Differences in Test Anxiety Scores Among Baccalaureate Nursing Students and Nonnursing Students

Test-taking is a prominent cause of anxiety for nursing students. Test anxiety may interfere with academic performance, program completion, and successful transition to practice. Prior research suggests that nursing students are more test-anxious than other students, yet this concept is not well studied.

This study examined differences between test anxiety in nursing and nonnursing students while comparing current trends related to academic level and gender.

Using a cross-sectional design, participants completed the Test Anxiety Inventory as a measure of perceived test anxiety.

Minimal differences in scores based on major and academic level were found. Differences based on gender were noted with females reporting higher levels of test anxiety.

Findings may help nurse educators better understand test anxiety and guide the implementation of supportive strategies to improve learning outcomes.