Quick Answer: Portsmouth offers excellent nursing programs at the University of Portsmouth with fees around £14,000-£16,500 for international students and IELTS 6.0-7.0 requirements. The city provides affordable living costs (£800-£1,200/month) and strong NHS placement opportunities with 95% graduate employment rates.

Why Choose Portsmouth for Nursing Studies?

Portsmouth stands out as an exceptional destination for nursing education, combining academic excellence with practical experience opportunities. The city's strategic coastal location, vibrant student community, and strong healthcare sector connections make it an ideal choice for aspiring nurses from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nigeria, and other international destinations.

This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about pursuing nursing in Portsmouth, from university options and fees to living costs and career prospects in 2026.

Top Universities for Nursing in Portsmouth

University of Portsmouth - School of Health Sciences and Social Work

The University of Portsmouth leads nursing education in the city, offering comprehensive programs designed to meet modern healthcare demands. Their nursing courses are fully accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and provide excellent clinical placement opportunities.

Programs Available:

• Adult Nursing BSc (Hons) - 3 years
• Mental Health Nursing BSc (Hons) - 3 years
• Children's Nursing BSc (Hons) - 3 years
• Learning Disabilities Nursing BSc (Hons) - 3 years
• Registered Nurse Degree Apprenticeship - 3 years
• Nursing with Foundation Year - 4 years

The university maintains strong partnerships with local NHS trusts including Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust and Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, ensuring students gain hands-on experience in real healthcare settings.

Portsmouth College (Further Education)

For students seeking alternative pathways, Portsmouth College offers Access to Higher Education diplomas in Health and Social Care, which serve as excellent preparation for university nursing programs.

Entry Requirements for Nursing Programs

Academic Requirements

For BSc Nursing Programs:

• A-Levels: BBC-ABB (104-128 UCAS points)
• International Baccalaureate: 26-30 points
• Pakistani students: FSc with 65-70% minimum
• Indian students: CBSE/ISC 70-75% in relevant subjects
• Nigerian students: WAEC with B grades in 5 subjects
• Bangladeshi students: HSC with GPA 4.0-4.5

Essential Subjects:

• Biology or Human Biology (preferred)
• Chemistry or Psychology (recommended)
• Mathematics and English Language (minimum Grade C/4)

English Language Requirements

IELTS Requirements:

• Overall: 7.0
• Writing: 6.5
• Reading: 6.5
• Listening: 6.5
• Speaking: 6.5

Alternative Qualifications:

• TOEFL iBT: 94 overall (Writing 20, Reading 20, Listening 20, Speaking 20)
• PTE Academic: 67 overall (Writing 62, Reading 62, Listening 62, Speaking 62)
• Cambridge C1 Advanced: 185 overall

Additional Requirements

Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check: All nursing students must obtain an enhanced DBS check before starting clinical placements.

Health Screening:

• Occupational health assessment
• Immunization records (MMR, Hepatitis B, Tuberculosis screening)
• Physical and mental fitness assessment

Interview Process: Most programs require a formal interview or assessment day to evaluate:

• Communication skills
• Commitment to nursing
• Understanding of the profession
• Problem-solving abilities

Tuition Fees and Financial Information

University of Portsmouth Nursing Fees (2026/27)

UK Students:

• Tuition Fees: £9,250 per year
• NHS Learning Support Fund: Up to £5,000-£8,000 per year (non-repayable)

International Students:

• Tuition Fees: £14,500-£16,500 per year
• Laboratory/Clinical Fees: £500-£1,000 per year
• Registration Fees: £200-£300 per year

Additional Costs:

• Textbooks and Materials: £300-£500 per year
• Uniform and Equipment: £200-£400 per year
• NMC Registration (Final Year): £120
• Professional Insurance: £30-£50 per year

Scholarships and Financial Support

International Scholarships:

• Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship: Up to 25% tuition fee reduction
• Portsmouth Global Scholarship: £2,000-£4,000
• Commonwealth Scholarships (for eligible countries): Full funding available
• Country-specific scholarships for Pakistani, Indian, and Nigerian students

Living in Portsmouth: Student Life and Costs

Cost of Living Breakdown

Accommodation:

• University Halls: £140-£180 per week
• Private Shared Accommodation: £100-£150 per week
• Studio Apartments: £180-£250 per week
• Home-stay Options: £120-£160 per week

Living Expenses (Monthly):

• Food and Groceries: £200-£350
• Transport: £50-£80
• Mobile Phone: £20-£40
• Entertainment: £80-£150
• Personal Items: £50-£100
• Total Monthly Living Cost: £800-£1,200

Transportation in Portsmouth

Portsmouth's compact size makes it highly walkable, with excellent transport links:

Public Transport:

• FirstBus Portsmouth: Student discounts available
• Monthly bus pass: £45-£55
• Cycling: Popular and cost-effective option
• Portsmouth Harbour railway station: Direct links to London (90 minutes)

Student Discounts:

• 16-25 Railcard: 1/3 off train fares
• Student bus passes: Up to 20% discount
• Bike rental schemes available

Student Life and Activities

Portsmouth offers a vibrant student experience with:

