Tips on scholarships, exams, and applying to US nursing schools?

Hi everyone, I’m currently a senior high school student at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) in the Health Allied strand. I’ll graduate in May 2026, and I’m planning to apply to nursing schools in the US. UST has partnerships with some US universities, which I hope can help with my applications. I’d like advice on:

  1. Scholarships/Financial Aid: How can I find and apply for scholarships as an international student? Are there specific nursing schools that are more accessible?
  2. Exams: Are tests like TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, or ACT all necessary? Can I get waivers for some of them?
  3. Best Time to Apply: When should I start my applications since I graduate in May 2026?
  4. Recommended Universities: Can you suggest nursing schools with good reputations and financial aid options for international students?
  5. Resources: Are there organizations or agencies in the Philippines that help students apply to US universities?

Any tips on saving money or navigating the process would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for your help!

If you can’t fully fund it, a practical route is finishing nursing in the Philippines, passing the NCLEX, working for a couple of years, and then applying for an EB-3 visa.

Cody said:
If you can’t fully fund it, a practical route is finishing nursing in the Philippines, passing the NCLEX, working for a couple of years, and then applying for an EB-3 visa.

I agree. It’s best to take the NCLEX right after passing the boards to avoid delays.

Cody said:
If you can’t fully fund it, a practical route is finishing nursing in the Philippines, passing the NCLEX, working for a couple of years, and then applying for an EB-3 visa.

This is the way most nurses approach it, and it’s been proven to work well.

Why not study nursing in the Philippines? Even graduates from provincial schools can go to the US as long as they pass the NCLEX.

  1. Financial aid is tough for international students. Check each college’s website for specifics.

  2. For exams, consider the Duolingo English Test. It’s cheaper. Some schools are test-optional for SAT/ACT. English tests are usually mandatory.

  3. The best time to apply is as early as possible. Some deadlines might already be approaching.

  4. In NY, top nursing schools are NYU and Hunter College. They don’t offer aid for international students, but merit-based scholarships are an option if you have perfect grades.

Starting at a community college is cheaper and can help you build a strong foundation before transferring to a university. Just keep your grades high and gain experience.

@Abi
Thanks for sharing. I’m considering community colleges for another course. Would you recommend switching to nursing instead? I’ve heard IT is tough right now and nursing seems more stable.

Fane said:
@Abi
Thanks for sharing. I’m considering community colleges for another course. Would you recommend switching to nursing instead? I’ve heard IT is tough right now and nursing seems more stable.

  1. IT is competitive because the talent pool is large. Nursing is a better option if you want more job stability in the US.

  2. Medical jobs are in high demand, and locals often avoid them due to the workload, making it easier for foreign workers to get in.

  3. Relying on sponsorships is like playing the lottery. A nursing degree gives you a better chance at securing a visa and job.

  4. If the US is your goal, focus on healthcare-related fields. They offer a more direct path to employment and visa sponsorship.

Financial aid isn’t available for international students. If you can’t afford the tests or tuition, this path might not work for you.

Those universities are need-aware. Without high financial capacity and nearly perfect grades, admission is slim. Some state universities are easier to get into if you can pay in full. Community colleges are more budget-friendly, but visas and living expenses are challenges. Employers prioritize skills over prestige in nursing, so focus on practical choices.

Why not consider studying nursing in the Philippines? It’s cheaper and your credentials will still be recognized in the US. You can save money and avoid debt.

Even local high school graduates struggle to get into nursing programs in the US. Admission is very competitive, with limited spots available.

I inquired at a community college in LA. For residents, it’s $46 per unit, but for international students, it’s $406 per unit. Huge difference.

FAFSA is for US residents only. International students face higher tuition costs and more competitive admissions. Nursing programs are tough to get into, even at community colleges. It’s more practical to study nursing in the Philippines and get your BSN and experience there before moving to the US.

Are you planning to study in the US to work there? If so, consider finishing nursing in the Philippines first. It’s cheaper, and passing the NCLEX opens opportunities in the US.

Micah said:
Are you planning to study in the US to work there? If so, consider finishing nursing in the Philippines first. It’s cheaper, and passing the NCLEX opens opportunities in the US.

Exactly. Even if OP manages to study in the US, there’s no guarantee of finding an employer to sponsor a work visa.

I think you should focus on affordable options like nursing programs in the Philippines. Scholarships in the US are very limited for international students.

Sidney said:
I think you should focus on affordable options like nursing programs in the Philippines. Scholarships in the US are very limited for international students.

Thanks for the advice. I’m looking into all options and appreciate your input.

Scholarships exist for international students, but financial aid isn’t available. Nursing is respected in the US, but the financial burden of studying there is significant. If you can study nursing in the Philippines and pass the NCLEX, you’ll have an easier path to working in the US without the debt.

FAFSA isn’t available for international students. Scholarships are an option, but think carefully about the costs of studying in the US. Nursing in the Philippines is much cheaper and your degree will still be recognized in the US. If you decide to pursue it in the US, community colleges are a more affordable entry point.