PRC: Retakers Can Still Become Topnotchers in Board Exams — Resolution No. 1814 Explained

MANILA, Philippines – The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) has officially clarified under Resolution No. 1814, Series of 2024, titled “Revised Guidelines on the Release and Publication of the Results of Top-Ranked Examinees and Schools in the Board Licensure Examinations,” that repeaters or retakers of licensure examinations are still eligible to become topnotchers, provided they meet all requirements.

This updated guideline addresses long-standing confusion among board exam takers and aspiring professionals regarding eligibility for top rankings.

Can a Repeater Become a Topnotcher?

Yes. According to the PRC:

“A repeater in the board examination who places in the top ranks shall be eligible for listing as a top-ranked examinee, provided that the examination is complete and not a removal.”

This means that even if you previously failed a board exam, you can still rank in the Top 10, as long as you take the complete examination (not a removal or partial exam) and meet all required conditions.

Key Guidelines on Top-Ranked Examinees

Under PRC Resolution No. 1814, the following rules apply:

A. The rank, name, alma mater, and general average of top-ranked examinees shall be included in the official release of board exam results, to be published on the PRC website (via ICTS) and official PRC social media platforms (via PIMRU).

B. Rankings shall cover the Top 10 examinees, and ties are allowed. To qualify, there must be at least 50 successful examinees, each with a minimum general average of 80%.

C. The Professional Regulatory Boards (PRBs) may limit the number of topnotchers (e.g., Top 3 only) if:

• Fewer than 10 examinees reach the 80% average, or
• The total number of passers is less than 50.

D. PRBs may choose not to publish topnotchers for non-baccalaureate licensure exams, subject to approval.

E. A repeater who ranks in the Top 10 is qualified to be listed as a topnotcher, provided the exam taken is complete and not a removal.

F. Examinees found violating exam rules may be excluded from the list, with a notation “NAME WITHHELD.” If cleared, their results and ranking may later be released through a PRB resolution.

What This Means for Board Exam Retakers

This clarification reinforces that:

• Past failures do not disqualify you from becoming a topnotcher.
• All examinees have an equal opportunity based on current performance.
• Excellence is measured by your latest board exam results.

Retaker who topped the Board Exam

Notably, a retaker who took the Physician Licensure Examination (PLE) three times, Erwin Ken Angcual Parchaso, emerged as the Top 1 in the March 2026 PLE. His inspiring journey proves that perseverance can lead to success.

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