Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Nursing graduates first time pass rate average on the annual National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) exceeded state and national averages.
SIUE’s 2013 posted pass rate was 89 percent, compared to the national pass rate of 83 percent and the Illinois pass rate of 85 percent.
In April 2013, the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) implemented a revised test plan and change in passing standard for the NCLEX-RN. Due to the higher standards, the NCSBN projected a 3-5 percent decrease in the passing rate for those taking the NCLEX-RN for the first time.
As a result, many nursing programs have seen a decrease in their NCLEX-RN passage rates. The national first-time pass rate average decline to 83 percent between April and June 2013 reflects a 9.74 percent decrease from the previous quarter. To ensure public protection, NCSBN member board jurisdictions require a candidate for licensure to pass an exam that measures the competencies needed to perform safely and effectively as a newly licensed, entry-level nurse.
Dr. Anne Perry, interim dean of the SIUE School of Nursing, identified a number of variables that may have contributed to the NCLEX-RN rate success, but believes that the School’s collective commitment to student success and excellence were the biggest factors.
“The SIUE School of Nursing is a community of scholars who are committed to excellence in practice and education,” Perry said. “Maintaining a high passage rate in light of the revised test plan and increased standards is extremely encouraging. Our graduates were well prepared due to our student-centered learning environment and through the incorporation of best practices by our dedicated faculty.”