Here are some answers to frequently asked questions:
What can I do differently next time?
This brochure is for candidates preparing to re-write the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination (CPNRE).
What can I do differently next time? 
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Could a mistake have been made in marking my exam?
Your exam is marked by a computerized scanning program, which is a highly accurate method. The answer sheets
of candidates with a “borderline” result—those with a total number of correct answers close
to the pass mark—are remarked by hand to confirm the number of correct answers.
Several additional quality control measures are taken throughout the marking process to ensure that answer
sheets were completed correctly and that the correct result is assigned to each candidate.
Candidates who do not pass can request that their answer sheets be remarked. There is a fee
for this service. To have your answer sheet remarked, please contact the
Regulatory Authority in your province or territory.
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Why is my exam result indicated as PASS or FAIL?
The exam is designed to determine whether candidates possess the competencies
(knowledge, abilities, skills, attitudes and judgments) required of an entry-level practical nurse to practise safely and effectively. The purpose of the CPNRE is to separate candidates who meet
the required standard (pass) from those who do not (fail).
The exam is marked by a computer which tallies the total number of correct answers
obtained by the candidate, then compares this number with the number of correct answers
needed to meet the pass mark. If your total number of correct answers is equal to or higher than the pass mark, then the computer will assign you a pass result. However, if your total
number of correct answers is lower than the pass mark, the computer will assign you a fail result.
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Who do I contact if I have questions about my exam result?
If you have any questions or concerns about your exam result, please contact the
Regulatory Authority in your province
or territory.
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My exam result was “FAIL”. Can I appeal my result?
Yes, there is an appeals process. To file an appeal, you must contact the
Regulatory Authority in your province or territory.
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