The first-time pass-rate for Immaculata University students taking the NCLEX nursing exam is not only higher than most in the region, but higher than the national average. Through program adjustments and careful evaluation of how they can make students successful, Immaculata has become one of the most dedicated schools in ensuring their students’ futures. 

Immaculata’s NCLEX pass rate for 2021-22 (90.48 percent) is 10 percentage points higher than the national average (79.92 percent). It is six percentage points higher than the statewide average (84.37 percent), which is also five percentage points higher than the average pass rate (85.19 percent) for other southeastern Pennsylvania colleges with B.S.N. programs.   

Immaculata’s NCLEX pass rates have surpassed the national average since 2017—and 100 percent of 2022 B.S.N. graduates who passed the NCLEX have nursing jobs. 

But Immaculata had to work hard to make their nursing program the powerhouse that it is today. 

After reviewing their program in 2016, the school implemented their NCLEX Success Project.  

“Through the NCLEX Success Project, we provide students with the materials, resources and support they need to prepare for the exam,” said Celina Siwula, Division of Nursing Assistant Professor and Director of Prelicensure BSN Program.  

“This allows students to continue working and preparing themselves for NCLEX after graduation. While it is a lot of work, we want them to keep moving forward which leads them to success.” 

The students have been working a lot harder with these changes. Each student has an advisor to help guide them and be there every step of the way as they complete the program. The advisors talk them through studying, answering questions, and they reassure, and remind students that they are well-prepared and ready to pass the NCLEX. 

Siwula knows it is a busy, rigorous program. But she also sees how the students react after they finish their exams. 

“When they pass on the first try, they always say ‘it was all worth it and we’re so glad. The program made the exam seem easy!’” she said. 

Additionally, nursing program alumni return each year as a panel for current seniors because they know how hard they worked to achieve their dreams. It is an opportunity for the students to see what they will become. 

Immaculata’s Success Project has been recognized by other institutions, and it has helped Immaculata pass their Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accreditation, which ensures the quality and integrity of the nursing programs at Immaculata. “The biggest reward is seeing our students pass the NCLEX,” said Siwula. “We’re proud to see them achieve success as they get their first job as BSN prepared RNs.”  

Learn more at Immaculata University.