Understanding the statistics that matter for your NCLEX journey.
If you’re a Filipino nurse preparing for the NCLEX, you’ve probably wondered: “What are my chances of passing?” It’s a natural question—and the answer lies in the statistics.
But here’s what matters more than the numbers: Understanding what the pass rates mean and how to position yourself on the right side of them.
NCLEX-RN Pass Rates: The Big Picture
The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) publishes annual pass rate data. Here’s what the 2024 numbers reveal:
Overall Pass Rates (2024)
| Category | Pass Rate |
|---|---|
| US-Educated, First-Time | 87-89% |
| US-Educated, Repeat | 42-46% |
| Internationally Educated, First-Time | 37-42% |
| Internationally Educated, Repeat | 33-38% |
Key Insight: There’s a significant gap between US-educated and internationally educated nurses. This isn’t about intelligence—it’s about preparation and exam familiarity.
Filipino Nurses: The Numbers
The Philippines is consistently the #1 source country for internationally educated nurses taking the NCLEX. In 2024:
- 28,000+ Filipino nurses took the NCLEX-RN
- Filipino nurses represent approximately 50-60% of all international test-takers
- The Philippine pass rate mirrors the overall international average (~37-42% first-time)
Why These Numbers Matter
These statistics might seem discouraging—but they highlight an opportunity. Nurses who prepare strategically, using the right methods, consistently outperform these averages.
Why Are International Pass Rates Lower?
1. Educational Differences
| NLE (Philippines) | NCLEX (US) |
|---|---|
| Knowledge-based | Application-based |
| “What is…” questions | “What would you do first…” questions |
| 500 fixed questions | 70-145 adaptive questions |
2. NGN Question Types
The Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) introduced new question formats in 2023:
- Extended drag-and-drop
- Cloze (fill-in-the-blank)
- Matrix/grid
- Highlighting
- Case studies with multiple questions
3. Prioritization and Delegation
US nursing scope of practice differs from Philippine hospital culture:
- LPN/LVN roles don’t exist in the Philippines
- UAP scope differs
- Delegation questions require understanding US standards
4. Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT)
- You can’t go back to previous questions
- Difficulty adjusts based on performance
- Unknown total questions creates anxiety
First-Time vs Repeat Taker Statistics
| Attempt | US-Educated | International |
|---|---|---|
| First-Time | 87-89% | 37-42% |
| Repeat | 42-46% | 33-38% |
Why First-Time Passers Do Better
- Fresh knowledge — Content is still recent
- Momentum — No psychological baggage
- Better preparation — Thorough prep often leads to first-time pass
- Confidence — Lower anxiety without prior failure
Factors That Improve Your Pass Rate
1. Quality Review Program
- Filipino nurse-focused content
- NGN question coverage
- Clinical judgment training
2. Extensive Question Practice
| Questions Practiced | Correlation |
|---|---|
| <1,000 | Lower pass rate |
| 1,000-2,000 | Moderate |
| 2,000-3,000+ | Higher pass rate |
Recommendation: Complete at least 2,500-3,000 practice questions with rationale review.
3. Consistent Study Schedule
| Study Pattern | Effectiveness |
|---|---|
| Cramming (1-2 weeks) | Lowest |
| Inconsistent | Low-Moderate |
| Consistent 8-12 weeks | Moderate-High |
| Consistent 12-16 weeks | Highest |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current NCLEX pass rate for Filipino nurses?
Filipino nurses have a first-time pass rate of approximately 37-42% as part of the internationally educated group, based on 2024 NCSBN data.
Is the NCLEX harder than the NLE?
They’re different exams. The NLE tests knowledge recall; the NCLEX tests clinical judgment and application. Many Filipino nurses find NCLEX more challenging because it requires a different thinking approach.
How many attempts can I take for NCLEX?
Most states allow unlimited attempts with a 45-90 day wait between attempts. However, passing first time is preferable for career and psychological reasons.
What’s the best way to improve my chances of passing?
Use a quality review program, complete 2,500-3,000+ practice questions, focus on NGN question types, and maintain a consistent 12-16 week study schedule.
Your Pass Rate Is in Your Hands
Statistics are informative, but they’re not destiny. The 37-42% international pass rate represents an average—and averages include both those who prepared well and those who didn’t.
You get to choose which side of the statistic you’re on.
With the right preparation, you can join the nurses who beat the statistics and pass the NCLEX on their first attempt.
Contact Ray A. Gapuz Review System:
- Website: raygapuzreviewsystem.com
- Location: United Nations Avenue, Manila
- Programs: NCLEX Review, NLE-to-NCLEX Bridge, NGN Bootcamp