Selection tests and their predictive value in university nursing students' success in the first year of study.

Background: Academic performance factors, such as school-leaving grades and other academic indicators for selection, play a significant role in student success. The study aimed to determine the best predictors of academic success in the first year of study for nursing studies at a South African university using three National Benchmark Test (NBT) domains and four National Senior Certificate (NSC) subjects.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of the admission data of first-time students (n = 317), enrolled on the Bachelor of Nursing between 2012 and 2018.

Investigating the risk factors for academic difficulties in the medical programme at a South African university.

Background: The National Benchmark Test (NBT) that determines academic readiness is widely used by Faculties as an additional measure to select students for the study of medicine. Despite this, many students continue to experience academic challenges that culminate in delayed graduation and sometimes academic exclusion or discontinuation of studies.

Aim: This study aimed to understand academic and non-academic variables linked with academic difficulties in the first three years of medical education.

Predictive validity of the National Benchmark Test and National Senior Certificate for the academic success of first-year medical students at one South African university.

Background: South African medical schools use the results of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examination for selecting students. Five of the nine medical schools also use the National Benchmark Test (NBT). The University of the Witwatersrand weights the NSC and NBT results equally in the selection process.