Nursing Postgraduate Students` Experience of Preparing for Nursing Postgraduate Entrance Exam

Introduction: Increased volunteers for postgraduate education have expanded competition. It has been a serious challenge for both participants and educational managers to be prepared for postgraduate entrance exam. This study aims to explain the process of preparing for postgraduate entrance exam among nursing postgraduate students based on expectancy theory. Methods: This study used directed qualitative content analysis based on expectation theory by semi- structured interviews. Ten participants among nursing postgraduate students were selected by purposeful sampling. Data analysis was conducted by content analysis. Results: After data analysis, four themes have emerged include self-efficacy, precept, firm effort and self-esteem. In directed approach, self-efficacy and self-esteem were related to expectancy. As well, valence and firm effort and counseling were related to instrumentality. “Self” was the most central concept in data analysis related to educational achievement. Conclusion: Necessity for reaching to the appropriate level of performance in nursing postgraduate entrance exam requires broad instruction for diverse skills critical for enhancing “Self” in student. Therefore student-centered learning approaches are recommended.