Nursing is not just a profession — it is a calling. Nurses are the ones who stay when everyone else leaves, who listen when patients are scared, and who care when healing feels slow. Around the world, healthcare systems desperately need skilled nurses, yet many passionate students are unable to pursue nursing education because of financial barriers.
The good news is that fully funded nursing scholarships exist to support students who want to serve humanity without being held back by money. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living costs, accommodation, travel, and even licensing support in some cases.
This article shares 12 fully funded scholarships for nursing students, written in a warm, realistic, and human way, so you can clearly understand which opportunity fits your journey.
1. Florence Nightingale Foundation Scholarships (United Kingdom)
Named after the founder of modern nursing, this scholarship is built on compassion, leadership, and service. It supports nurses and midwives who want to improve healthcare systems and patient outcomes.
This scholarship is ideal for students who don’t just want a degree, but want to make a difference.
What it covers
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Full or partial tuition support
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Leadership development funding
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Study and project expenses
Study level
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Postgraduate nursing
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Professional development
👉 Apply here:
https://florence-nightingale-foundation.org.uk/
2. WHO Nursing and Midwifery Scholarships (Global)
The World Health Organization (WHO) supports nursing and midwifery education in countries facing healthcare shortages. These scholarships focus on strengthening health systems through education.
They are especially suitable for students who want to serve their communities after graduation.
What it covers
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Tuition fees
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Living allowance
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Training and certification support
Study level
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Diploma
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Bachelor’s
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Postgraduate
👉 Apply through WHO programs:
https://www.who.int/
3. Global Nursing Education Scholarships – Sigma Theta Tau
Sigma Theta Tau International is one of the most respected nursing organizations worldwide. Their scholarships support nursing students who show dedication, leadership, and academic promise.
What it covers
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Tuition assistance
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Research and academic expenses
Study level
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Bachelor’s
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Master’s
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PhD
👉 Apply here:
https://www.sigmanursing.org/
4. Japanese Government (MEXT) Nursing Scholarships
Japan faces an aging population and actively supports international nursing students. The MEXT Scholarship allows students to study nursing and healthcare sciences at Japanese institutions with full funding.
What it covers
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Full tuition fees
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Monthly stipend
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Travel costs
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Medical insurance
Study level
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Bachelor’s
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Master’s
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PhD
👉 Apply here:
https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/
5. Erasmus+ Healthcare and Nursing Scholarships (Europe)
Erasmus+ offers joint healthcare and nursing programs across multiple European countries. These programs focus on modern nursing practices, patient safety, and global health.
What it covers
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Tuition fees
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Monthly allowance
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Travel and insurance
Study level
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Master’s
👉 Apply here:
https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/
6. Australian Government Nursing Scholarships (Australia Awards)
Australia Awards support international students in health-related fields, including nursing. The program focuses on leadership, professional skills, and healthcare improvement.
What it covers
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Full tuition fees
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Living expenses
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Airfare
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Health insurance
Study level
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Bachelor’s
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Master’s
👉 Apply here:
https://www.australiaawards.gov.au/
7. Commonwealth Nursing Scholarships (UK & Partner Countries)
Designed for students from developing countries, these scholarships support nursing and public health education in the UK with the aim of improving healthcare back home.
What it covers
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Tuition fees
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Living stipend
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Travel allowance
Study level
-
Master’s
👉 Apply here:
https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/
8. Aga Khan Foundation Health Sciences Scholarships
The Aga Khan Foundation supports students pursuing nursing and health sciences, particularly those committed to community service and healthcare development.
What it covers
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Tuition support
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Living expenses (often as a grant + loan mix)
Study level
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Undergraduate
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Postgraduate
👉 Apply here:
https://www.akdn.org/our-agencies/aga-khan-foundation
9. New Zealand Nursing Scholarships (Manaaki New Zealand)
New Zealand supports international nursing students who want to gain high-quality education and contribute to global healthcare.
What it covers
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Tuition fees
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Living allowance
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Travel and insurance
Study level
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Bachelor’s
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Master’s
👉 Apply here:
https://www.manaaki.scholarships.govt.nz/
10. Rotary Peace & Health Scholarships (Nursing Focus)
Rotary supports students in healthcare-related peacebuilding and public health nursing roles. This is ideal for nurses interested in humanitarian and community health work.
What it covers
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Tuition fees
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Living expenses
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Internship and travel support
Study level
-
Master’s
👉 Apply here:
https://www.rotary.org/
11. Government of Ireland Nursing Scholarships
Ireland offers funding to international nursing students in response to global healthcare needs. These scholarships support education and professional nursing training.
What it covers
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Tuition fees
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Living stipend
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Study support
Study level
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Undergraduate
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Postgraduate
👉 Apply here:
https://www.gov.ie/
12. UNICEF Health & Nursing Education Programs
UNICEF supports education programs in maternal health, child nursing, and public health nursing, especially in developing regions.
What it covers
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Education and training costs
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Living support
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Field training
Study level
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Certificate
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Degree
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Postgraduate
👉 Apply here:
https://www.unicef.org/
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is nursing a good career internationally?
Yes. Nurses are in high demand worldwide, with opportunities in hospitals, NGOs, humanitarian missions, and public health organizations.
Can international students get fully funded nursing scholarships?
Yes. Many governments and global organizations support nursing education due to global healthcare shortages.
Do I need work experience?
Some scholarships prefer experience, but many accept fresh students with strong motivation.
Is IELTS required?
Often yes, but some programs offer waivers or alternative proof of English proficiency.
💙 Final Words
Nursing is about service, patience, and humanity. These scholarships exist because the world needs compassionate professionals who care deeply about others.
If you have the heart to serve, funding should never stop you. With preparation, honesty, and commitment, your dream of becoming a nurse is absolutely possible.
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