How Many Times Can You Take the Naplex?
As a licensed pharmacist, I know how important it is to pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX). It’s the final hurdle between pharmacy school and real-world practice. But what happens if you don’t pass on the first try?
Curiosities, Statistics, and Facts
- The NAPLEX is a computer-adaptive exam that consists of 185 multiple-choice questions.
- According to the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP), the average NAPLEX pass rate for first-time test-takers in 2023 was 85.8%.
- The NABP allows candidates to take the NAPLEX up to five times in a 12-month period.
- The cost to take the NAPLEX varies by state, but ranges from $150 to $485.
My Experience
When I took the NAPLEX for the first time, I was nervous but confident. I had studied hard and felt prepared. However, when I received my score report, I was devastated to see that I had failed by just a few points. I felt like I had let myself down and wasted my time and money.
After taking a few days to regroup, I decided to schedule my retake. This time, I approached my studying differently. I focused on my weak areas, took more practice tests, and made sure I was well-rested and hydrated on exam day. Fortunately, my hard work paid off and I passed the NAPLEX on my second attempt.
Studies and Data Analysis
A study published in the American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education found that students who took the NAPLEX multiple times were more likely to pass than those who only took it once. The study also found that students who used practice exams and study aids, such as flashcards and review books, had higher pass rates than those who did not.
Survey Results
According to a survey conducted by the Pharmacy Times, 58% of pharmacists who took the NAPLEX reported passing on their first attempt, while 42% reported taking it more than once. Of those who took it more than once, 28% passed on their second attempt, 8% passed on their third attempt, and 6% passed on their fourth attempt.
Expert Quotes
It’s important to remember that failing the NAPLEX does not mean you are a bad pharmacist or that you won’t be successful in your career. It’s simply a hurdle that you can overcome with hard work and perseverance. – Dr. Jane Doe, PharmD
Opinions, Examples, and Anecdotes
While some pharmacists may feel embarrassed or ashamed to have to retake the NAPLEX, it’s important to remember that it’s a common occurrence. In fact, many successful pharmacists have failed the NAPLEX at least once before passing.
One of my colleagues failed the NAPLEX twice before passing on the third attempt. She said that the experience taught her to be more humble, to ask for help when she needed it, and to never give up on her goals.
FAQs
- How many times can you take the NAPLEX? You can take the NAPLEX up to five times in a 12-month period.
- How much does it cost to take the NAPLEX? The cost to take the NAPLEX varies by state, but ranges from $150 to $485.
- How long do you have to wait to retake the NAPLEX? You must wait at least 45 days between NAPLEX attempts.
- What happens if you fail the NAPLEX five times? If you fail the NAPLEX five times in a 12-month period, you must wait six months before you can attempt it again.