Requirements to Study Nursing in Canada for international students

There has been an increased rave in the nursing career for a while now. To study nursing in Canada has become the lifelong dream of a lot of individuals because of the job security involved in that profession.

Nursing is a very lucrative course in Canada and the world at large. Nursing programs in Canada are a 4-year regular degree program. Some top universities offer BSc Nursing as an accelerated program spanning 1.8 to 3.5 years. The healthcare sector in Canada has a shortage of medical practitioners and nurses are on the shortage list so studying nursing in Canada holds a lot of benefits.

In this article, you will learn more about how to study Nursing in Canada from the universities to the requirements to study nursing in canada for international students as well as the career prospects after studying Nursing. Follow us as we show you the steps to achieve your study goals.

Learn more: Study Nursing in USA

Overview of nursing as a career in Canada

One of the study abroad checklist for Nigerian Students is the career prospect after study. It is not enough to study a course, what is important is the lucrativeness of the course after study. Can the course provide for you and your family? Can it give you the financial satisfaction you desire?

I am pleased to announce to you that Nursing degrees in Canada can give you the financial stability you desire. Come work with us to achieve this.

Reasons to study nursing in Canada 

There are several reasons to study nursing in Canada. Some of them are:

• High-quality programs: Nursing schools in Canada always offer high-quality education because they believe it is the bedrock of Canadian healthcare. Be rest assured that no stone will be left unturned to offer their students top-notch education.
• Internship opportunities: Another reason to study nursing in Canada is the internship opportunities available. The average salary for a Student Nurse Intern is $45,975 per year in Canada which is more than some full professionals get paid in a year so why not?
• Top-ranked universities: You get the opportunity to study from reputable universities whose certificates are accepted all over the world. Nothing beats that, right?
• Good job prospects and salaries; This is a major reason for some. Nursing is quite lucrative in Canada. The average nurse salary in Canada is $76,031 per year or $38.99 per hour. Entry-level positions start at $59,875 per year, while most experienced workers make up to $105,477 per year.

Universities Offering Nursing Programs In Canada

There are several Nursing universities in Canada where a Nigerian student can get the best of nursing education.

• University Of British Columbia
• University of Toronto
• McGill University
• McMaster University
• University of Alberta
• University of Ottawa
• University of Calgary
• Western University
• Dalhousie University
• University of Manitoba

Learn more: ⁠Universities that accept low GPA for Masters in Canada

Nursing courses in Canada  

Programs at Bachelor’s level:

The average salary for an RN with a BSN will typically trend higher than salaries for RNs without a bachelor’s degree. Earning a BSN also opens the door to advanced educational opportunities and career growth down the road.

The duration of the course is 4 years. You need to have a GPA equivalent of 65-85% in higher secondary to be admitted. The total annual tuition fees of the top universities for BSc Nursing in Canada range from 25,000 CAD to 50,000 CAD

Master’s programs:

The MSN program is about 24 months. Normally, the basic requirement is a bachelor’s degree in nursing from an approved or accredited university. A minimum average of 75% or a grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 (B) in the last twenty courses of a bachelor’s nursing program is required. The cost of studying MSc in Nursing in Canada for Nigerian students is around 10,000- 30,000 CAD per annum.

PhD programs:

To study Ph.D. nursing in Canada, you need the following to qualify:

• Master’s degree in nursing science or equivalent, and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited university.
• Minimum overall average equivalent to B+.
• Two academic letters of reference (e.g. course professors).
• Statement of Interest

The tuition cost for PhD in nursing is between 10,000 to 20,000 CAD per annum.

Eligibility and Admission Process to Study Nursing in Canada

There are some nursing requirements in Canada for international students to meet before they can study in Canada.

Criteria for bachelor’s: A GPA equivalent of 65-85% in higher secondary is required to be admitted.

Criteria for master’s: You will need a bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited university. A minimum average of 75% or a grade point average (GPA) of 3.0

Criteria for PhD:     

Master’s degree in nursing science or equivalent, and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited university. Minimum overall average equivalent to B+ (GPA) of 3.3

Program details 

B.Sc.Nursing in Canada is a 4-year regular degree program in Canada. Master is about 24 months while PhD is between 4 to 6 years.

