White Paper: NCLEX-RN® CAT Predictive Validity Study
by Kaplan Nursing | April 29, 2025
Kaplan is committed to providing students with the best NCLEX-RN preparation. To achieve this, we consistently review and improve our instructional and assessment content to ensure alignment with test plans and industry testing standards. A new study completed by Kaplan's Learning Analytics and Psychometrics Team established the predictive validity of our RN Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) computer-adaptive testing (CAT) practice exams in predicting success on the official NCLEX-RN exam. Researchers analyzed data from 839 students across 40 institutions. Ultimately, the study determined that Kaplan's CAT meaningfully predicts a probability of successfully passing the NCLEX-RN. If a student passes the Kaplan CAT on their first attempt, they have a 91% or higher probability of passing the NCLEX-RN exam. Download the white paper below to learn more about the study and its results.
DOWNLOAD “Kaplan’s NCLEX-RN® CAT Predictive Validity Study” to read the white paper.
The white paper offers detailed information and analysis around:
- The predictive validity evidence of the Kaplan RN Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) computer-adaptive testing (CAT) practice exams.
- Aspects of interpretation and use for test preparation.
- The relationship between a student's final theta value in Kaplan's CAT exams and the probability of passing the official NCLEX-RN exam.
- The content and adaptive design for Kaplan's NGN CAT.
- The statistical analysis (logistic regression) used to determine predictive validity.
- The comparison of Kaplan CAT students' pass rates with national NCLEX pass rates.
- The classification accuracy of the Kaplan CAT in predicting NCLEX-RN pass/fail outcomes.
“Of principal importance in the utility of a test preparation assessment instrument is the systematic link between that instrument and the outcome of interest for which students are being prepared. While performance on the assessment can provide insight into the preparedness with respect to content domain, cognitive—and skill—relevant aspects, test form score validity provides inference around predicted success of passing the NCLEX-RN.”
To learn more about how Kaplan can help support you and your students, please reach out to your regional representative or request more information on our website.