In progress...
& Advocacy
My colleagues and I have been gathering data on EPPP pass rates for the state of California and we presented our data at the National Multicultural Conference and Summit in January 2024. Our plan is to gather nationwide data. If you would like to join these efforts, please connect with us!
In the meantime, you can look at the data from CA at the link below. Here is a brief synopsis.
CA EPPP Pass rates:
2018: 53.20%
2019: 47.09%
2020: 46.89%
2021: 41.74%
2022: 38.89%
2023: 39.22% (35.30% was the passing rate reported on BOP website in January 2024)
2024: 38.46%
2025: pending
Our question is three-fold: why are 60% of applicants failing this exam, particularly BIPOCs; what happened in 2019 that significantly shifted the average passing rates; and how does this justify the implementation of EPPP-2?
Most concerning is how this affects the needs of the community in accessing mental health treatment when qualified providers are not able to practice due to not being able to pass the EPPP exam.
Follow the money. $$$
I passed on my 5th attempt (423, 480, 490, 480, 511). Contrary to some research findings on who is likely/not likely to pass, I earned a Ph.D. from an APA-accredited program and completed an APA-accredited internship. Additionally, I took the EPPP for the first time within two years of graduating.
During this time, between 2018-2021 there were an average of 1,544.5 yearly applicants, which equates to an average of $1.07M in just California alone. This calculation does not include rescheduling fees and other EPPP related costs (e.g., study material, licensing board fees, coaches/tutors, loss of income, etc.).
Now multiply that by 49 states, US territories, and Canada.
Is the EPPP about "protecting the public" or is it more about profit? How much revenue will be made with the implementation of EPPP-2?
What does the research say? Here are the references I've gathered to date. If you have a reference that I have not included, please send it my way!
If you are a multiple test-taker, you can and WILL pass this exam. The problem is that we just don't know when. But if you have the GANAS like me, you won't give up, and you will overcome the licensing barriers! You are an amazing clinician despite what an EPPP score might make you believe.