The tuition fees range from CAD 53,000 per annum, Master’s programs will cost you around CAD 80,000 per annum while PhD will be about CAD 12,000 per annum

Cost of studying nursing in Canada 

The cost of getting a Nursing degree in Canada ranges from CAD 12,000 to CAD 80,000

The living expenses are about CAD 15,000 per year for nursing students

Admission process for international students to Study Nursing in Canada

The admission process for International students is not difficult as long as you have the required documents and grades.

Language requirements like IELTS/TOEFL

The IELTS requirement for nursing in Canada is a minimum of 6.5 and the TOEFL  minimum of 90

Required documents

• Official academic transcripts of the previous education.
• Language Proficiency Test Scores
• A verified certificate of clear criminal record
• A valid nursing license
• 2 to 3 Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Curriculum vitae (CV)

Learn more: Study Abroad Checklist 

Career prospects after studying nursing in Canada

Licensing process

To get nursing licensing in Canada, you must fulfill the following requirements:

Nursing Education

You must demonstrate the successful completion of a nursing education program designed to prepare you for the type of nursing (RN or RPN) that you want to practice in Ontario.

Evidence of Practice

You must show that you have recent experience practicing as a nurse.

Registration Examination

You must complete the registration examination approved by the College for the type of nursing (RN or RPN) you want to practice.

Jurisprudence Examination

You must complete the RN/RPN Jurisprudence Examination.

Proficiency in English or French

You must demonstrate proficiency in either English or French by writing tests and submitting your scores.

Citizenship

You must be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident of Canada, or hold authorization under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (Canada) to engage in the practice of nursing in Ontario.

Past Offences and Findings

You must truthfully state whether you have ever been found guilty of an offense, refused registration, had a finding related to the practice of nursing or another profession against you, or are involved in certain proceedings.

Health and Conduct

You must declare whether you suffer from any physical or mental condition or disorder that could affect your ability to practice nursing safely.

Job roles and average salaries

The RNs assist in surgery, treatments, monitoring, or operating medical apparatus.

The average salary for a new graduate nurse in Canada is $80,126 per year or $41.09 per hour. Entry-level nurses in Canada earn $59,875 per year. This is a lucrative opportunity and we can help you achieve this. Reach out to know more.

Read Also: Job Search Tips for Ghanaians

Scholarship programs to study nursing in Canada

Here is a list of some scholarship programs that can help you study nursing in Canada for free

• Education Future International Scholarship – USA & Non-USA 2024
• GSLS Travel Fellowships by University of Würzburg 2024
• Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) Program 2024
• Canadian Nurses Foundation (Internationally Educated Nursing Award

Tips for applying to nursing colleges in Canada

First of all, you need to research the school you are interested in and ensure you have the necessary grade. Secondly, take the Casper test. Thirdly, apply to the school of your choice.

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FAQs about nursing education in Canada 

How much will it cost to study nursing in Canada? The tuition fees range from CAD 53,000 per annum, Master’s programs will cost you around  CAD 80,000 per annum while PhD will be about CAD 12,000 per annum

What are the requirements for nursing courses in Canada?

Requirements to study nursing in Canada for international students include

• Having a minimum GPA of 3.0 for bachelors and 3.3 for Masters
• Having a minimum IELTS score of 6.5
• Transcript from previous school

And some more documents.

Is there a 2-year nursing degree in Canada?

Yes, there is a 2-year nursing program in Canada for international students

How can I become a nurse in Canada from Nigeria?

You have to research the school you want to attend, gather the needed documents, and then apply.

What is the age limit for nursing in Canada?

There is no specific age restriction for pursuing a career in Canada.

How many years is nursing in Canada?

It depends, from 4- 6 years depending on your level of study.

Is nursing well-paid in Canada?

Yes, it is a lucrative occupation.

Do nursing students get paid in Canada?

The national average salary for a Student nurse is $43,175 in Canada.

Is it difficult to study nursing in Canada?

Studying nursing at a Canadian university can be challenging, but it is achievable.

Conclusion 

The skill to save lives is an important skill to have. Knowing that you can help save a life as a nurse is a rewarding and satisfying experience. Studying nursing in Canada holds a lot of opportunities for Nigerian students. Do you need further help to achieve your dreams? Book a free consultation with us to get started