Today's admission selection criteria require refinement with the intention of fostering academic progression for students entering nurse anesthesia programs (Reese, 2002).With the escalating cost of graduate education coupled with the current economic crisis, efforts by educational leaders to minimize attrition remains pivotal (Andrews, Johansson, Chinworth, & Akroyd, 2006). Selecting viable candidates consistent with current data-driven evidence offers the greatest potential for academic success for nurse anesthesia students. Yet, research examining preadmission variables and academic progression for nurse anesthesia students remains nonexistent. The purpose of the quantitative correlational study was to determine if a relationship existed between admission criteria (Grade Point Average, Science Grade Point Average, Graduate Record Exam scores, and Critical Care Experience) and academic progression (current academic status and Grade Point Average). Key findings revealed that statistically significant relationships appear to exist between the admission criteria and academic progression. Findings also indicated that a combination of the independent variables, specifically the GPA and SGPA, might predict academic progression. Further research that includes examination of cognitive and non-cognitive admission criteria may offer greater evidence predicting academic progression for nurse anesthesia students. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]