An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) is one of the fastest ways for foreign-trained doctors to continue their commitment to patient care while building a meaningful career in the U.S. healthcare system. Many internationally trained physicians face significant challenges in obtaining a medical license in the United States, but they can take full advantage of their skillset and medical knowledge to become registered nurses (RNs) more quickly.
The Nursing Program for Foreign Medical Graduates & Physicians at FVI School of Nursing and Technology provides a structured path into nursing that requires less time and fewer barriers than becoming a licensed physician in the U.S. Many foreign medical graduates are able to complete the ASN program in less time than the standard 22-month timeline by transferring their previous coursework and clinical experience.
Why Foreign-Trained Doctors Choose Nursing in the U.S.
- Foreign doctors can continue working in the medical field without having to reinvest countless years in medical training.
- A more affordable option compared to enrolling in medical school in the U.S.
- Less intense training programs, particularly for bilingual medical professionals.
- Acclimate to English medical jargon as a nurse. For those hoping to eventually practice as a physician again, nursing provides an introduction into the English medical field & will allow you to gain fluency and confidence in your communication – all while practicing medicine and providing a career.
- A faster route to re-entering the healthcare industry, especially when compared to the physician licensing process in the U.S.
- Increased job opportunities in the growing field of nursing, with high demand across hospitals, clinics, and specialized care facilities.
- Better work-life balance compared to the pressures and demands of being a physician.
Challenges of Becoming a Doctor in the U.S.
Many foreign-trained doctors face significant hurdles in becoming licensed physicians in the U.S. The process is lengthy, expensive, and highly competitive, which is why many internationally trained medical professionals choose nursing as a practical and rewarding alternative.
U.S. Citizens Who Trained in a Foreign Medical School:
- Must pass all three steps of the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination).
- Must secure a medical residency, which is extremely competitive, especially for International Medical Graduates (IMGs).
- Residency match rates for IMGs are lower than those for U.S.-trained medical graduates, making it difficult to obtain a placement.
- Some states have licensing restrictions for foreign-trained doctors, adding more complexity to the process.
Non-Citizens Who Trained as Doctors in Other Countries:
- Must pass the USMLE and secure a residency, just like U.S. citizens trained abroad.
- Must navigate visa and work authorization issues, as many residency programs do not sponsor visas.
- May require a J-1 visa waiver if they trained in the U.S., which often requires them to work in underserved areas for several years.
Why Becoming an RN is a More Accessible and Reliable Path
For foreign-trained doctors who want to return to the medical field quickly, becoming an RN through an ASN program is a far more practical and accessible option.
- The NCLEX-RN exam is much more straightforward than the USMLE.
- There is no need to compete for a limited number of residency slots—once licensed, RNs can start working immediately.
- Easier visa sponsorship for nursing roles compared to physician positions, making it a more accessible career path for foreign-trained doctors who are not yet U.S. citizens.
- Strong job demand for RNs in the U.S., with greater opportunities to enter the workforce quickly.
- Lower financial burden compared to investing in years of re-education to become a licensed physician in the U.S.
Foreign-trained doctors who enroll in FVI’s nursing program for foreign doctors in South Florida can start working as soon as they pass the NCLEX-RN and obtain RN licensure, significantly reducing the time it takes to return to the medical field.
Transitioning from Physician to Nurse for Immigrant Doctors
Though most consider a nursing program for foreign-educated doctors to be a valuable opportunity, some physicians may initially see it as a “step down” in their career. However, for many, this concern is temporary.
In an article by The Atlantic, it was noted that many foreign-trained doctors find fulfillment in their new nursing careers:
“What we’re hearing from them is that they actually really, really enjoy the role of nurse practitioner in the United States because it’s more like the way they practiced in their home countries.”
– Maria Olenick, Program Director at Florida International University
Medical professionals have a desire to help others, and that is not something that disappears overnight. In fact, a move to a new country may even increase that desire. A return to what you know, love, and understand is often the best way to overcome culture shock and maintain your life’s purpose.
The U.S. healthcare system already relies heavily on foreign-born medical professionals. In South Florida, many doctors and nurses originally came from Asia, South America, and other international regions, making it an inclusive and diverse field.
“With the increasing diversity of the U.S. population, it’s important our healthcare workforce reflect that diversity. Certain patients, such as immigrants or those who speak a different language, may prefer or do better with doctors born outside the U.S. due to cultural or language factors.”
– Dr. Vineet Arora, University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine
Start Your Nursing Career with FVI
At FVI School of Nursing and Technology, we have helped many foreign-trained doctors successfully transition into nursing, allowing them to return to healthcare faster and with greater career stability.
✔ Flexible learning options designed for career changers
✔ Accelerated nursing programs that can be completed in less time for those with prior medical training
✔ Hands-on training and clinical experience at high-quality healthcare facilities
✔ NCLEX preparation resources, including a NCLEX review course, to support graduates in passing the exam
✔ Guidance on student visas and employment opportunities for international students
Learn more about our Florida Nursing Program for Foreign Medical Graduates & Physicians and other healthcare programs by contacting us today! We have nursing programs in Miramar and nursing programs in Miami.
If you’re a foreign-trained medical professional looking to start a rewarding career in nursing, apply now and take the next step toward becoming a Registered Nurse (RN).
Sources
- Sophie Quinton & National Journal, The Atlantic – How Immigrant Doctors Became America’s Next Generation of Nurses
- Lisa Rapaport, Reuters ¬¬– S. relies heavily on foreign-born healthcare worker
