Nursing remains one of the most in-demand and respected professions worldwide. As healthcare systems grow increasingly complex and global pandemics highlight the need for skilled medical staff, international students are turning to nursing programs in large numbers. However, pursuing a nursing degree abroad, particularly in countries like the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Australia, can be financially burdensome. That’s where nursing scholarships come in—offering a gateway to quality education, licensing preparation, and career advancement without the weight of financial strain.
In this comprehensive guide, we highlight the top 10 nursing scholarships for international students in 2025. These scholarships are curated for their competitive benefits, high funding value, and alignment with licensed nursing programs. Whether you’re pursuing a BSN, MSN, or a doctorate in nursing practice (DNP), this list offers actionable insights on where and how to apply.
Why Nursing Scholarships Are High-Value Opportunities
Nursing scholarships are not only a form of financial aid but also a tool for career acceleration. Due to high CPC (Cost Per Click) interest in the field, especially from NCLEX prep centers, medical universities, and nursing certification boards, nursing-related educational content is in high demand. These scholarships often come with perks such as:
- Full or partial tuition coverage
- Clinical internship placements
- Licensing exam fee coverage (e.g., NCLEX-RN)
- Travel and relocation stipends
- Opportunities for permanent residency or work placement in the host country
Criteria for Choosing Top Nursing Scholarships
To identify the best scholarships, we considered:
- Level of funding (full vs. partial)
- Eligibility for international students
- Affiliation with licensed nursing programs
- Host country job prospects for nurses
- Accessibility and competitiveness
Top 10 Nursing Scholarships for International Students
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
The Fulbright Program is one of the most prestigious scholarships globally. While not specific to nursing, it allows international students to pursue master’s or doctoral programs in the U.S., including MSN and DNP programs.
Key Benefits:
- Full tuition and living expenses
- Travel coverage and health insurance
- Opportunity to study at top U.S. nursing schools
Eligibility:
- Varies by country
- Requires a strong academic background and English proficiency
Application Deadline: Varies (typically February–October, country-specific)
Website: https://foreign.fulbrightonline.org
2. Commonwealth Shared Scholarships (UK)
Funded by the UK Department for Education and administered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, this program is ideal for students from low and middle-income countries pursuing postgraduate studies, including nursing.
Key Benefits:
- Full tuition, airfare, and monthly stipend
- Additional allowances for study-related costs
Eligibility:
- Must be a citizen of an eligible Commonwealth country
- Hold a first degree of at least upper second class
Application Deadline: December (annually)
Website: https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk
3. DAAD Scholarships for Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (Germany)
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers scholarships for graduate studies in fields including Public Health and Nursing Sciences.
Key Benefits:
- Monthly stipend of €934 (master’s), €1,200 (doctoral)
- Full tuition and travel expenses
- Health insurance coverage
Eligibility:
- At least two years of professional experience
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field
Application Deadline: Varies by course (usually Oct–Dec)
Website: https://www.daad.de
4. University of Toronto – Margaret McNamara Education Grants (Canada)
Specifically for women from developing countries, these grants support nursing and health science students pursuing graduate degrees.
Key Benefits:
- Up to $15,000 CAD
- Tailored mentorship and career guidance
Eligibility:
- Female students from developing countries
- Enrolled at an eligible Canadian institution
Application Deadline: January–February
Website: https://www.mmeg.org
5. Australia Awards Scholarships (Australia)
Funded by the Australian government, these scholarships support international students from Asia, Africa, and the Pacific to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate degrees, including nursing.
Key Benefits:
- Full tuition, return airfare, and establishment allowance
- Contribution to living expenses (CLE)
- Introductory academic program and health coverage
Eligibility:
- Varies by country
- Academic merit and leadership qualities
Application Deadline: April (annually)
Website: https://www.dfat.gov.au/people-to-people/australia-awards
6. New Zealand Government Scholarships (NZ)
These scholarships provide full support to students from select countries pursuing healthcare-related degrees.
