So you want to be a nurse?
Each different path of entry to nursing has different arrangements.
For Diploma courses, all students receive a non-means tested bursary of £4,800 per year. Additional allowances may be payable to you if you are over 26 years when your course begins, or if you are a single parent or have adult dependants. Your course fees will be paid in full by the NHS.
For Degree courses, students may receive a mean-tested Bursary and a student loan. The rules for eligibility are complicated, and you should check with the NHS Student Grants Unit and the Department of Health (see Contacts page) exactly what you may be eligible for. Your course fees should be paid in full by the NHS, unless you are a non-EU national and usually live outside the UK. Your chosen university's Admissions Office will be able to assist you with details.
Existing NHS staff can apply to be seconded to nursing courses, and you may be able to keep your NHS salary whilst you are studying. Ask your local manager or Personnel manager for details.
NHS starting salaries once qualified will exceed £15,000 for 2001, more if you work in London.
The NHS offers a range of other employment benefits: a 37.5 hour week is standard for full-time working, but many other part-time or flexible options exist to suit personal circumstances. Shift working is a feature of many nursing jobs.
NHS holidays are 25 working days a year, plus public holidays. There are full pension and other local benefits.
Nurses working outside the NHS will find that each employer sets their own salaries and benefit levels.
