For the past 3 years, the pass rate of the corps has been 100%. And it is almost garenteed to continue this year as well. 13 National Star certified cadets(10 since 3 are aged out), and quite a few are eligible next year.
The PT test was the easiest part of the whole NSCE IMO. With a Bronze minimum, people can usually manage it. I mean, on of the people who did NSCE with me had some pretty bad back problems and still managed to get through it. Although I did get Gold, I know many people didn't aspire towards it(sadly). Remember, the higher your level on the ACFT, the better your overall grade.
The Drill lecture is the hardest thing on the entire NSCE. Its because its very formal, and there is really only 1 way to do it. If you don't do it exactly in that forumula, you lose marks, sometimes critical marks. I'd advise people to try and get their hands on a Drill mutual assesment sheet. If you follow that and learn to do your drill lecture according to it, you will get a much higher mark. Work on your voice. Also, remember to ask if there is any questions after each movement, and to demonstrate from different angles.
The Classroom lecture is about moderate. Try to get your hands on a Classroom mutual assesment sheet. Then use it to figure out a way to get the highest mark from it.
The map and compass is pretty basic. The elevation and the measuring along a route are the place where a lot of people mess up by not being careful enough.
Knots are just a skill that needs practicing.
For the record, all I wanted for NSCE was to pass. I wasn't determined to get a decent mark, it just happened.