The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) is a critical step for nursing professionals seeking licensure in the United States. Every year, thousands of candidates, both domestic and internationally educated, take this rigorous exam to qualify for nursing practice. In 2024, the NCLEX landscape has seen notable shifts in participation and pass rates.
Decline in Test Takers
In 2024, a total of 317,710 individuals took the NCLEX-RN in the United States. This marks a decrease from 2023, highlighting possible changes in nursing education trends, testing requirements, or workforce dynamics. The number includes both first-time and repeat test takers, as well as candidates educated in the U.S. and abroad.
NCLEX Pass Rates: A Mixed Picture
Pass rates remain a crucial indicator of candidate preparedness and the effectiveness of nursing education programs. The following are key pass rate statistics from 2024:
🔹 First Quarter Overall Pass Rate: 79.08%
🔹 Third Quarter First-Time Test-Taker Pass Rate: 84.36%
🔹 First Half of 2024 Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs) Pass Rate: 50.08%
These figures indicate that while the majority of first-time test takers perform well, internationally educated nurses face greater challenges in passing the exam. This trend underscores the importance of preparatory programs, additional study resources, and targeted support for international candidates.
The Philippines: Leading Country for IEN Candidates
Internationally educated nurses play a crucial role in the U.S. healthcare system. The Philippines remains the top country of origin for IENs taking the NCLEX, reflecting the country’s longstanding tradition of producing globally competent nurses. In the first half of 2024, 14,158 first-time candidates from the Philippines sat for the NCLEX, continuing a trend of strong participation from Filipino nursing graduates.
How Nasya Can Help Nurses Achieve Their U.S. Licensure Goals
For nurses looking to navigate the licensure process, Nasya provides comprehensive support in the following areas:
✔️ NCLEX Application Assistance: Helping candidates with exam registration, eligibility requirements, and state-specific applications.
✔️ License Endorsements: Assisting nurses in transferring their licenses to different states efficiently.
✔️ VisaScreen Process: Guiding internationally educated nurses through the VisaScreen certification, a crucial step for U.S. work authorization.
✔️ Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) Review: Offering structured review programs designed to help nurses prepare for the NGN and maximize their chances of success.
Implications for Nursing Professionals and Employers
The fluctuating NCLEX pass rates and the decline in overall test-taker numbers have several implications:
🔹 Increased Need for NCLEX Preparation Programs: As pass rates for internationally educated nurses remain significantly lower, focused review courses and mentorship programs can help bridge the gap.
🔹 Demand for International Nurses Continues: The U.S. healthcare system continues to rely on internationally trained nurses, especially from the Philippines. Employers may need to offer more support in the licensure and onboarding process.
🔹 Evolving Nursing Education Standards: Nursing schools and educators must adapt to changing exam trends to better prepare students for success on the NCLEX.
The NCLEX-RN is a critical gateway for nursing professionals, and its annual trends provide valuable insights into the state of the nursing workforce. While the overall number of test takers has decreased, strong pass rates among first-time candidates suggest continued success for those who are well-prepared. However, the lower pass rates for internationally educated nurses highlight the need for additional support mechanisms to help these professionals navigate the exam successfully. As the demand for qualified nurses persists, both candidates and employers must stay informed about NCLEX trends to ensure a steady influx of skilled nursing professionals into the healthcare workforce.
For nurses seeking guidance in the NCLEX application process, license endorsements, VisaScreen, and NGN review, Nasya is here to help! Reach out today for expert support in achieving your U.S. nursing licensure goals.
