Nursing School In The Us: What International Students Should Know
Jul 29, 2019 | Blog, Nursing Diversity, Nursing Students
With their state-of-the-art medical technologies and outstanding nursing programs, the United States has long been one of the most desirable destinations for international nursing students to enroll. As an international nursing student studying in the U.S., youll have the opportunity to receive a top-notch education that provides hands-on experience under the guidance of world-class nurse faculty members.
But before you can begin learning from leading experts in the field, there are a few important things that all international nursing students should know. Below, you can find out the crucial skills you need before enrolling in a U.S. nursing school, and how to set yourself up for career success.
1. Strong English skills are a must.
One of the most frequently asked questions of any international nursing student is, Do I need to have good English to succeed in my program? To put it simply: Yes, you need to have a good grasp of the English language to enroll in a U.S. nursing school.
Most nursing school programs will require you to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language to ensure that you understand the language well enough to complete the coursework. This is true whether youre a first-year nursing student or an experienced RN enrolling in graduate-level studies in the United States.
2. You need to complete prerequisite coursework first.
How To Apply For Financial Aid
File a 202223 free application for Federal Student Aid at fafsa.gov. In the Colleges to Receive Information section of the application, select “San Francisco State University,” school code: 001154. If youre an undocumented student, file instead a California Dream Act Application for state and school financial aid.
If youre a California resident or eligible for in-state tuition under AB540, make sure your GPA has been submitted for a Cal Grant . Download the Cal Grant GPA Verification Form or the Non-SSN GPA Verification Form for Cal Grants and submit it to the California Student Aid Commission.
The 10 Cheapest Nursing Schools For International Students That Are Located In America
It doesnt matter where you are studying nursing as long as the program is accredited, and you have all the required certifications upon graduation. However, it is worth noting that the cheapest nursing schools for international students in the U.S offer the best quality of education and top-notch facilities that will prepare you to excel in todays competitive job market.
International students seeking admission into American colleges offering affordable tuition should focus on choosing a reputable program with good accreditation status. Since it can be very competitive to get into these programs, it is important for international students to ensure their application documents are complete with high GPA scores and other relevant experience that will make them stand out from other applicants. Additionally, having a good knowledge of English language can also help international students secure a spot in any of these programs as most schools require candidates to take an English proficiency test.
Recommended Reading: College Of Dupage Nursing School
Nursing Schools In The Us
Nursing schools in the US offer excellent education for anyone who is interested in pursuing a career in this field. They prepare students for a variety of careers, from becoming doctors and surgeons to working as nurses and assistants. Nursing schools have different requirements than other types of universities, so its important to know how theyre different before you apply.
- The first thing youll need to do when applying is take an entrance exam called the CNA examination. Its required by most nursing schools and will cover topics such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, microbiology and psychology among others. Youll also have to submit transcripts from high school or college for admission into any accredited nursing program at an American institution.
University Of West Georgia

The University of West Georgia Nursing School is also one of the most affordable Nursing schools in the U.S. that offers some of the most affordable RN to BSN programs for both local and international students.
Applicants seeking admission to the Nursing, RN to BSN program at the University of West Georgia should be self-directed and committed to engaging in caring nursing practices with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
As critical thinkers, students will be expected to examine personal value systems and the value systems of others. Students seeking admission to this program should consider their personal goals and values in light of those expressed in the philosophy of the School of Nursing.
Average Tuition Fee: $9,406 /Year
Don’t Miss: Sunset Lake Nursing Home Venice Florida
Free Nursing Schools With No Tuition
High salaries and emotionally rewarding career options await medical degree-holders after graduation. These two are the main reasons why thousands aspire to become nurses. Unfortunately, the high cost associated with going to nursing schools is a roadblock for many.
Nursing is a highly technical subject, and there is a lot to learn in just a few years. The fees for lectures, laboratory use, and multiple textbooks immediately rack up the bill. On top of that, students have to pay for uniforms, medical tools, and exam fees. The cost continues to rise for those who want to pursue advanced degrees.
Thankfully, many schools around the world offer tuition-free Nursing programs. If youre interested in going to one, here are some of the best nursing schools across the world that are free and have no tuition costs.
Dixie State University Of Utah
Students from overseas can also pursue nursing at Dixie State University in Utah, which was established in 1911. The tertiary institution offers over 200 low-cost programs and is one of the most affordable universities in the Western US.
The nursing programs fall under the College of Health Sciences. The school has several degrees and certificates available for trainees, and learners pay a tuition fee of between $7,650 to $10,200.
Recommended Reading: Skilled Nursing Facility Salinas Ca
Admission Requirements To Apply To Jacksonville State University School Of Nursing Bsn Program
-
A minimum ACT of 20
-
Official transcripts from each college or university attended must be provided
-
Completion of all prerequisite courses with “C” or better
-
Minimum 2.75 GPA on core requirement courses
-
Students for whom English is not their native language must present TOEFL completed within four years and meet the Department of Nursing TOEFL standard of: 560 for TOEFL written , 220 for TOEFL CBT , or 83 for iBT .
