Jolyna is studying nursing at Medina College, with about two and a half years to go until graduation. After completing her studies, she will also need to pass the national licensure examination before she can work as a nurse.

Her classes started in the afternoon today, so she left home at 12:30 p.m. The other day she attended an online class from home, but today she was heading to campus.

She said she would be home around 6 p.m., and went by car today. Day by day, she is working toward graduation and, beyond that, passing the nursing licensure examination.

Becoming a Nurse in the Philippines

In the Philippines, graduating from a nursing program does not automatically qualify someone to work as a nurse. Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements, including holding a bachelor's degree in nursing, and pass the Nurses Licensure Examination (NLE), administered under the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).

An Exam That Tests Broad Nursing Knowledge and Judgment

According to the PRC's examination program, the exam covers five areas: Nursing Practice I through V. These include community and family nursing; maternal care and human growth and development; care for people with illnesses or undergoing surgery; mental health care; and emergency and critical care. Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, nutrition, and microbiology is also integrated into these areas.

The exam calls for more than memorizing terminology. Candidates need to understand patients' conditions and apply their knowledge to provide safe, appropriate nursing care. Each subject Jolyna studies at college contributes to her preparation for the exam and her future work as a nurse.

Passing Requirements and Registration

Under the Philippine Nursing Act of 2002 (Republic Act No. 9173), candidates must achieve an overall average rating of at least 75%, with no subject rating below 60%, to pass. Candidates whose overall average is at least 75% but who score below 60% in a subject must retake that subject. After passing the examination, successful candidates must also complete the professional oath and registration requirements before entering nursing practice.

For Jolyna, the immediate goal is to build a solid foundation through her studies and complete her degree. I look forward to supporting her as she works toward passing the licensure examination and beginning her career as a nurse.

References: PRC Nurses Licensure Examination Program (2025, PDF; exam outline on pages 4-5); Philippine Nursing Act, RA 9173 (Sections 12-17). The examination information is based on sources available as of October 26, 2026.