Preadmission predictors for first semester course success in a baccalaureate nursing program

Identifying students' who are able to complete a rigorous course of study, graduate on time, and pass the NCLEX-RN© is a principle role of nursing program admissions teams.

To examine which preadmission factors predict students' success in the first semester of a baccalaureate nursing program.

Undergraduate students' data from the academic years 2013 to 2017 were analyzed (N = 927). Bivariate and multiple regression analyses were used to examine potential predictors of first semester course success, and scores on standardized NCLEX preparation exams.

Preadmission cumulative GPA (OR = 3.82, 95% CI = 1.43-10.16) and prerequisite science GPA (OR = 2.57, 95% CI = 1.14-5.78) predicted success in the pathopharmacology course. Preadmission cumulative GPA (OR = 6.53, 95% CI = 1.59-26.85) and TEAS composite score (OR = 1.15, 95% CI = 1.09-1.22) predicted success in the health assessment course. Preadmission cumulative GPA (OR = 3.42, 95% CI = 1.18-9.92) and TEAS composite score (OR = 1.05, 95% CI = 1.01-1.10) predicted success in the foundations course. Higher preadmission cumulative GPA (B = 14.19, p < 0.01), prerequisite science GPA (B = 12.62, p < 0.01), and TEAS composite score (B = 0.48, p < 0.01) predicted a higher pathopharmacology-KAPLAN, Inc. test scores. Higher preadmission cumulative GPA (B = 62.52, p < 0.01), prerequisite science GPA (B = 61.18, p < 0.01), and TEAS composite score (B = 4.76, p < 0.01) predicted a higher fundamentals-HESI test scores.

Preadmission cumulative GPA, prerequisite science GPA, and TEAS composite score were significant predictors of success in first semester courses and performance on standardized tests.