What Nursing Educators Need To Know From The Latest NCSBN® Conference

 Key Takeaways on Pass Rates and Trends

• The NCSBN® reported a notable 5% drop in Q3 pass rates for first-time RN test takers, falling from 89% to 84%. While this is significant, it’s important to remember that PN pass rates actually increased slightly, and the overall annual average for both RN and PN students is 87%—a return to pre-COVID levels. This signals a stabilization after the disruptions of the pandemic. 
• During COVID, pass rates dipped due to reduced exam questions and limited clinical access. Now, with hands-on learning and traditional testing restored, we’re seeing a positive trend back to the “old normal.” 

Preparing for Q4 and Beyond

• Historically, Q4 pass rates tend to be the lowest of the year. To counteract this, structured review and a minimum of 50–100 hours of dedicated study remain the gold standard for student success. Reinforcing this with students is more crucial than ever. 
• Faculty do not need to overhaul curricula in response to these trends. Instead, focus on embedding structured NCLEX® prep throughout the final semester and consistently reinforcing client needs categories and clinical judgment from fundamentals onward. 

Looking Ahead: The 2026 Test Plan

• Good news for curriculum committees: The 2026 NCLEX® test plan will not change the percentages for client needs categories for RN and PN exams. Only a handful of new activity statements will be added, based on the 2024 practice analysis. This means your current curriculum will remain aligned, and students graduating around the test plan change will not face major content shifts. 
• The definition of an entry-level nurse has evolved. NCSBN® now considers nurses with up to 12 months of experience as entry-level, reflecting the widespread adoption of structured orientation and residency programs. This change is based on survey data showing 97% of new grads start in such programs, ensuring safer transitions into practice. 

NCLEX® at Home: What’s Next?

• The much-discussed “NCLEX® at Home” option is still in development, with no launch date announced. While this could be a game-changer for students far from test centers or international candidates, NCSBN® is prioritizing test security and integrity. For now, educators should focus on instilling academic honesty and professionalism, regardless of future test delivery methods. 

Final Thoughts for Educators

• The core content and competencies we teach—safe practice, clinical judgment, and strong preparation—remain unchanged. Any updates from NCSBN® will be evolutionary, not revolutionary. Use this time to strengthen proven strategies and reassure students that they are well-prepared for whatever changes may come.