Key Benefits:
- Full tuition and living allowance
- Establishment allowance and insurance
- Post-study work visa support
Eligibility:
- Citizens of eligible countries
- Undergraduate or postgraduate nursing programs
Application Deadline: February
Website: https://www.nzscholarships.govt.nz
7. Johnson & Johnson Global Nursing Scholarships (Multiple Countries)
In partnership with nursing schools and foundations, Johnson & Johnson funds nursing scholarships for students from underserved communities.
Key Benefits:
- Amounts vary depending on partnership institution
- Career development and mentorship
Eligibility:
- Demonstrated need and commitment to nursing
Application Deadline: Varies
Website: https://nursing.jnj.com
8. Canadian Nurses Foundation Scholarships (Canada)
Open to both domestic and international students studying at a Canadian nursing school, CNF offers over 50 awards annually.
Key Benefits:
- Awards range from $1,000 to $10,000 CAD
- Some awards prioritize BIPOC and international students
Eligibility:
- Enrolled in a licensed nursing program in Canada
- Academic merit and leadership
Application Deadline: Mid-February
Website: https://cnf-fiic.ca
9. Florence Nightingale Foundation Scholarships (UK)
Though primarily targeted at UK and EU nurses, select international scholarships are offered to mid-career professionals for postgraduate studies or leadership development.
Key Benefits:
- Up to £15,000 for tuition and leadership programs
- Networking and policy exposure
Eligibility:
- Registered nurses or midwives with leadership potential
Application Deadline: March–April
Website: https://florence-nightingale-foundation.org.uk
10. Emory University – Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing Scholarships (USA)
Emory offers merit-based and need-based scholarships for international students in BSN, MSN, and DNP programs.
Key Benefits:
- Scholarships up to 100% tuition
- NCLEX prep and clinical placement support
Eligibility:
- Admitted to Emory’s nursing programs
- Strong academic and professional background
Application Deadline: February–March
Website: https://nursing.emory.edu
How to Apply for Nursing Scholarships: Step-by-Step
1. Research Early
Begin your search at least 12–18 months in advance. Use official scholarship websites, university portals, and forums like The Student Room or Reddit.
2. Choose the Right Program
Make sure the nursing program is accredited and offers licensure pathways (e.g., NCLEX eligibility for the U.S.).
3. Prepare Documents
Most scholarship applications require:
- Academic transcripts
- Language proficiency tests (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose or personal essay
- Resume or CV
- Proof of enrollment or admission
4. Tailor Your Application
Customize your essay to reflect your commitment to nursing, your long-term goals, and how the scholarship will help achieve them.
5. Track Deadlines and Follow Up
Use a calendar to track all important dates. Confirm submissions with receipts or confirmation emails. Follow up on recommendation letters and admissions.
Tips to Maximize Your Chances
- Focus on Leadership: Most programs look for community involvement and leadership potential.
- Highlight Career Goals: Emphasize long-term objectives like becoming a nurse educator or working in public health.
- Proofread Thoroughly: Errors can discredit even the most qualified applicants.
- Network with Past Recipients: Connect via LinkedIn or university forums.
- Use Free Coaching Services: Platforms like EducationUSA or university counseling services can help refine your application.
FAQs
Can international students take the NCLEX in the U.S.?
Yes, international students who graduate from a recognized nursing school can apply for the NCLEX-RN, provided they meet state board requirements.
Are nursing scholarships renewable?
Some scholarships are one-time awards, while others are renewable annually based on academic performance.
Do these scholarships cover licensing exams?
Some scholarships (like Emory or J&J-sponsored ones) may include NCLEX support. Check with the provider for details.
Can I work while studying nursing abroad?
Yes, most countries allow part-time work for international students. However, clinical placements may limit work hours.
Conclusion
Nursing scholarships for international students offer more than just financial aid—they open doors to global healthcare careers, licensing pathways, and leadership opportunities. By targeting well-funded, high-impact scholarships from reputable institutions and governments, students can achieve their nursing goals without the weight of student debt.
In 2025, the competition will be fierce, but the opportunities are abundant. Start your preparation early, customize your applications, and aim high. With the right strategy, your dream of becoming a licensed nurse abroad can become a well-funded reality.
