If you’re on the path to becoming a licensed nurse, you know that passing the NCLEX® is key. But with recent declines in pass rates, it’s more important than ever to prepare effectively. Let’s look at the drop in NCLEX pass rates and explore strategies and resources that can make a real difference in your study routine.
Why are NCLEX Pass Rates Decreasing?
When the Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) was first introduced in April of 2023, pass rates increased. This increase could have been for numerous reasons, including the allowance of partial credit on the exam. However, pass rates for both the NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN exams have begun to show some concerning trends.
The NCSBN recently released NCLEX pass rates for Q1 of 2025, and they reveal some alarming numbers: pass rates have declined across all categories compared to Q1 of 2024. This drop is significant among both first-time test takers and internationally educated candidates.
Here are some specifics:
NCLEX-RN
- Pass rates for first-time US-Educated test takers dropped 5.78%, going from 94.15% to 88.37%.
- First-time Internationally educated test takers saw a decline of 12.22% from 58.77% to 46.55%.
- The largest pass rate drop was for internationally educated repeat test takers, with a decrease of 13.90% from 44.05% to 30.15%.
NCLEX-PN
- First-time US-Educated test takers saw a pass rate drop of 5.78% from 91.09% to 86.28%
What is driving the decrease in pass rates? While there is no one clear cause, several factors could be impacting performance:
- Students might find the new case-based questions challenging, as these require applying knowledge to real-world situations rather than simply recalling information.
- A significant number of students who took the NCLEX in 2024 began their nursing education during the COVID-19 pandemic, when opportunities for in-person clinical experiences were limited. This lack of hands-on practice may have affected their confidence.
- The decline in pass rates could be contributing to heightened stress and anxiety among test-takers.
- The fear of failing the NCLEX is common among students and can adversely impact their focus and performance on exam day.
How Can I Pass the NCLEX?
Don’t let a decrease in pass rates increase your anxiety. The truth is, how others perform on the NCLEX has no bearing on how you’ll do on the exam. By developing the right study plan and choosing the top resources, you will be prepared for test day.
Active learning is a proven study method, and it should be an essential part of your NCLEX prep. By completing NCLEX practice questions, you’ll get a taste for what you’ll see on the exam. This approach not only helps students grasp complex concepts but also builds their confidence in tackling the exam.
Question banks allow you to simulate the NCLEX testing environment, meaning you’ll become familiar with the format and types of questions you’ll see on the real exam. By practicing with these questions, you can identify your strengths and weaknesses, letting you focus your study time more effectively.
Why Choose BoardVitals for NCLEX Prep?
BoardVitals offers an online NCLEX-RN® question bank and NCLEX-PN® question bank that mirror the CAT technology used for the NCLEX®. With BoardVitals NGN NCLEX® question banks, personalize your study time with unlimited customizable practice exams from our collection of more than 3,700+ NCLEX practice questions. All questions include detailed explanations for correct and incorrect answers.
As you prepare for your NCLEX exam, don’t let declining pass rates cause you stress. With the right study tools, you’ll prepare effectively and achieve your goal of becoming a licensed nurse.
