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementMaximumDevelopmentRegulatoryAndSalesMilestonePayableUponOptionExercise_637012182467189658" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CollaborativeArrangementsAndNoncollaborativeArrangementTransactionsLineItems_637012182467189658" xlink:to="nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementMaximumDevelopmentRegulatoryAndSalesMilestonePayableUponOptionExercise_637012182467189658" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_RevenueRecognitionNumberOfPerformanceObligations" xlink:label="nxtc_RevenueRecognitionNumberOfPerformanceObligations_637012182467189658" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CollaborativeArrangementsAndNoncollaborativeArrangementTransactionsLineItems_637012182467189658" xlink:to="nxtc_RevenueRecognitionNumberOfPerformanceObligations_637012182467189658" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax_637012182467189658" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CollaborativeArrangementsAndNoncollaborativeArrangementTransactionsLineItems_637012182467189658" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax_637012182467189658" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_CollaborationAgreementTransactionPrice" xlink:label="nxtc_CollaborationAgreementTransactionPrice_637012182467199626" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CollaborativeArrangementsAndNoncollaborativeArrangementTransactionsLineItems_637012182467189658" xlink:to="nxtc_CollaborationAgreementTransactionPrice_637012182467199626" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureAgreementWithEliLillyAndCompanyDeferredRevenueIncludedInBalanceSheetsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40502 - Disclosure - Agreement with Eli Lilly and Company - Deferred revenue included in balance sheets (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementDisclosureAbstract_636946485196235018" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ChangeInContractWithCustomerLiabilityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_ChangeInContractWithCustomerLiabilityAbstract_637012182467229554" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="nxtc_CollaborativeArrangementDisclosureAbstract_636946485196235018" xlink:to="us-gaap_ChangeInContractWithCustomerLiabilityAbstract_637012182467229554" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenue" xlink:label="nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenue_637012182467229554" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ChangeInContractWithCustomerLiabilityAbstract_637012182467229554" xlink:to="nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenue_637012182467229554" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueUpFrontPayment" xlink:label="nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueUpFrontPayment_637012182467229554" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ChangeInContractWithCustomerLiabilityAbstract_637012182467229554" xlink:to="nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueUpFrontPayment_637012182467229554" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueAttributedPremiumOnProceedsFromInvestment" xlink:label="nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueAttributedPremiumOnProceedsFromInvestment_637012182467229554" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ChangeInContractWithCustomerLiabilityAbstract_637012182467229554" xlink:to="nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueAttributedPremiumOnProceedsFromInvestment_637012182467229554" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueResearchAndDevelopmentSupportPayment" xlink:label="nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueResearchAndDevelopmentSupportPayment_637012182467229554" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ChangeInContractWithCustomerLiabilityAbstract_637012182467229554" xlink:to="nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueResearchAndDevelopmentSupportPayment_637012182467229554" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueCollaborationRevenueRecognized" xlink:label="nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueCollaborationRevenueRecognized_637012182467229554" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ChangeInContractWithCustomerLiabilityAbstract_637012182467229554" xlink:to="nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueCollaborationRevenueRecognized_637012182467229554" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenue" xlink:label="nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenue_6370121824672295541" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ChangeInContractWithCustomerLiabilityAbstract_637012182467229554" xlink:to="nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenue_6370121824672295541" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueCurrent" xlink:label="nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueCurrent_637012182467229554" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ChangeInContractWithCustomerLiabilityAbstract_637012182467229554" xlink:to="nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueCurrent_637012182467229554" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueNoncurrent" xlink:label="nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueNoncurrent_637012182467229554" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ChangeInContractWithCustomerLiabilityAbstract_637012182467229554" xlink:to="nxtc_RelatedPartyTransactionsDeferredRevenueNoncurrent_637012182467229554" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="6" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesOtherDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40601 - Disclosure - Commitments and Contingencies - Other (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_PeriodForWhichBaseRentIsAbated" xlink:label="nxtc_PeriodForWhichBaseRentIsAbated_637012182467229554" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="nxtc_PeriodForWhichBaseRentIsAbated_637012182467229554" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_AnnualBaseRentPerMonthAfterAbatement" xlink:label="nxtc_AnnualBaseRentPerMonthAfterAbatement_637012182467229554" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="nxtc_AnnualBaseRentPerMonthAfterAbatement_637012182467229554" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_PercentageOfAnnualIncreaseInLeaseRent" xlink:label="nxtc_PercentageOfAnnualIncreaseInLeaseRent_637012182467239521" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="nxtc_PercentageOfAnnualIncreaseInLeaseRent_637012182467239521" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_LetterOfCredit" xlink:label="nxtc_LetterOfCredit_637012182467239521" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="nxtc_LetterOfCredit_637012182467239521" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsReceivable" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsReceivable_637012182467239521" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsReceivable_637012182467239521" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesRentExpenseNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesRentExpenseNet_637012182467239521" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesRentExpenseNet_637012182467239521" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesFutureMinimumPaymentsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40602 - Disclosure - Commitments and Contingencies - Future Minimum Payments (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueAbstract_637012182467239521" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueAbstract_637012182467239521" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsRemainderOfFiscalYear" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsRemainderOfFiscalYear_637012182467239521" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueAbstract_637012182467239521" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsRemainderOfFiscalYear_637012182467239521" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInTwoYears" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInTwoYears_637012182467239521" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueAbstract_637012182467239521" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInTwoYears_637012182467239521" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInThreeYears" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInThreeYears_637012182467239521" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueAbstract_637012182467239521" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInThreeYears_637012182467239521" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFourYears" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFourYears_637012182467239521" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueAbstract_637012182467239521" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFourYears_637012182467239521" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFiveYears" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFiveYears_637012182467239521" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueAbstract_637012182467239521" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFiveYears_637012182467239521" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueThereafter" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueThereafter_637012182467239521" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueAbstract_637012182467239521" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueThereafter_637012182467239521" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDue" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDue_637012182467239521" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueAbstract_637012182467239521" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDue_637012182467239521" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureTermLoanOtherDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40701 - Disclosure - Term Loan - Other (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable_637012182467239521" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable_637012182467239521" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis_637012182467239521" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637012182467239521" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis_637012182467239521" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_637012182467239521" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis_637012182467239521" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_637012182467239521" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PrimeRateMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PrimeRateMember_637012182467239521" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_637012182467239521" xlink:to="us-gaap_PrimeRateMember_637012182467239521" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_637012182467239521" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637012182467239521" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_637012182467239521" order="2" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_637012182467239521" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_637012182467239521" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_637012182467239521" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_637012182467239521" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_637012182467239521" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_637012182467239521" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467239521" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637012182467239521" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467239521" order="3" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount_637012182467239521" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467239521" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount_637012182467239521" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1_637012182467239521" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467239521" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1_637012182467239521" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateDuringPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateDuringPeriod_637012182467239521" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467239521" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateDuringPeriod_637012182467239521" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="6" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_DebtInstrumentMonthlyPaymentsNumber" xlink:label="nxtc_DebtInstrumentMonthlyPaymentsNumber_637012182467249484" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467239521" xlink:to="nxtc_DebtInstrumentMonthlyPaymentsNumber_637012182467249484" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpense_637012182467249484" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637012182467239521" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpense_637012182467249484" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureTermLoanMaturitiesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40702 - Disclosure - Term Loan - Maturities (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtByMaturityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtByMaturityAbstract_637012182467249484" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtByMaturityAbstract_637012182467249484" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearTwo" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearTwo_637012182467249484" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtByMaturityAbstract_637012182467249484" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearTwo_637012182467249484" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearThree" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearThree_637012182467249484" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtByMaturityAbstract_637012182467249484" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearThree_637012182467249484" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFour" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFour_637012182467249484" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtByMaturityAbstract_637012182467249484" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFour_637012182467249484" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFive" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFive_637012182467249484" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtByMaturityAbstract_637012182467249484" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFive_637012182467249484" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebt_637012182467249484" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtByMaturityAbstract_637012182467249484" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebt_637012182467249484" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent_637012182467249484" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtByMaturityAbstract_637012182467249484" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent_637012182467249484" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="6" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent_637012182467249484" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtByMaturityAbstract_637012182467249484" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent_637012182467249484" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="6" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationStockOptionsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40801 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation - Stock options (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_636915319547421245" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637012182467249484" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_636915319547421245" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637012182467249484" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis_637012182467249484" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637012182467249484" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis_637012182467249484" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain_637012182467249484" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis_637012182467249484" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain_637012182467249484" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637012182467249484" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain_637012182467249484" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637012182467249484" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis_637012182467249484" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637012182467249484" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis_637012182467249484" order="2" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_637012182467249484" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis_637012182467249484" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_637012182467249484" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_A2015OmnibusIncentivePlanMember" xlink:label="nxtc_A2015OmnibusIncentivePlanMember_637012182467249484" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_637012182467249484" xlink:to="nxtc_A2015OmnibusIncentivePlanMember