Examination Scoring and Results
How scoring works
The EE is criterion-referenced, not norm-referenced. A candidate's result depends on whether their performance meets a predefined standard, not on how others perform. The passing standard is set by a panel of subject-matter experts using a standard-setting method; it is not a fixed percentage such as 60%. Each item is scored right or wrong; there is no partial credit and no negative marking.
Results
Results are reported as pass or fail. PEBC does not release a numeric percentage or a diagnostic breakdown of missed content; the result is a decision, not a grade. A pass on the EE is one eligibility step toward the Qualifying Exam and licensure; it is not a licence to practise. Candidates who fail may reattempt according to PEBC's current retake policy, which is published in the candidate guide.
Worked example
Suppose a candidate answers 118 of 200 items correctly. Is that a pass? You cannot tell from the raw count. The passing standard is applied to the candidate's total score, and the standard is set by expert judgement of item difficulty. A raw score of 59% could pass or fail depending on the standard and the item set. The correct reasoning is: convert to the reported scale, compare with the standard, and do not assume a percentage cut-off.
Traps
- Assuming 60% or 70% is the pass mark.
- Expecting a subsection score report; the EE reports pass/fail.
- Confusing the EE with the Qualifying Exam MCQ or OSCE.
- Treating a fail as a content-only problem; item interpretation and time management also matter.
- Believing a pass is a licence; licensure requires the QE and provincial registration.