The pass mark represents the performance expected of a minimally competent candidate.

The pass mark for each exam is established by using the professionally accepted and widely used Modified Angoff method, whereby SMEs set the standard for each question based on its difficulty. For more information on the Modified Angoff method and standard setting, see Appendix A: The Modified Angoff Method & Determining a Pass Mark.

The examination is computer administered and scored on the basis of the total number of correct answers; one point is allotted for each correct answer. It is not adjusted to a "Bell" curve. Passing or failing the examination does not depend on the scores of the other candidates but on how well the candidate did on the questions administered in relation to the standard set.