Investing in the future of healthcare

International students contribute immensely to host countries, not just through tuition fees and living expenses, but also by enriching academic environments with diverse perspectives and helping to address critical workforce gaps, especially in nursing. Many international nursing graduates transition into skilled migrants, bolstering healthcare systems.

International students are a significant and growing presence in tertiary education globally, particularly in English-speaking countries like Australia, the UK, the USA, and Canada. Australia, for example, saw a record number of international enrolments in 2024. 

Despite their significant value and resilience, international nursing students frequently encounter substantial challenges during their studies. A scoping review explored the factors influencing their experiences and perceptions within learning environments. The review, Factors that influence international nursing students’ experiences and perceptions of their learning environments, highlights that common difficulties include language proficiency issues and difficulty with accents, cultural differences, and experiencing discrimination. These challenges can arise in both classroom and essential clinical placement settings. 

Compounding these issues is often inadequate support from mentors and academics, coupled with the demanding nature of nursing degrees. These factors can lead to distress, negatively impacting students' well-being, academic performance, and clinical competence.

The scoping review also identified factors that enhance international students' experiences. These include opportunities for language and cultural integration, fostering positive learning environments, and providing supportive resources. 

Academics have a positive influence, and strategies such as structured mentorship programs, peer networks, culturally safe environments, and resources such as teaching videos and faculty support are beneficial. Simulation activities are also seen as helpful in practicing skills.

An editorial reflecting on these findings emphasises the ethical responsibility that comes with enrolling international students. 

The benefits must flow in both directions, ensuring that the strategic investment not only strengthens health care workforces and, by extension, national economies, but also meets the personal and professional growth needs of each student.

Investing in international nursing students is an investment in the future of healthcare. 

The scoping review and accompanying editorial were published in the May issue of the peer-reviewed journal, JBI Evidence Synthesis to mark International Nurses Day. They are available at: 

Factors that influence international nursing students’ experiences and perceptions of their learning environments: a scoping review

Kalembo, Fatch Welcome; Wilson, Sally; Solomons, Terena; Ngune, Irene; Lim, Eric; Bosco, Anna; Kebble, Paul; Taplin, John; Brown, Janie 

JBI Evidence Synthesis. 23(5):840-875, May 2025.

The value and challenges of international nursing students: a call for better support

Brown, Janie; Lim, Eric; Wilson, Sally; Taplin, John; Solomons, Terena; Ngune, Irene; Kebble, Paul; Bosco, Anna; Kalembo, Fatch 

JBI Evidence Synthesis. 23(5):831-832, May 2025.