Predicting Nursing Program Success for Veterans: Examining the Importance of TEAS and Pre-Admit Science GPA

Background: Support for veterans in nursing education programs is a priority in universities across the U.S. While studies have examined the relationship between admission criteria and successful nursing program outcomes, minimal data are available regarding predictors of veteran student success. Methods: Success for veterans in one university BSN nursing program was examined, as measured by three outcomes: Nursing program graduation GPA, graduation rate, and NCLEX-RN pass rate, as predicted by two admission criteria: GPA and TEAS. Results: Among veteran students, pre-admit science GPAs at or above the median score (3.41) predicted higher nursing program graduation GPA, but did not predict graduation rates or NCLEX-RN pass rates. TEAS scores were not predictive of nursing program graduation GPA, graduation rates or NCLEX-RN pass rates. In comparison, veteran and non-veteran nursing students' graduation rates and NCLEX-RN pass rates were similar; with average nursing program graduation GPAs slightly lower for veterans. Veterans contributed gender, age, and cultural diversity to the nursing student body. When NCLEX-RN exam retakes are included, 100% of all veteran participants were successful, a possible indicator of resilience and work ethic. Conclusion: Further discussion is indicated regarding nursing program admission criteria, and factors for success of veterans in nursing programs.