Nursing Scholarships in the United States for International Students (Including Nigerians) – Fully Funded Opportunities

Looking for nursing scholarships in the United States for international students, including Nigerians? This comprehensive guide explores fully funded and partial scholarships, eligibility criteria, and how to apply for nursing programs in the USA.

 

Introduction: Why Study Nursing in the United States?

The United States is one of the best destinations for nursing students due to its high-quality education, advanced medical facilities, and diverse career opportunities. However, studying nursing in the USA can be expensive, especially for international students. This is where fully funded nursing scholarships in the USA come in, offering financial support to help students achieve their dream of becoming registered nurses (RNs) or advanced practice nurses.

If you are a Nigerian student or any other international applicant, this guide will walk you through:
✅ Top Nursing Scholarships in the USA
✅ Fully Funded vs. Partial Scholarships
✅ Eligibility Requirements
✅ How to Apply for Nursing Scholarships in the USA
✅ Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship

12 canada resources that will help you get scholarship

Top Nursing Scholarships in the United States for International Students

There are several scholarships available for international nursing students who want to study in the USA. These include government-funded scholarships, university-specific grants, and private funding options.

1. Fulbright Foreign Student Nursing Program (Fully Funded)

The Fulbright Program is one of the most prestigious scholarships for international students, including Nigerians, covering all expenses for graduate study in the USA.

Benefits:

✅ Full tuition coverage
✅ Monthly stipend for living expenses
✅ Health insurance
✅ Travel allowance

Eligibility:

• Must have a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN).
• Strong academic record.
• Commitment to return to your home country after studies.

📅 Application Deadline: Varies by country, usually between February and May.

🔗 Apply Here: https://foreign.fulbrightonline.org/

2. Global Health Nursing Fellowship (GHNF) – Fully Funded

This fellowship is designed for international nursing students who wish to gain experience in global health and advanced nursing practice.

Benefits:

✅ Covers tuition and living expenses
✅ Hands-on training in top US hospitals
✅ Research and leadership development

Eligibility:

• Open to international students, including Nigerians.
• Must have at least a bachelor’s degree in nursing.

📅 Application Deadline: March 2025

🔗 Apply Here: https://www.globalhealthfellows.org/

3. The National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) Scholarship Program

This scholarship supports Black international nursing students, including Nigerians studying in the USA.

Benefits:

✅ Award amount: $1,000 – $10,000
✅ Covers tuition, books, and fees

Eligibility:

• Must be enrolled in a nursing program in the USA.
• Member of the National Black Nurses Association (NBNA).

📅 Application Deadline: April 2025

🔗 Apply Here: https://www.nbna.org/scholarships

4. American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Scholarships

AACN offers multiple nursing scholarships for international students in the USA.

Benefits:

✅ Partial tuition funding ($2,500 – $5,000)
✅ Available for BSN, MSN, and DNP students

Eligibility:

• Open to all international nursing students.
• Must be enrolled in an AACN-accredited nursing school.

📅 Application Deadline: Rolling applications throughout the year.

🔗 Apply Here: https://www.aacnnursing.org/Students/Financial-Aid

 

5. Nurse Corps Scholarship Program (Fully Funded)

This US government-funded nursing scholarship provides full tuition, living stipends, and career placement opportunities.

Benefits:

✅ Full tuition coverage
✅ Monthly stipend for living expenses
✅ Guaranteed job placement after graduation

Eligibility:

• Open to international students (Nigerians can apply).
• Must be accepted into an accredited nursing school in the USA.
• Commitment to work in an underserved community in the USA after graduation.

📅 Application Deadline: June 2025

🔗 Apply Here: https://bhw.hrsa.gov/loansscholarships/nursecorps/scholarship

Eligibility Requirements for Nursing Scholarships in the USA

To qualify for a nursing scholarship in the United States, international students, including Nigerians, must typically meet the following criteria:

✅ Academic Excellence: Most scholarships require a strong academic record (GPA of 3.0 or higher).
✅ English Proficiency: Proof of English proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS.
✅ Admission to a Nursing Program: You must have an offer letter from a US-accredited nursing school.
✅ Work or Volunteer Experience: Many scholarships prefer students with healthcare or volunteer experience.
✅ Commitment to Nursing and Public Health: Some scholarships require community service commitments after graduation.

 

How to Apply for Nursing Scholarships in the United States

Step 1: Research the Best Scholarships

• Visit official websites of universities, nursing associations, and government organizations.
• Check eligibility criteria and application deadlines.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

Most nursing scholarships require:
📌 Academic transcripts
📌 Personal statement/essay
📌 Letters of recommendation
📌 Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS)
📌 Resume or CV

Step 3: Apply Early

• Many scholarship deadlines fall between December and June.
• Submit applications at least 3-6 months before the deadline.

Step 4: Prepare for Interviews (If Required)

• Some scholarships, such as Fulbright and Nurse Corps, require an interview.
• Be ready to discuss your career goals and passion for nursing.

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Nursing Scholarship

✅ Apply to multiple scholarships – Don’t put all your hopes on just one scholarship.
✅ Write a strong personal statement – Highlight your passion for nursing, leadership skills, and future impact.
✅ Get strong letters of recommendation – Choose professors, employers, or mentors who can speak about your skills and dedication.
✅ Gain volunteer experience – Many scholarships prefer students with community service or healthcare-related experience.

 

Conclusion: Your Path to Studying Nursing in the USA

Studying nursing in the United States is a life-changing opportunity, but the cost can be high. Thankfully, there are numerous nursing scholarships in the USA for international students, including Nigerians, that can help reduce or eliminate tuition costs.

Are you ready to apply for a nursing scholarship in the USA? Start researching, prepare your application, and submit early! Share this post with others who may need this information.