11 Top Nursing Study Abroad Programs

If you’re in the healthcare field, especially as a nursing student, you may not think studying abroad is a possibility for you. You’ll be happy to hear that nursing study abroad programs do exist and it’s 100% possible for you to participate! The best study abroad programs for nursing students provide credit for your time abroad, equivalent to the credit you would receive had you stayed home.

In addition to this credit, you’ll gain experience that will set you apart and ahead of your peers, an international network that will provide future opportunities, and personal and professional growth.

Your time studying abroad as a nursing student will be one of the best times of your life, regardless of your destination. The memories you’ll make, the culture you’ll experience, the languages you’ll learn, and the relationships you’ll build will stay with you long after your study abroad experiences come to an end.

What makes these programs the best?

The best programs will leave you feeling knowledgeable and prepared for the road ahead!

The best nursing programs for students are defined by great reputations, high ratings, and overall positive feedback from participants. This, paired with quality program itineraries, results in educated nursing students who gain an exceptional ability to help their patients.

Participating in the best programs can result in gaining skills and knowledge, developing a community and network, exploring new things, and experiencing authentic travel experiences. The end results make the investment in a study abroad program more than worth it.

For example, International Medical Aid tailors programs to each individual’s goals, utilizes the expertise and mentorship of healthcare professionals, and offers 24/7 support. They even provide extras like gated housing, chef-prepared meals, and insurance.

High quality programs are well worth the program and travel fees involved and continue to contribute to the success of their students well after they have returned home.

11 best study abroad programs for nursing students

Check out these top study abroad programs for nursing students, which come recommended by previous students!

1. Nursing/Pre-Nursing Internships Abroad

• Why? International Medical Aid (IMA) provides catered experiences to its participants, so you’re sure to reach your professional and personal goals with this program. Developed at Johns Hopkins, your program will be fully immersive and include job shadowing, real clinical work, and mentorship by experienced medical professionals.
• In your free time, go on safari and participate in other activities with trusted guides. IMA offers 24/7 support and admissions consulting services—they’ll help you distinguish your application to graduate schools!
• Where? Multiple countries including Ecuador, Kenya, Peru, Colombia, Tanzania, Haiti, Rwanda, and Uganda
• Read International Medical Aid reviews

2. Shadow Doctors in Spain with Atlantis

• Why? Prepare yourself for a future in healthcare with this top program. By shadowing doctors of many specialties (with weekly rotations), you’ll get hands-on experience while building important relationships. You’ll also experience what it’s like to actually provide care to patients.
• Plus, you’ll get to participate in cultural activities in Spain! Learn the Spanish language, try all of the delicious tapas (Spanish appetizer or snack), see a Flamenco dance, and visit historic landmarks, museums, and more.
• Where? Spain
• Read Atlantis reviews

3. IES Abroad London – Health Practice & Policy

• Why? Study compelling and complex public health issues on a local to global scale in a diverse and dynamic city—London! You will earn academic credit in a supervised service learning placement and have the flexibility to also take an elective course.
• Explore the United Kingdom and participate in organized field trips to sites like Stonehenge, Edinburgh, and Stratford-upon-Avon. But wait, there’s more! In the final 8-10 days of the program, you’ll travel to Kingston, Jamaica for an intensive field study.
• Where? England with a trip to Jamaica at the end of the program
• Read IES reviews

4. USAC Costa Rica: San Ramón - Life & Health Sciences

• Why? The University Studies Abroad Consortium offers affordable and valuable programs and Costa Rica is an incredible location to study abroad. Its biodiversity, natural beauty, and lifestyle draw people from all over the world! Continue your medical and science courses while learning a bit of Spanish, taking in your tropical surroundings, and enjoying life in a small, friendly town.
• Where? Costa Rica
• Read USAC reviews