-
Criminal background checks and drug screens are required for all nursing students.
If you are on a budget with a desire to attend top Nursing schools in the U.S, which in turn are the cheapest nursing schools in USA, the compiled list of 15 cheapest nursing schools 2022 given in this article should prove helpful in narrowing down your search. Which one of these schools will you be applying to?
Scope After Studying At Nursing Colleges In Usa
Students can earn an average of 53,000 to 104,000 USD per annumafter completion of a program in nursing colleges in the USA. However, to practice as a nurse, you must have a registered RN license. Students who pursued a degree in nursing can apply for the NCLEX -RN exam. After scoring a passing pass, you will be provided the RN license and thus given the opportunity to practice in any hospital or clinic in the USA.
Although, anyone with a degree in nursing such as certificate, diploma, associate degree, bachelor’s or master’s degree can apply for an RN license in the USA. Yet, most of the organizations prefer to hire students having at least a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
Following are the available jobs in USA for nursing graduates:
- Work in hospitals
Read Also: University Of North Dakota Nursing
So What Are The Careers In Nursing
Completing a degree in nursing provides you with the abilities and complete information to become a hospital nurse, or to enter an alternate career in relation to research specialist practice, or alternative choices.
While over half of all the employed nurses are based mostly in a hospital, nursing students also can continue their studies to tread a path into specialist nursing fields.
Hospital nurses also have many career options within the healthcare system including work in Medical-Surgery, ED/ER , B , S , and ICU/NICU , to name a few. Alternatively, if you want to experience different types of nursing you can be a floater, a nurse that rotates across various departments and floors.
Outside of the hospital surroundings, a nurse could also be a nurse that cares for patients who are in a workplace, at a patient clinic, or at a patient surgical center.
These nurses prepare patients for routine examinations, administer injections and medications, dress wounds and incisions, and assist the healthcare team with minor and often, major surgeries.
Public health nurses work with communities like schools or small groups or teams to boost overall public health within the space. They provide instruction and guidance concerning health problems like disease prevention, nutrition, and child care.
These public health nurses organize health screenings for immunizations, blood pressure level testing, mammograms, and HIV/AIDS testing.
What Makes a Good Nurse?
All Uic Nursing Degree Programs Are Enriched By The Enrollment Of International Studentsheading Linkcopy Link
International applicants must submit the same application as U.S. students, as well as these additional materials:
- TOEFL OR IELTS scores
- University- or college-issued transcripts or mark sheets for all undergraduate work in the original language
- University- or college-issued transcripts or mark sheets for all post-baccalaureate work in the original language
- Certified English translation of all credentials
- Proof of all degrees awarded
Upon recommendation for admission from the College of Nursing, international applicants will be required to supply evidence of financial support for the first year of study. An additional, non-negotiable fee may be assessed to international applications by the Office of Admissions.
Also Check: Path To Become Nurse Practitioner
What Is The Cost Of Nursing Schools In Usa
The population of the United States is aging. The demand for nurses to care for the nations older citizens is growing as the countrys senior population grows.
While no one can anticipate what will happen in the future, it is reasonable to expect that the aging trend will continue. This makes now an excellent time to start nursing school.
Even while nursing occupations appear to have a bright future, there are several key factors to consider before devoting the next few years of your life to being a nurse.
One of the most often asked questions among prospective nursing students is: how much does nursing school cost in terms of money?
Cost is a key issue for anyone considering nursing schools, just as it is for any other student considering a major. The four criteria listed below will have an impact on how much you pay for your education.
These are four elements that influence the cost of nursing school.
1. Tuition is the most significant cost for students and their parents when it comes to nursing degrees. The amount you pay is determined by a number of criteria, the most important of which is the type of school you pursue.
A nurse can be trained in a variety of methods. An associate degree, a bachelors degree, a licenced practical nurse or licensed vocational nurse programme, or a bridging programme for LPNs or LVNs are all options. Each programme has a distinct cost associated with it.
In fact, you might think about taking out a student loan.
How Do International Students Pursue Nursing In Usa

Posted on August 1, 2020
At the undergraduate level, international students have the option of pursuing an ADN or BSN. Nurses can choose from either an associate degree in Nursing or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing .
ADN programs from career-focused colleges can be completed in 12-24 months. BSN programs typically take four years, but some can be completed sooner. The main differences between ADN and BSN programs are the length of time needed to complete each and the number of credits required graduating from the program.
However, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing is more preferred degree in majority of the hospitals. Graduates with either degree are qualified to take the National Council Licensure Examination, or NCLEX, the licensing exam for registered nurses in the USA.
Requirements to study BSN in the USA for International Students
Academic Transcript Requirements All higher-secondary official documents/ transcripts should be issued in English. If original documents are issued in a language other than English, certified English translations must also be submitted.
