This is a tricky question, and it’s something a lot of students face as their test date gets closer. If you’re not passing your practice exams, you might be wondering: Should I delay the NPTE or take it anyway and hope for the best? The answer, of course, is “it depends.”

 

What Do Practice Exam Scores Really Tell You?

Practice exams aren’t perfect predictors of your NPTE result, but they do provide valuable insights into how prepared you are. If you’re consistently failing, it might indicate you’re not ready—but it’s not the whole story.

The NPTE is designed to test application, not just memorization. If you’re close to passing your practice exams and feel like you’re improving, it might be worth taking the test. But if you’re significantly below the passing threshold, it may be a sign to delay and focus on targeted studying.

What to Consider Before Making Your Decision

How Close Are You?

If you’re within a few points of passing your practice exams, you might be closer than you think. Sometimes, the extra adrenaline and focus of the actual test can push you over the edge.

However, if you’re consistently scoring 20+ points below the passing score, it’s a strong indicator that you need more time to prepare. If this is you, you need to assess why you aren’t improving enough.

How Are Your Finances?

Let’s be real—the NPTE isn’t cheap. If finances are tight, it’s probably smarter to delay until you feel more confident. But if money isn’t a concern, go for it! You MIGHT pass and even if you don’t you’ll have 5 more chances to take it.

Do You Have Time to Wait?

Your biggest obstacle might not be the test itself but the time it takes to retake it. If you don’t pass, you’ll have to wait for the next testing window, delaying your ability to start working as a licensed PT. Consider whether it’s worth the risk of adding another three months to your timeline.

Your Practice Exam Trends

Are your scores trending upward, or are they stagnating? If you’re improving steadily, it might be a sign you’re on the right track and could pull off a pass. But if your scores are flat or dropping, it’s a signal to reevaluate your readiness.

 

Why It’s Okay to Take the NPTE Even If You’re Not 100% Ready

If you’re close to passing and can afford it financially, taking the NPTE might be worth it for the experience. Failing once doesn’t mean you’ve blown your chances of becoming a PT. Remember, you have six attempts to pass, so one failure isn’t the end of the world.

Sometimes, just sitting for the test can give you insights into what to expect, helping you refine your study plan for next time. Plus, if you’re lucky and the questions align with your strengths, you might even pass.

 

The Risks of Taking the NPTE If You’re Not Ready

While taking the test now has its advantages, there are risks:

• Financial Cost: Retaking the test isn’t cheap, and it can add up quickly.
• Emotional Toll: Failing the NPTE can dent your confidence and make it harder to approach the next attempt with a positive mindset.
• Delays: If you fail, you’ll need to wait for the next testing window, pushing your timeline back.

 

My Thoughts

Finances should be the top consideration in your decision. If money is tight, it’s better to wait until you’re more prepared. But if finances aren’t a concern, take the chance! There’s always the possibility you’ll pass.

The bigger question you need to ask yourself is why you’re in this situation. Most of the time, it’s not about how much time you’ve spent studying but how you’ve been studying. If you’ve been focused on memorizing material, you need to change this immediately and learn to study smarter for the exam.