Is it possible to study nursing in the USA for free?

I'm really interested in nursing, but I'm worried about the cost. Are there any full scholarships or programs that allow you to study nursing in the USA without paying tuition?

While it may be challenging to study in the US for entirely free, there are many scholarships and financial aid options that can significantly reduce your costs. For example, several universities, like Vanderbilt University and Columbia University, offer need-based financial assistance to undergraduate students, both domestic and international. However, keep in mind that both Vanderbilt and Columbia's prestigious nursing programs are for graduate students, so you'd need to research specific financial aid policies at each individual institution.

Furthermore, there are numerous nursing-specific scholarships available. You might consider the Nurse Corps Scholarship Program, which offers substantial financial aid to students enrolled in a diploma, associate, baccalaureate, or graduate degree nursing program. In exchange, students must commit to working at an eligible hospital or clinic in a high-need area for a set period after graduation.

Also, the National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) offers numerous scholarships specifically for African American nursing students, and the American Indian Nurse Scholarship Award program provides assistance for Native American nursing students.

Job opportunities within hospitals might also be a helpful avenue to explore. Some hospitals have programs that pay for your nursing education in exchange for a commitment to work for them after graduation.

To fully take advantage of these, it's important to thoroughly research each opportunity and apply as early as possible. Remember, while studying for free may not be an entirely achievable goal, any reduction in cost can make a significant difference.