_637012182467249484" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_OmnibusIncentive2019PlanMember" xlink:label="nxtc_OmnibusIncentive2019PlanMember_637012182467249484" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_637012182467249484" xlink:to="nxtc_OmnibusIncentive2019PlanMember_637012182467249484" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_OmnibusIncentive2015PlanAndEmployeeStockPurchase2019PlanMember" xlink:label="nxtc_OmnibusIncentive2015PlanAndEmployeeStockPurchase2019PlanMember_637012182467249484" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_637012182467249484" xlink:to="nxtc_OmnibusIncentive2015PlanAndEmployeeStockPurchase2019PlanMember_637012182467249484" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_EmployeeStockPurchase2019PlanMember" xlink:label="nxtc_EmployeeStockPurchase2019PlanMember_637012182467259472" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_637012182467249484" xlink:to="nxtc_EmployeeStockPurchase2019PlanMember_637012182467259472" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_637012182467259472" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637012182467249484" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_637012182467259472" order="3" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_637012182467259472" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_637012182467259472" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_637012182467259472" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember_637012182467259472" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_637012182467259472" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember_637012182467259472" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_637012182467259472" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_637012182467259472" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_637012182467259472" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637012182467289386" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637012182467249484" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637012182467289386" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_SharePriceOfCommonStockOnDateOfGrantAsPercentOfFairMarketValueOfCompanyStock" xlink:label="nxtc_SharePriceOfCommonStockOnDateOfGrantAsPercentOfFairMarketValueOfCompanyStock_637012182467289386" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637012182467289386" xlink:to="nxtc_SharePriceOfCommonStockOnDateOfGrantAsPercentOfFairMarketValueOfCompanyStock_637012182467289386" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingContractualTerm" xlink:label="nxtc_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingContractualTerm_637012182467289386" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637012182467289386" xlink:to="nxtc_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingContractualTerm_637012182467289386" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1_637012182467289386" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637012182467289386" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1_637012182467289386" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardExpirationPeriod" xlink:label="nxtc_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardExpirationPeriod_637012182467289386" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637012182467289386" xlink:to="nxtc_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardExpirationPeriod_637012182467289386" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount_637012182467289386" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637012182467289386" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount_637012182467289386" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockCapitalSharesReservedForFutureIssuance" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockCapitalSharesReservedForFutureIssuance_637012182467289386" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637012182467289386" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockCapitalSharesReservedForFutureIssuance_637012182467289386" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementIncreaseInSharesForIssuanceAsPercentageOfNumberOfCommonStockOutstanding" xlink:label="nxtc_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementIncreaseInSharesForIssuanceAsPercentageOfNumberOfCommonStockOutstanding_637012182467289386" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637012182467289386" xlink:to="nxtc_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementIncreaseInSharesForIssuanceAsPercentageOfNumberOfCommonStockOutstanding_637012182467289386" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementThresholdNumberOfCommonStockForIssuanceUnderPlan" xlink:label="nxtc_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementThresholdNumberOfCommonStockForIssuanceUnderPlan_637012182467289386" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637012182467289386" xlink:to="nxtc_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementThresholdNumberOfCommonStockForIssuanceUnderPlan_637012182467289386" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingRollForward" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingRollForward_637012182467289386" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637012182467289386" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingRollForward_637012182467289386" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber_637012182467289386" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingRollForward_637012182467289386" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber_637012182467289386" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross_637012182467289386" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingRollForward_637012182467289386" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross_637012182467289386" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised_637012182467299361" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingRollForward_637012182467289386" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised_637012182467299361" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="6" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber_637012182467299361" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingRollForward_637012182467289386" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber_637012182467299361" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestOutstandingNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestOutstandingNumber_637012182467299361" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingRollForward_637012182467289386" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestOutstandingNumber_637012182467299361" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestExercisableNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestExercisableNumber_637012182467299361" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingRollForward_637012182467289386" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestExercisableNumber_637012182467299361" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePriceRollforward" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePriceRollforward_637012182467299361" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637012182467289386" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePriceRollforward_637012182467299361" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637012182467299361" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePriceRollforward_637012182467299361" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637012182467299361" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637012182467299361" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePriceRollforward_637012182467299361" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637012182467299361" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637012182467299361" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePriceRollforward_637012182467299361" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637012182467299361" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice_6370121824672993611" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePriceRollforward_637012182467299361" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice_6370121824672993611" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637012182467299361" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePriceRollforward_637012182467299361" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637012182467299361" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestExercisableWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestExercisableWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637012182467299361" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePriceRollforward_637012182467299361" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestExercisableWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637012182467299361" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsAdditionalDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsAdditionalDisclosuresAbstract_637012182467299361" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637012182467289386" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsAdditionalDisclosuresAbstract_637012182467299361" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm2" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm2_637012182467309341" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsAdditionalDisclosuresAbstract_637012182467299361" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm2_637012182467309341" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="9" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm" xlink:label="nxtc_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm_637012182467309341" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsAdditionalDisclosuresAbstract_637012182467299361" xlink:to="nxtc_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm_637012182467309341" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisedWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm" xlink:label="nxtc_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisedWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm_637012182467309341" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsAdditionalDisclosuresAbstract_637012182467299361" xlink:to="nxtc_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisedWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm_637012182467309341" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue_637012182467309341" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsAdditionalDisclosuresAbstract_637012182467299361" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue_637012182467309341" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue_6370121824673093411" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsAdditionalDisclosuresAbstract_637012182467299361" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue_6370121824673093411" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestOutstandingAggregateIntrinsicValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestOutstandingAggregateIntrinsicValue_637012182467309341" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsAdditionalDisclosuresAbstract_637012182467299361" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestOutstandingAggregateIntrinsicValue_637012182467309341" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestExercisableAggregateIntrinsicValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestExercisableAggregateIntrinsicValue_637012182467309341" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsAdditionalDisclosuresAbstract_637012182467299361" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestExercisableAggregateIntrinsicValue_637012182467309341" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637012182467309341" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsAdditionalDisclosuresAbstract_637012182467299361" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637012182467309341" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodTotalIntrinsicValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodTotalIntrinsicValue_637012182467309341" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsAdditionalDisclosuresAbstract_637012182467299361" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodTotalIntrinsicValue_637012182467309341" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationStockBasedCompensationExpenseDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40802 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation - Stock based compensation expense (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfEmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationAllocationOfRecognizedPeriodCostsTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationAllocationOfRecognizedPeriodCostsTable_637012182467319338" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationAllocationOfRecognizedPeriodCostsTable_637012182467319338" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis_637012182467319338" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationAllocationOfRecognizedPeriodCostsTable_637012182467319338" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis_637012182467319338" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_637012182467319338" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis_637012182467319338" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_637012182467319338" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpenseMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpenseMember_637012182467319338" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_637012182467319338" xlink:to="us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpenseMember_637012182467319338" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpenseMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpenseMember_637012182467319338" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_637012182467319338" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpenseMember_637012182467319338" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationAllocationOfRecognizedPeriodCostsLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationAllocationOfRecognizedPeriodCostsLineItems_637012182467319338" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationAllocationOfRecognizedPeriodCostsTable_637012182467319338" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationAllocationOfRecognizedPeriodCostsLineItems_637012182467319338" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense_637012182467319338" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationAllocationOfRecognizedPeriodCostsLineItems_637012182467319338" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense_637012182467319338" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="409101 - Disclosure - Income Taxes - (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_637012182467319338" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_637012182467319338" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.nextcure.com/role/DisclosureSubsequentEventsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41001 - Disclosure - Subsequent Events - (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable_637012182467319338" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable_637012182467319338" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_637012182467319338" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable_637012182467319338" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_637012182467319338" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_637012182467319338" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_637012182467319338" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_637012182467319338" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember_637012182467319338" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_637012182467319338" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember_637012182467319338" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_637012182467319338" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable_637012182467319338" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_637012182467319338" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_PeriodForWhichBaseRentIsAbated" xlink:label="nxtc_PeriodForWhichBaseRentIsAbated_637012182467319338" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_637012182467319338" xlink:to="nxtc_PeriodForWhichBaseRentIsAbated_637012182467319338" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_AnnualBaseRentPerMonthAfterAbatement" xlink:label="nxtc_AnnualBaseRentPerMonthAfterAbatement_637012182467319338" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_637012182467319338" xlink:to="nxtc_AnnualBaseRentPerMonthAfterAbatement_637012182467319338" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="nxtc-20190630.xsd#nxtc_PercentageOfAnnualIncreaseInLeaseRent" xlink:label="nxtc_PercentageOfAnnualIncreaseInLeaseRent_637012182467319338" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_637012182467319338" xlink:to="nxtc_PercentageOfAnnualIncreaseInLeaseRent_637012182467319338" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
  </presentationLink>
</link:linkbase>





