Competency-based education (CBE) stands out at a global level as the best educational practice. Indeed, CBE is supposed to improve the quality of care provided by newly graduated nurses. Yet, there is a dearth of knowledge in nursing literature regarding the definition of the concept of CBE. CBE is implemented differently in each organization, even within the same discipline in a single country. What does CBE mean in nursing education? Aim: to clarify the meaning of the concept of CBE, undertaking a literature review in order to propose a definition. Method: Wilson’s concept analysis method framed our literature review that used two databases: CINAHL and ERIC. Findings: We identified CBE to be a multidimensional concept clustering three dimensions: learning, teaching, and assessment. Conclusion: nurse educators are accountable for providing society with newly graduated performants who are adequately prepared and competent in carrying out their professional roles. Schools should promote the visibility and the transparency of the means they are using to accomplish their educational activities. This first attempt to understand the concept of CBE opens a debate concerning further development and clarification of the concept. This first description of the concept of CBE is a step toward its identification and assessment.