After graduation, the only thing standing between you and becoming a real-deal RN is…the NCLEX! 👀
So, it’s only natural that a large portion of your brain space is occupied, wondering (or worrying, some would say), “What the test is like?” “How much time should be spent studying?” “Do I really need to study all that hard? I just graduated nursing school after all!”
While the NCLEX is a test you can absolutely pass, it does require time and effort to see that result. So, let’s discuss what the NCLEX pass rates are, what that means for you, and the best way to use knowledge of the pass rates for your future, NCLEX-taking self.
So, what are the numbers?
Between 2018-2024, the average NCLEX pass rate was 86.58%. The highest scoring year in the past 7 years was 2024, with a pass rate of 92.10% (NCSBN). These numbers look great, especially following the recent roll-out of the Next Generation NCLEX (NGN)!
However, before you think you’ve just freed up the next 2-3 months set aside to prepare for the NCLEX, you still need to study. Behind these scores are some very important caveats. Let’s take a closer look at what has impacted these pass rates. That way when the time comes, you can walk into the NCLEX with confidence and walk out as a real-deal RN!
What impacts the NCLEX pass rate?
1. The NGN and a new scoring system
With the introduction of the NGN in April 2023, a new scoring system was implemented. The NGN has moved away from the “recall and application” multiple-choice style questions in favor of questions that focus on critical thinking and clinical judgment. These changes were added to more accurately represent the types of scenarios real life nurses may encounter.
Additionally, various question formats have also been introduced, including hot spots (highlighting correct answers), drag and drop options, drop-down tables, and multiple response matrices.
💡 Check out this blog post for a detailed explanation (videos included) of the new NGN question formats!
Partial Credit
With these new question formats, changes to the scoring system have taken place. While questions were previously scored as purely right or wrong, partial credit is now available. For example, with the previous version of the NCLEX, select all that apply questions types required all correct answers and no incorrect answers be selected in order to receive a point.
Now with the NGN, select all that apply questions can now be scored using the +/- scoring model. This model adds one point for each correct answer and subtracts a point for each incorrect answer. This allows for incorrect answers to be selected while still maintaining the opportunity to earn points- great news! However, we still want to be successful with these new question types, so it is still so important to study!
0/1 Scoring
Another scoring model now used is the 0/1 scoring method which gives 1 point for a correct answer and 0 points for an incorrect answer. Additionally, with a focus now on critical thinking and clinical judgment abilities, the NGN uses rationale scoring when faced with question formats that require knowledge of the correct action and justification for choosing that action.
For these question types, both answers need to be correct to receive a point. This is why studying and understanding how to apply what you learn is crucial to being successful on the exam.
So, while the NGN offers great opportunities with a new partial credit scoring system, you still need to be highly prepared and able to critically think!
Check out Blueprint’s study resources for access to all the information you need to know AND how to apply that information on the NGN. 🧠
2. Repeat test-taking
According to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), the pass rate for first-time NCLEX takers in 2024 was almost double that of second-time test takers (i.e., 92% for 1st time baccalaureate prepared nurses versus 52% for US-educated repeat test takers). This statistic holds true when looking at pass rates from 2018-2024.
💡 In other words, the pass rate of second-time test takers has remained fairly low compared to first-time test takers before and after the implementation of the NGN NCLEX.
Knowing this, you should continue to thoroughly prepare for the NCLEX to make sure you pass on the first attempt. Not only do you have a more favorable statistical chance of passing on the first time, but it also helps mitigate additional anxiety, extra fees, and waiting time associated with retaking the test.
Key Takeaways
- Even with high, first-time test taking NGN pass rates, you still need to study!
- Despite a new partial credit scoring system, you need to know how to apply the information you’ve learned.
- It’s better to over prepare to make sure you pass on the first try, rather than having to take it again…and the statistics prove it!
Have more questions about the NGN and how to properly prepare? Let us be your study buddy! Here are some recommended resources to help you get started on your studying journey:
- Blueprint Study Courses: Live or Self-Paced
- NCLEX How-To: Study Edition
- NCLEX How-To: Mitigate Test-Taking Anxiety
Helpful hint: Feeling anxious before the exam? Join our Facebook group to find support in other students who are in the same boat!
