Best student selection process?

[ADPIE10]

I've noticed that schools have different selection processes to determine who will be admitted into nursing programs because there are too few openings to accommodate all that apply. So far I've heard of a lottery system, a lottery system with a minimum point requirement and TEAS score, and also I've heard of straight competitive based systems.

What do you think is the most fair and what do you think is the best for the nursing profession?

I've often thought that it must be very hard to sit on a selection committee.

[missjennmb]

I didn't read all the responses, but this is what my school does.

No waiting list, period.

You take the PAX test, and the first 20 to get the required grade get in (I think its 80%). If more than 20 pass it, then the highest get in. If there are not 20 who pass on the first round (they test 20 at a time) then they give the test again, rinse/repeat.

The reason that I like this method is because it rewards those that put in the effort to prepare for the test. I don't think anyone who did not study for the test actually got in. I spent 2 weeks straight studying almost all day every day and knew my prep book cover to cover.

I believe there is a short waiting list for the year in case anyone fails to meet their requirements prior to starting, but once the school year starts the list is dumped and you have to reapply the next year.

IMO lotto is terrible because it does not reward those who prepared and showed up first and put forth the effort any more than someone who just wandered in when it was convenient for them.

While test taking may not make you a "good" nurse, it does make you more likely to pass the NCLEX, and thats what nursing school is really all about anyways.

Another thing that would not be a bad idea, would be to have mandatory nurse shadowing for a day, as part of the admission practice. That is a requirement for respiratory therapy students that do clinicals at my hospital and they always seem to walk away with a very different outlook on the profession than when they came in. I don't know if it makes them change their mind, but it definitely gives them a much closer look at the reality of the situation.