WES Evaluation is needed, and the GPA should be minimum 3 or more in the scale of 4 in relevant subject like Biology, Anatomy, health and hygiene, chemistry, pre nursing courses etc.
Standardized Test score SAT / ACT is needed. Your score in SAT/ACT maths and science section is especially important. Competitive college may ask for SAT subject test like chemistry, Biology as well.
Cost of Studying BSN
Recommended Reading: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post Graduate Certificate
Nursing Colleges In Usa: Documents Required For Bachelors
International students must submit the following documents either by post or via mail directly to the admission committee of the respective university to apply for nursing colleges in the USA:
- Original copies of senior secondary school and high school completion certificate
- Subject by subject evaluation of international students transcripts by one of the accredited agencies
- English translation of non-English transcripts
- Official test report of English proficiency tests
- Recommendation letters from a teacher or guidance counselor
Illinois Eastern Community College
Illinois Eastern Community College offers a practical nursing program designed to prepare the learners to give nursing care to patients at the bedside under the direction of a registered nurse, licensed physician, or dentist.
The trainees monitor vital signs, including temperature, blood pressure, and respiration. Additionally, they amend the patient’s dressings, give injections and meet their emotional needs. They also work closely with nursing homes, and students pay roughly $4,090 annually.
Also Check: St John Fisher Nursing Program Requirements
Baker University School Of Nursing
Baker University School of Nursing’s mission statement is to develop resilient, mindful and accomplished nurses equipped to make significant contributions to the health of the populations they serve. This top Nursing school in USA offers affordable Nursing programs, from affordable BSN programs to some of the least expensive DNP programs in America.
Degrees Offered in Baker University School of Nursing are Associates in Nursing to Master of Science in Nursing , Bachelor of Science in Nursing , as well as Master of Science in Nursing .
This school is also accredited by Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education , State Board of Registered Nursing, as well as the Higher Learning Commission
Average Tuition Fee: $27,160/Year
How To Submit Toefl
Test scores must be sent directly from the testing agency to be considered official. The institutional code for Texas A& M University for the SAT and TOEFL is 6003, and the ACT code is 4198. There is no institutional code for the IELTS examination, therefore use the Office of Admissions address listed below when requesting scores be sent to Texas A& M University. Tests should be taken at least eight weeks prior to the appropriate application deadline to ensure timely receipt and processing of results.
International Admissions Processing Texas A& M UniversityP.O. Box 40002College Station, TX 77842-4002
You may verify receipt of your official scores by contacting the . You will need to include your name , date of birth, Texas A& M issued Universal Identification Number if known, type of test, date test was taken and date you requested the scores to be sent to Texas A& M University.
Don’t Miss: Family Nurse Practitioner Program Length
Prerequisites For Foreign Or International Nursing Students
Nursing schools require international nursing students to pass the Test of English as a Foreign Language and provide evidence of previous education necessary for admission to a U.S. school.
Prospective nursing students from outside the U.S. looking to study at a graduate nursing program must also have the credentials equal to a BSN degree and appropriate work experience if necessary. GRE scores may also be required. If international nurses have not already taken and passed the NCLEX-RN exam they will be required to either before they start school or by a certain point in their studies. The same with the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools Exam, which tests foreign nursing students on concepts and skills applicable to the American RN.
University Of Illinois At Chicago
The University of Illinois College of Nursing is ranked as one of the top 10nursing programs in the US by the Global Network of WHO Collaborating Centres . Students from all races,continents and backgrounds will learn from award-winning professors and clinicians at the University of Illinois.These professionals are generating nursing research that directly improves the lives of patients in our local andglobal communities.
Also Check: Adn Nurse Vs Bsn Nurse
University Of South Alabama
The University of South Alabama Accelerated nursing program is a 15-month, full-time program designed for students who are interested in accelerating their nursing education.
This accelerated nursing program offers courses that are completed in one year, instead of two years, so students can graduate sooner and start working as a nurse sooner. The curriculum includes courses in leadership, management, healthcare ethics, healthcare economics, leadership development, and pediatrics. Students will also have opportunities to take part in clinical rotations at area hospitals. Licensed Nurses with experience working with children or adults who have health issues or disabilities supervise the school and lectures. So if you are looking for a two-year nursing degree program in the US for international students.
Be In Good Standing At The Last College Or University Attended

Be in good standing or eligible to re-enroll at your last college or university attended.
Majors with Additional Requirements
Some majors at SF State are impacted, where the number of fully eligible applicants exceed the number of spaces available in that major. These majors may have additional supplemental admission criteria and may hold applicants to a higher GPA standard. Applicants to an impacted program must specify an alternative major in the event they are not admitted to the major. Check future.sfsu.edu/impaction and the impacted majors department websites for details.
Recommended Reading: Bachelor In Psychology To Nursing