Nursing students across Canada are struggling with financial barriers that threaten their ability to complete their studies. A new national survey from Viewpoints Research, the Canadian Federation of Nurses Unions (CFNU) and the Canadian Nursing Students’ Association (CNSA) sheds light on these challenges – and what can be done to support future nurses.
Nursing students are committed but need more support.
89% of nursing students intend to work full-time after graduation, and 76% intend to work in their province of origin.
As part of their program, nursing students are expected to complete unpaid clinical placements. Paying students for these placements is a crucial step toward reducing financial stress and keeping more students on track to become overwhelming nurses. An overwhelming 92% of nursing students would support this change.
Financial barriers are holding back future nurses.
Financial strain is a barrier to completing nursing students completing their studies; some are considering leaving the field before they’ve completed their program.
- 82% of students are concerned about their finances
- 60% feel that current financial support measures are inadequate
- 28% have considered dropping out or transferring out of their program due to financial difficulties. The pressure is especially intense for those working full-time while studying; nearly half (47%) have thought about leaving their program.
Addressing these financial barriers is critical to securing Canada’s nursing workforce. Read our full report to learn more.
Sharing findings
CFNU and CNSA pushed these results into the public realm through our full report, shared through their website, social media, and during CNSA’s conference. They’ve pushed for meaningful change to support recruitment efforts and to stabilize the health workforce crisis.
Viewpoints was honoured to be a partner on this project.