For international students, finding “fully funded” nursing scholarships in the USA is a highly competitive endeavor. While many nursing scholarships are partial awards (ranging from $1,000 to $10,000), a few specialized programs offer full coverage—often in exchange for a commitment to work in specific high-need areas.
Duke University Scholarships for International Students 2026
Top Fully Funded & High-Value Opportunities
If your goal is to have tuition, fees, and living expenses covered, these are the primary programs to target for 2026.
1. HRSA Nurse Corps Scholarship Program
This is the gold standard for full funding. It is open to students accepted into or enrolled in an accredited nursing program.
- Benefit: It covers full tuition, all eligible fees, books, clinical supplies, and provides a monthly stipend.
- The Commitment: In return, you must work at an eligible Critical Shortage Facility (CSF) for at least two years after graduation.
- Eligibility: While primarily for U.S. citizens and permanent residents, some international students with specific legal statuses may qualify. Always check the annual Application and Program Guidance.
2. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
For international students pursuing a Master’s or PhD in nursing (often with a focus on research or administration).
- Benefit: A true “full-ride” including travel and living costs.
- Selection: Selection happens in your home country. You must check with your local U.S. Embassy or Fulbright Commission for 2026 application windows.
Bible School Full Scholarship for International Students in USA: Complete 2026 Guide
University-Specific “Full Funding” (PhD Level)
If you are pursuing a PhD in Nursing, many top U.S. research universities offer “fully funded” packages to international students. These packages typically include:
- Full Tuition Waiver
- Health Insurance
- Teaching/Research Assistantship Stipend (Approx. $30,000 – $40,000/year)
Notable Universities with Funded PhDs:
- University of Pennsylvania (Penn Nursing)
- Johns Hopkins University
- University of Washington
High-Value Partial Scholarships (2026 Deadlines)
These scholarships are frequently used by international students to stack funding alongside university grants.
- FNSNA General Scholarship: Awards up to $10,000. Open to students in state-approved nursing programs. Deadline: January 9, 2026.
- Hurst Review – AACN Scholarship: Awards $2,500 to students at AACN member schools. Deadline: February 1, 2026.
- DiversityNursing.com Scholarship: A $5,000 award based on a random drawing of eligible registered students. Deadline: May 12, 2026.
Strategic Application Tips for 2026
- I-20 Financial Proof: Even if you win a scholarship, you must prove you can cover the remaining costs (health insurance, travel) to receive your F-1 Visa.
- Focus on “Member Schools”: Many awards (like the NurseThink or Hurst Review) are only available if you attend a school that is a member of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN).
- Holistic Profiles: U.S. scholarship committees look for “Heart.” Your personal statement should explain why you chose nursing and how you plan to impact global healthcare.
- Credential Evaluation: International students must have their high school or prior university transcripts evaluated by an agency like CGFNS or WES before applying for most scholarships.