The demand for nurses worldwide is increasing due to an aging population and the need for quality healthcare professionals.
The United States is one of the top destinations for nursing education, offering globally recognized degrees and advanced training facilities. However, the high cost of education can be a significant barrier for international students.
Fortunately, several nursing schools in the USA offer affordable tuition, making it possible for international students to pursue their dream careers without financial strain.
In this article, we will explore the 10 cheapest nursing schools in the USA for international students, key factors to consider when choosing a school, available scholarships, and the application process.
Why Choose the USA for Nursing Studies?
- High-Quality Education: U.S. nursing programs are accredited and provide top-tier education, preparing students for a successful healthcare career.
- Advanced Healthcare Training: The USA has modern hospitals and research institutions where students receive hands-on experience.
- Career Opportunities: A nursing degree from the USA can lead to employment in various healthcare settings globally, with opportunities to work in the U.S. after graduation.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Nursing School
- Tuition Fees: Look for schools with lower international tuition rates.
- Scholarships & Financial Aid: Some schools offer grants and scholarships to help international students afford their education.
- NCLEX Pass Rates: A high pass rate indicates a strong nursing program.
- Location & Cost of Living: Some states have a lower cost of living, reducing overall expenses.
- Accreditation: Ensure the school is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
10 Cheapest Nursing Schools in the USA for International Students
| School | Tuition Fee (Per Year) | Location |
| University of Texas Rio Grande Valley | $19,000 | Edinburg, Texas |
| Fayetteville State University | $15,000 | Fayetteville, North Carolina |
| Brigham Young University (BYU) | $12,000 | Provo, Utah |
| University of Central Missouri | $14,500 | Warrensburg, Missouri |
| South Dakota State University | $14,000 | Brookings, South Dakota |
| California State University, Long Beach | $18,500 | Long Beach, California |
| Minot State University | $10,000 | Minot, North Dakota |
| University of Maine at Fort Kent | $12,500 | Fort Kent, Maine |
| Delta State University | $13,000 | Cleveland, Mississippi |
| Indiana State University | $15,000 | Terre Haute, Indiana |
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Tuition Fee: Approximately $19,000 per year.
- Location: Edinburg, Texas.
- Program Overview: Offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) with hands-on clinical training.
- Requirements: High school diploma, TOEFL/IELTS for non-native English speakers, prerequisite courses in biology and chemistry.
- URL: https://www.utrgv.edu
Fayetteville State University
- Tuition Fee: Around $15,000 per year.
- Location: Fayetteville, North Carolina.
- Program Overview: Provides a strong nursing curriculum with modern lab facilities and clinical rotations.
- Requirements: SAT/ACT scores, English proficiency test, and completion of prerequisite science courses.
- URL: https://www.uncfsu.edu
Brigham Young University (BYU)
- Tuition Fee: About $12,000 per year for international students.
- Location: Provo, Utah.
- Program Overview: A private university offering high-quality nursing education with a focus on patient care.
- Requirements: High school diploma, English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS), and personal statement.
- URL: https://www.byu.edu
University of Central Missouri
- Tuition Fee: Approximately $14,500 per year.
- Location: Warrensburg, Missouri.
- Program Overview: Offers an affordable BSN program with clinical training in various healthcare settings.
- Requirements: SAT/ACT scores, recommendation letters, and TOEFL/IELTS.
- URL: https://www.ucmo.edu
South Dakota State University
- Tuition Fee: Around $14,000 per year.
- Location: Brookings, South Dakota.
- Program Overview: Prepares students for the NCLEX exam with hands-on training and research opportunities.
- Requirements: Academic transcripts, English proficiency, and completion of prerequisite science courses.
- URL: https://www.sdstate.edu
California State University, Long Beach
- Tuition Fee: Roughly $18,500 per year.
- Location: Long Beach, California.
- Program Overview: A competitive nursing program with high NCLEX pass rates and internship opportunities.
- Requirements: SAT/ACT scores, prerequisite courses, and English proficiency.
- URL: https://www.csulb.edu
Minot State University
- Tuition Fee: Around $10,000 per year.
- Location: Minot, North Dakota.
- Program Overview: One of the most affordable nursing schools offering personalized education and small class sizes.
- Requirements: TOEFL/IELTS, high school diploma, and prerequisite courses.
- URL: https://www.minotstateu.edu
University of Maine at Fort Kent
- Tuition Fee: About $12,500 per year.
- Location: Fort Kent, Maine.
- Program Overview: Provides accredited nursing programs with hands-on training and rural healthcare experience.
- Requirements: Academic transcripts, English proficiency, and prerequisite science courses.
- URL: https://www.umfk.edu
Delta State University
- Tuition Fee: Roughly $13,000 per year.
- Location: Cleveland, Mississippi.
- Program Overview: Offers an affordable nursing degree with a focus on clinical practice.
- Requirements: High school diploma, TOEFL/IELTS, and minimum GPA requirement.
- URL: https://www.deltastate.edu
Indiana State University
- Tuition Fee: Around $15,000 per year.
- Location: Terre Haute, Indiana.
- Program Overview: Provides a high-quality BSN program with strong faculty support and research opportunities.
- Requirements: SAT/ACT scores, recommendation letters, and English proficiency.
- URL: https://www.indstate.edu
Scholarships for International Nursing Students in the USA
To help offset costs, international students can apply for scholarships such as:
- The Fulbright Foreign Student Program – Offers full funding for international students.
- The Global Nursing Research Grant – Provides financial support for nursing students.
- Institutional Scholarships – Many universities offer merit-based scholarships for international nursing students.
How to Apply for Nursing Schools in the USA
- Research and shortlist affordable nursing schools.
- Check admission requirements (English proficiency, prerequisite courses).
- Prepare necessary documents (transcripts, recommendation letters, personal statement).
- Apply online through the university’s official website.
- Apply for an F-1 student visa to study in the USA.
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