5. SIT Study Abroad: IHP Health and Community

• Why? Learn not just about healthcare, but about health inequities, community wellbeing, and other factors affecting human health around the world with SIT Study Abroad. Offered in multiple locations across the globe, you’ll get to practice healthcare and do research in a variety of different contexts.
• Healthcare leaders and local experts will provide you with invaluable knowledge and insight. You’ll also get to explore how cultural beliefs can influence the health of individuals and communities.
• Where? Argentina, India, South Africa, USA
• Read SIT Study Abroad reviews

6. Nutrition & Natural Medicine in Peru

• Why? Picture yourself in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Peru, participating in the Nutrition and Natural Medicine Program while exploring the Peruvian Andes. Learn about Andean medicine, herbalism, and nutrition, and visit world-renowned destinations like Machu Picchu. This program will provide a holistic perspective on healthcare which you’ll be able to put to good use in your future studies and career.
• Where? Peru
• Read Linguistic Horizons reviews

7. Global Health in Cordoba, Argentina

• Why? You’ll be making a positive impact on the local community when studying nursing and medicine in Cordoba, Argentina with Child Family Health International. A large percentage of the population does not have health insurance and you’ll be able to learn more about public health policies, challenges, and how they are being addressed in Argentina. From daily patient rounds to conversational Spanish, your days will be full of experiential learning opportunities and immersion in a unique South American culture.
• Where? Argentina
• Read Child Family Health International reviews

8. Summer Study in Ireland with World Endeavors

• Why? If you don’t have a whole semester or year to pursue nursing study abroad programs, consider a shorter-term summer program. With a summer study program in Ireland, you’ll get the benefits of learning about healthcare in a new setting while being surrounded by rolling green hills, stunning coastlines, and a truly one-of-a-kind community. Enjoy the music, folklore, and hospitality of Ireland during one of the most magical times to visit!
• Where? Ireland
• Read World Endeavors reviews

9. Shadow Doctors in Italy's Best Hospitals - 40 to 90 Hours

• Why? Another great short program is the Doctors in Italy Fellowship Program. You’ll gain three credits at JCU while participating in an intensive shadowing experience at Italy’s top hospitals over the course of two to five weeks. Weekly group dinners, weekend excursions, and cultural activities with new international friends make this a great choice for those who want a more social experience!
• Where? Italy
• Read Doctors in Italy Fellowship Program reviews

10. Arcos Learning Abroad in Oaxaca, Mexico

• Why? An incredible, authentic study abroad experience, Arcos Learning Abroad offers a homestay program in the city of Oaxaca, Mexico, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which will truly be unforgettable. Explore the ancient ruins of the city while getting to know your host family and learning more about your chosen field. Hike in the Sierra Norte mountains, try the local mole (sauce) at a neighborhood restaurant, and take in the indigenous art scene during your free time.
• Where? Mexico
• Read Arcos Learning Abroad reviews

11. TEAN - New Zealand - Victoria University of Wellington

• Why? You may be familiar with New Zealand’s natural beauty, but in Wellington, you’ll also be exposed to a quaint and quirky college town with lots of character! Attend a renowned university while expanding your international network and what it means to be a Kiwi (what New Zealanders are fondly referred to). The inviting town of Wellington is looking forward to welcoming future nursing students!
• Where? New Zealand
• Read The Education Abroad Network reviews

Explore ALL Nursing Study Abroad Programs on GoAbroad.com

Your nursing study abroad program will get you the practical experience you need

Study abroad is for everyone—don’t skip this experience!

Study abroad programs for nursing students offer a way for you, a student and professional, but also a curious, intelligent person seeking to discover more of the world, a way to do just that. There is no better time than now to visit your dream destination, but more than that, to live, study, and experience daily life there.

To truly experience a place, you need to spend time there, immersing yourself in the culture and seeing it as only a member of its community can. You’ll be a better healthcare professional after studying abroad as a nursing student!

Compare Nursing Study Abroad Programs Side-by-Side with MyGoAbroad!

This article was written with help from International Medical Aid, who also provided all photos seen above. IMA is a not-for-profit organization that offers medical programs for students in places like East Africa, South America, and the Caribbean through an ethics-based approach to care. They offer summer, fall, and winter programs.