Background It is necessary to evaluate the effects of competency-based training (CBT) model in the clinical training of new nurses, to provide insights to the management of nurses. Methods We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), China Science and Technology Journal Database, Wanfang and Weipu Databases for the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the application effect of CBT in new nurse training up to December 15, 2021. Two investigators independently screened the literature, extracted the data and evaluated the quality of the literatures. RevMan 5.3 software was used for meta-analysis. Results A total of 7 RCTs involving 639 new nurses were included. Meta-analyses indicated that CBT improved the ability of clinical nursing care [SMD = 1.52, 95%CI (0.13 similar to 2.90), P = 0.03], critical thinking and innovation[SMD = 0.69, 95%CI (0.43 similar to 0.95), P<0.001], interpersonal communication[SMD = 0.74, 95%CI (0.51 similar to 0.97), P<0.001], professional construction and development[SMD = 1.92, 95%CI (1.41 similar to 2.42), P<0.001], level of comprehensive knowledge[SMD = 1.20, 95%CI (0.63 similar to 1.76), P<0.001] and level of good personal traits[SMD = 1.89, 95%CI (1.27 similar to 2.50), P<0.001].The results of Egger regression tests indicated that there were no statistical biases amongst the synthesized outcomes (all P>0.05). Conclusions CBT is beneficial for improving the competency of newly recruited nurses. More RCTs from different population and regions are needed to further elucidate the role of CBT in nurse management.