Understanding NPTE Pass Rates: What They Mean and How Stanbridge University Stands Out

Understanding NPTE Pass Rates: What They Mean and How Stanbridge University Stands Out
Hands-on anatomy lab instruction supports NPTE preparation and contributes to the strong NPTE pass rates at Stanbridge University.

If you are exploring a future as a Physical Therapist Assistant, understanding the NPTE pass rate of each school is an important step in choosing the right program. The National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) is required for licensure and plays a central role in beginning a career in physical therapy. A school’s NPTE pass rate reflects how effectively it prepares students to meet this milestone.

Strong NPTE pass rates often point to academic quality, hands-on training, and meaningful student support. From enrollment through licensure preparation, the Physical Therapist Assistant program at Stanbridge University is designed to help students succeed. Here’s what NPTE pass rates mean, how to find them, and why these metrics matter when selecting a program.

What Is the NPTE Exam?

The National Physical Therapist Assistant Examination (NPTE) is a standardized licensure exam required for individuals seeking to become licensed Physical Therapist Assistants in the United States. Administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT), the NPTE evaluates whether candidates are qualified to provide safe, effective care in clinical settings.

The exam focuses on decision-making and foundational patient care principles, ensuring that graduates are prepared to meet professional standards. As a critical step toward licensure, the NPTE marks the transition from education to professional practice and plays a central role in a student’s path to becoming a licensed PTA.

CAPTE Accreditation Standards for PTA Programs

All Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) programs in the United States must be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). CAPTE establishes national standards for curriculum quality, clinical training, faculty qualifications, and student learning outcomes. These CAPTE accreditation standards ensure that PTA programs provide consistent, high-quality education and that outcomes like NPTE pass rates are based on regulated, measurable criteria.

Stanbridge University’s accredited PTA program is designed to meet and uphold these national expectations. The curriculum combines classroom instruction, immersive simulation-based lab training, and supervised clinical experiences to help students develop the clinical judgment and technical skills required for effective patient care.

As part of its commitment to continuous improvement and transparency, Stanbridge University tracks and evaluates key performance indicators such as NPTE pass rates and graduate employment outcomes. These metrics are reviewed regularly and shared in alignment with CAPTE guidelines. Faculty members contribute professional expertise and provide structured academic support to guide students from enrollment through licensure preparation.

What Are NPTE Pass Rates?

An NPTE for PTA Licensure Pass Rate refers to the percentage of graduates from a Physical Therapist Assistant program who successfully pass the NPTE, which is required to begin practice. These rates are typically reported in two categories. The first-time pass rate reflects the number of students who pass the exam on their initial attempt. The ultimate pass rate includes all students who eventually pass, even if they needed more than one attempt.

These outcomes are a key measure of a program’s effectiveness. A high first-time pass rate suggests that students are receiving strong academic preparation, consistent support, and timely exposure to the material needed to meet licensing requirements after graduation. The ultimate pass rate also matters, as it reflects how well a school continues to support students who may need additional time or resources. Programs with strong ultimate pass rates often provide extended guidance, tutoring, and review tools that help all graduates reach licensure.

When reviewing PTA programs, examining both first-time and ultimate pass rates can provide meaningful insight into the quality of instruction, the level of student support, and how thoroughly the curriculum prepares students for licensure. Choosing a school with strong NPTE exam pass rates may improve your chances of becoming licensed efficiently and starting your career with confidence.

How to Access NPTE Pass Rates

To view official NPTE for PTA Licensure Pass Rate data, visit the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy website. The site provides public access to school-specific outcomes, including both first-time and ultimate pass rates. You can also view the two-year school-specific NPTE pass rate report for the most recent comparative data for schools in California. Reviewing this information helps with comparing programs and making informed choices about PTA education.

Admissions representatives can also share the most recent NPTE exam pass rate data during program information sessions or campus tours. The insight is useful for understanding program outcomes and evaluating how different schools prepare students for licensure.

NPTE Exam Preparation at Stanbridge University

Stanbridge University offers a structured approach to NPTE exam readiness that begins early in the Physical Therapist Assistant program. Through a series of cumulative assessments starting in term two, students regularly review core concepts and build academic confidence across multiple terms. By the later stages of the program, coursework is focused on reinforcing clinical knowledge and exam preparation through guided review, practice exams, and skills-based learning in immersive classroom settings.

In the final terms, students participate in a dedicated NPTE preparation course that emphasizes content review, exam strategies, and overall licensure readiness. Preparation materials and support resources are included in tuition, allowing students to access essential tools without additional cost. The process reflects Stanbridge University’s commitment to supporting students from the classroom through to successful licensure.

Stanbridge University’s NPTE Exam Pass Rate

In 2023-2024, Stanbridge University reported a 98.60% first-time NPTE pass rate and a 100% ultimate pass rate for the Physical Therapist Assistant program at the Orange County campus.

For the Los Angeles campus in 2023-2024, the program achieved a 92.1% first-time NPTE pass rate and a 100% ultimate pass rate.

The data covers a two-year average of graduate outcomes as reported to the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.¹

Why This Matters

Evaluating NPTE for PTA Licensure Pass Rate is essential when selecting a program. These results demonstrate how well students perform on the licensure exam, and also speak to the quality of instruction, clinical preparation, and student resources. Stanbridge University’s consistent pass rates are a testament to the strength of our PTA program and the success of our graduates.

Explore Stanbridge University’s PTA Program

Learn more about our accredited program, innovative learning environments, and how we prepare students for rewarding careers in physical therapy.

Learn more about the Stanbridge University PTA program and our NPTE pass rate performance.

¹NPTE for PTA Ultimate and First Time Pass Rate for graduates, 2023/2024, Orange County and Los Angeles campuses; The Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy; Basic Pass Rate Report. As viewed on April 25, 2025.