This study was conducted to investigate the factors affecting the social anxiety in nursing students. A total of 227 nursing students participated in the study. Data were analyzed by frequencies, t-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficient, and multiple stepwise regression with SPSS WIN 18.0. The mean scores for problem solving ability and social anxiety were at the intermediate level. Problem solving ability negatively correlated with social anxiety. The significant predictors of social anxiety included cognitive reaction within the seven problem solving ability subscales and perceived interpersonal relationship. The regression model explained 22.6% of social anxiety. As a result, to decrease social anxiety in nursing students, nursing educators should develop educational intervention programs to change cognitive distortions presented in unfamiliar social situations and improve interpersonal relationships ability.