Study Nursing for Free in the US: A Stable Path for Immigrants Who Want to Change Their Lives

The Big Picture: The Demand for Nursing Is Growing Rapidly in the United States
Over the past two decades, the U.S. health care system has faced a severe shortage of health care workers, especially nurses. The reasons come from an aging population, increasing chronic diseases, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that the U.S. will need more than 275,000 new nurses each year through 2032.

In this context, immigrants – especially those without degrees or in low-wage jobs – are being strongly encouraged to enter the nursing field. Many states, public schools and non-profit organizations have implemented free training programs, full scholarships or reduced tuition to facilitate access to healthcare careers for immigrant communities.

Why is nursing a good career for immigrants?

Unlike many professions in the US that require a bachelor’s degree or years of experience, nursing allows students to start at the entry level (CNA – nursing assistant) without many entry requirements. The training program is usually short (only a few months to two years), low cost or free, and most importantly: there is employment almost immediately after graduation.

In addition, many immigrants choose nursing because:

  • This is a humanitarian industry, helping the community.

  • Good starting salary, stable and can increase quickly.

  • Clear advancement opportunities: from CNA to LPN, RN, then to head nurse or skilled nurse.

  • Can work flexible hours (morning shift, evening shift, weekend).

  • Some programs also support transition to residency status through long-term employment in the public health system.

What programs are supported?

Currently, immigrants can find many free or financially supported nursing training options at the following places:

1. Community Colleges

In states such as California, New York, Illinois, Texas, and Florida, many community colleges offer entry-level to intermediate nursing programs with 100% state-funded tuition, especially for low-income people, legal immigrants, and refugees.

For example:

  • California: California Health Workforce Initiative

  • New York: City University of New York (CUNY) Nursing Programs

  • Illinois: Career and Technical Education Grants Help Adults Reenter the Workforce

2. Non-profit and international organizations

Some organizations that support immigrants with vocational training for free or through scholarships:

  • TheDream.US – scholarships for DACA or undocumented people

  • Upwardly Global – career guidance and retraining for skilled immigrants

  • International Rescue Committee (IRC) – supports refugees and immigrants in taking CNA or RN courses

3. Online learning program – combined with local internship

Some programs combine online training with hands-on practice at hospitals near you. These courses are especially suitable for people who work or have family responsibilities, as they can study on a flexible schedule. Most of these programs offer materials in simple English, and some are bilingual (English-Spanish).

How does the learning process work?

Depending on the level of study and place of registration, the study program may last:

  • CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant): 4–12 weeks

  • LPN (Licensed Practical Nursing): 1 year

  • ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing – equivalent to college): 2 years

  • RN (Professional Nursing): after completing ADN and passing the NCLEX-RN exam

Students will undergo both theory and clinical practice (usually in a hospital, nursing home, or other health care facility). Many schools also offer additional classes in professional English, patient communication skills, and practice exams for certification.

What can you do after graduation?

After completing the program and passing the certificate exam, students can work at:

  • Public and private hospitals

  • Nursing home

  • Home health care

  • Schools, prisons, or community health facilities

Average salary:

  • CNA: 28,000 – 38,000 USD/year

  • LPN: 45,000 – 60,000 USD/year

  • RN: $70,000 – $95,000/year (depending on state and experience)

In addition, many immigrants after working at a public hospital for 1-3 years can apply for a change of residence status through employment or have their employer sponsor an EB-3 green card application.

What do I need to prepare to register?

  • High school diploma or equivalent (if it is a foreign diploma, it must be notarized)

  • Identification documents: ID, residence card, or asylum/temporary residence certificate

  • Application form according to each program

  • Some places may require letters of recommendation, essays about career goals

Note: If you are not confident in your English, many programs allow you to take an ESL (English as a Second Language) course before entering the nursing program.

Conclude

Choosing to study nursing is not only a smart financial and career move for immigrants, but also a positive contribution to American society. With hundreds of programs supporting free tuition, scholarships, and jobs tied to immigration, this is truly a real and worthy opportunity to pursue.

If you are looking for a stable career path that can change your family life in the next few years, then the journey to become a nurse is a path you should not miss.