Is there a process for Canadians to study nursing in the USA?

Considering a nursing career, I’m curious about the process for Canadian students like me to study nursing in the USA. Any tips on applications or programs that are welcoming to international students?

As a Canadian student aspiring to study nursing in the U.S., there are several steps you'll have to tackle to make this transition possible. Here are some general steps for your application process:

1. Identifying potential programs: Research nursing programs that admit international students and align with your career aspirations. Check out the programs' curriculums, faculty, facilities, and tracks (like BSN, MSN, DNP, etc.). Schools like University of Pennsylvania, Duke University, Emory University, and University of Michigan have been known for welcoming international students in their nursing programs.

2. Entry requirements: Understand the entry requirements for each program. Typically, they will want to see your high school transcript (sometimes translated to English), letters of recommendation, an application essay, and proof of English proficiency (like a TOEFL or IELTS score), assuming that English isn't your first language.

3. Standardized testing: While many U.S. schools have moved towards being test-optional due to changes in SAT and ACT testing, some may still require SAT or ACT scores from international students. Check the specific requirements of the programs you're interested in.

4. Financial Planning: International students are typically not eligible for federal financial aid in the U.S. As such, you may need to provide proof of finances showing that you can pay for tuition and living expenses. Some schools do offer scholarships for international students, so it can benefit you to ask the school's financial aid office for advice.

5. Applying: Once you've gathered all the necessary components, you can start applying to the programs of your choice. Most nursing programs will either have their own application portal or use a common one like NursingCAS.

6. Student Visa: If admitted, you'll need to apply for a student visa. The school will typically send an I-20 form which you can use to apply for an F1 visa.

7. State Licensing: Upon graduation, if you plan to practice in the U.S., you'll need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and fulfill other state licensing requirements.

Remember, each school may have slightly different requirements or processes, so it's crucial to thoroughly research each program and reach out to their admissions offices for detailed information. Good luck with your journey in pursuing a nursing degree!