The path to a rewarding nursing career often comes with significant financial considerations. For aspiring international nurses, this can seem like a daunting hurdle. However, what if we told you that the dream of studying nursing abroad, without the burden of tuition fees and living expenses, is entirely within reach? In 2025/2026, numerous institutions and organizations are offering fully funded nursing scholarships specifically designed to empower global talent.
This blog post will explore these incredible opportunities, guiding you through what “fully funded” truly means, where to find these coveted scholarships, and how to position yourself as a strong candidate. Get ready to turn your aspirations into a tangible reality – your journey to becoming a globally recognized nurse, without the financial stress, starts here.
Nursing Scholarships for International Students in 2025/2026
- BridgeWay Nursing Scholarship Program (USA):
- Focus: Master’s in Nursing (MSN) programs in the USA, with specializations like Adult Gerontology, Clinical Nurse Leader, Nurse Educator, and more.
- Coverage: Full tuition, paid practical training (Curricular Practical Training – CPT), relocation support, and mentorship.
- Eligibility Highlights: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) with a minimum GPA of 2.5, valid RN license, 1-2 years of professional nursing experience (preferably recent), and English language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo).
- Note: This program is specifically designed to address the needs of international nurses looking to advance their careers in the USA.
- DAAD Scholarship (Germany):
- Focus: Various Master’s and PhD programs across different disciplines, including nursing. Germany is a popular destination for international students due to its high-quality education and many tuition-free public universities.
- Coverage: Typically includes tuition fees (if applicable), monthly stipend, health insurance, and travel allowance.
- Eligibility Highlights: Strong academic record, proof of English or German language proficiency, and specific requirements depending on the chosen program and university.
- Note: While not exclusively for nursing, many German universities offer excellent nursing programs, and DAAD is a prime source for comprehensive funding.
- Chevening Scholarships (UK):
- Focus: Master’s degrees in various fields, including healthcare and nursing, at leading UK universities.
- Coverage: Full tuition fees, a monthly living stipend, travel costs, and visa costs.
- Eligibility Highlights: Strong academic background, at least two years of work experience, leadership potential, and commitment to contributing to their home country’s development.
- Note: Chevening is highly prestigious and competitive, seeking future leaders.
- Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (Various Countries):
- Focus: Postgraduate studies (Master’s and PhD) in fields relevant to the development of specific countries where the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) operates. Nursing and healthcare are often priority areas.
- Coverage: Half grant and half loan, covering tuition fees and living expenses.
- Eligibility Highlights: Excellent academic records, genuine financial need, strong leadership potential, and relevance of studies to development. Preference is given to young professionals under 30.
- Note: Applicants must be from specific developing countries where AKF has programs.
- Monash University Graduate Research Scholarships (Australia):
- Focus: Doctoral research studies, which can include nursing-related research.
- Coverage: Full tuition fees and a living stipend.
- Eligibility Highlights: Strong academic performance, research proposal, and meeting the university’s admission criteria for doctoral programs.
- Note: While not exclusively for nursing, Monash is a top-ranked university with strong health sciences programs.
- University of West London International Ambassador Scholarships (UK):
- Focus: Undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, with some specific awards for the College of Nursing, Midwifery and Healthcare.
- Coverage: Varies, but some specific awards like the William Brake Scholarships (up to £5,000) and the Salim Janmohamed Scholarship (£5,000) offer substantial support, and some postgraduate research positions offer full tuition waiver and a stipend.
- Eligibility Highlights: Strong academic performance and offer of admission to a UWL program. Specific scholarships may have additional criteria.
- Note: Applications for 2025/2026 academic year generally open in September 2025.
- University College Cork (UCC) School of Nursing and Midwifery International Scholarships (Ireland):
- Focus: BSc Nursing Studies (Top-Up Degree) and MSc (Non-EU) Nursing programs.
- Coverage: Tuition fee scholarships (not paid directly to students).
- Eligibility Highlights: Hold an offer for a full-time program at UCC’s School of Nursing and Midwifery, classed as a non-EU (International) student, and be self-funding (initially, then the scholarship applies).
- Note: This is a promising option for those considering Ireland for nursing studies.
- Nurse Corps Scholarship Program (USA):
- Focus: Various nursing programs (diploma, associate, baccalaureate, graduate) in the USA.
- Coverage: Full tuition, fees, other educational costs, and a monthly living stipend.
- Eligibility Highlights: Acceptance or enrollment in an accredited nursing program. Recipients must commit to working in a Critical Shortage Facility after graduation.
- Note: This program is for those willing to serve in underserved areas upon completion of their studies.
- University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) Laurette Kirstein Scholarship for International Students (USA):
- Focus: Full-time undergraduate, graduate, or professional degrees in any field, including nursing.
- Coverage: $5,000 (may not be fully funded, but significant support).
- Eligibility Highlights: Current international UIC student, minimum cumulative 3.5 GPA at UIC.
- Note: While not explicitly “fully funded,” it provides substantial financial aid and can be combined with other funding sources.
- Eastern Tennessee State University International Merit Scholarship (USA):
- Focus: Any degree, including nursing.
- Coverage: Up to $9,000.
- Eligibility Highlights: International student (F-1 or J-1 visa) with a record of academic achievement comparable to a 3.0 GPA.
- Note: This is a merit-based scholarship that can significantly reduce the financial burden.
General Eligibility Criteria
While specific requirements vary, common eligibility criteria for fully funded nursing scholarships include:
- Academic Excellence: A strong academic record (high GPA, good grades in relevant subjects).
- English Language Proficiency: Demonstrated through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
- Admission Offer: Often, you need to secure an offer of admission from a university before applying for scholarships.
- Statement of Purpose/Essay: A compelling essay outlining your passion for nursing, career goals, and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.
- Letters of Recommendation: Strong recommendations from academic or professional referees.
- Financial Need: Some scholarships prioritize applicants who can demonstrate genuine financial need.
- Relevant Experience: For postgraduate scholarships, prior nursing experience may be required.
Conclusion
These scholarships represent incredible opportunities to pursue world-class education in leading institutions across various countries, from the US to the UK, Germany, and Australia. They are a testament to the global demand for skilled nursing professionals and the commitment of organizations and universities to foster diverse talent in the healthcare sector.
While the application process for these highly sought-after scholarships can be competitive, remember that thorough research, meticulous preparation, and a compelling articulation of your passion for nursing can significantly enhance your chances.