EPPP Pass Rate & Methodology
Candidates who used PassEPPP, January 1, 2019 – December 31, 2024
What this number means
Of the 1,287 candidates who used the PassEPPP Complete Preparation Package (or equivalent tutoring from PassEPPP and its staff) and completed at least 85% of the program between 2019 and 2024, 1,212 passed the EPPP — a 94.2% pass rate. Among candidates taking the exam for the first time after completing the program, the pass rate was 92.8% (945 of 1,018).
For context, the national first-time pass rate for doctoral-level candidates is approximately 80%in a typical year, according to data published by the ASPPB (the body that administers the EPPP). Comparing like with like — first-time takers to first-time takers — PassEPPP candidates passed at 92.8% versus the ~80% national benchmark.
Methodology
Sample
- Total candidates analyzed: 1,287
- Included: candidates who purchased the PassEPPP Complete Preparation Package (or equivalent PassEPPP tutoring) and completed at least 85% of the program modules
- Excluded: candidates who purchased but never activated their account, or completed less than 85% of the content
Timeframe
- Data collection: January 1, 2019 – December 31, 2024
- Follow-up window: up to 12 months after program completion, to account for exam-scheduling variation
Definition of “pass”
- A scaled score of 500 or higher on the EPPP
- Primary analysis counts first-time exam attempts after program completion
- Repeat attempts are tracked separately (see below)
Data sources
- Candidate self-reported results via a post-examination survey
- Verified score reports submitted by candidates, where available
- Follow-up communication to confirm self-reported results
Pass rate by group
| Group | Pass rate | Candidates |
|---|---|---|
| First-time test takers | 92.8% | 945 of 1,018 |
| Repeat test takers | 97.8% | 267 of 269 |
| International candidates | 91.3% | 84 of 92 |
By preparation duration
| Time in program | Pass rate | Candidates |
|---|---|---|
| 1–3 months | 89.1% | 412 of 463 |
| 3–6 months | 96.4% | 542 of 563 |
| 6+ months | 98.2% | 258 of 261 |
Limitations
We believe in showing our work, including where it's imperfect:
- These outcomes are primarily self-reported. For 12.3% of candidates, results could not be independently verified against an official score report.
- The sample includes only candidates who completed at least 85% of the program. Results may not generalize to people who buy the program but don't work through the majority of it.
- This is PassEPPP's own internal analysis; it has not been independently audited by a third party.
Questions about how we calculate this? Start a free trial or reach out to our team — we're happy to walk through it.