Cultural Attractions:

• Historic Dockyard and HMS Victory
• Spinnaker Tower with panoramic views
• Southsea Beach and waterfront
• Numerous museums and galleries

Healthcare Student Community:

• Nursing Society events and networking
• Healthcare simulation facilities
• Regular guest lectures from NHS professionals
• Clinical skills competitions and workshops

Career Prospects and Employment

Graduate Employment Rates

University of Portsmouth nursing graduates enjoy exceptional employment prospects:

• 95% employment rate within 6 months of graduation
• 88% work in healthcare settings
• Starting salaries: £24,907-£30,615 (NHS Band 5)

Career Pathways

Immediate Opportunities:

• Staff Nurse positions in NHS trusts
• Private healthcare facilities
• Community nursing roles
• Specialist areas (ICU, Emergency, Pediatrics)

Long-term Career Development:

• Senior Staff Nurse (Band 6): £32,306-£39,027
• Charge Nurse/Ward Manager (Band 7): £40,057-£45,839
• Advanced Practice roles (Band 8): £47,126+
• Nurse Consultant positions
• Academic and research opportunities

International Recognition

UK nursing qualifications are internationally recognized, opening opportunities in:

• Australia and New Zealand (with additional registration)
• Canada and USA (with bridging programs)
• Middle East healthcare sectors
• International aid organizations

Application Process and Timeline

UCAS Application Timeline

September 2025: Applications open January 15, 2026: Nursing application deadline March-May 2026: Interview invitations and offers May-August 2026: Firm choice deadline and results September 2026: Course commencement

Application Requirements

1. UCAS Application: Complete online application
2. Personal Statement: 4,000 characters highlighting nursing motivation
3. Academic Transcripts: Certified English translations required
4. References: Academic and/or professional references
5. English Language Certificates: Valid IELTS or equivalent
6. Work Experience: Healthcare-related experience preferred

International Student Visa Requirements

Student Visa (Tier 4) Requirements:

• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
• Financial evidence: £1,334 per month for living costs
• Tuberculosis test (for certain countries)
• Academic qualifications recognition

For those exploring different healthcare pathways, you can browse UK courses to discover additional medical and health science programs across various universities.

Conclusion

Nursing in Portsmouth presents an outstanding opportunity for international students seeking quality education, practical experience, and excellent career prospects. With competitive fees, comprehensive support systems, and a vibrant coastal city lifestyle, Portsmouth delivers exceptional value for aspiring healthcare professionals in 2026 and beyond.

Key Statistics

📊 95% of University of Portsmouth nursing graduates find employment within 6 months of completing their degree in 2026

💰 International nursing students pay £14,500-£16,500 annual tuition fees at Portsmouth universities in 2026

🎓 IELTS 7.0 overall with 6.5 in all components required for nursing programs at University of Portsmouth

🏠 Monthly living costs in Portsmouth range from £800-£1,200 for international students including accommodation and expenses

📈 NHS Band 5 starting salaries for newly qualified nurses range from £24,907-£30,615 in 2026

🌍 Portsmouth nursing degrees are NMC-accredited and internationally recognized in Australia, Canada, and the Middle East

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I apply for nursing programs in Portsmouth as an international student?

Apply through UCAS by January 15, 2026 for September entry. You'll need certified academic transcripts, IELTS 7.0 results, a compelling personal statement, and references. After submitting your UCAS application, you may be invited for an interview. Once accepted, you'll receive a CAS letter for your student visa application.

What are the entry requirements for nursing at University of Portsmouth?

You need BBC-ABB A-levels (or equivalent international qualifications), IELTS 7.0 with 6.5 in all components, and preferably biology or human biology. Pakistani students need FSc with 65-70%, Indian students require CBSE/ISC 70-75%, and Nigerian students need WAEC with B grades in 5 subjects. All students must pass health screening and DBS checks.

How much does it cost to study nursing in Portsmouth including living expenses?

International students pay £14,500-£16,500 annual tuition fees plus £500-£1,000 for clinical/lab fees. Monthly living costs range from £800-£1,200 including accommodation (£140-£180/week in halls), food (£200-£350/month), and transport (£50-£80/month). Total annual cost is approximately £24,000-£30,000.

What career prospects do Portsmouth nursing graduates have?

Portsmouth nursing graduates have excellent prospects with 95% employment within 6 months. Starting NHS salaries range from £24,907-£30,615 (Band 5), with progression to Band 6 (£32,306-£39,027) and Band 7 management roles (£40,057-£45,839). Graduates work in NHS trusts, private healthcare, community nursing, and specialist areas like ICU and emergency departments.

Is the University of Portsmouth nursing degree internationally recognized?

Yes, University of Portsmouth nursing degrees are NMC-accredited and internationally recognized. Graduates can work in Australia and New Zealand with additional registration, pursue bridging programs for Canada and USA, find opportunities in Middle East healthcare, and work with international aid organizations. The UK nursing qualification is highly respected globally.

What is student life like for nursing students in Portsmouth?

Portsmouth offers excellent student life with its coastal location, historic attractions like HMS Victory, and vibrant healthcare student community. The city is compact and walkable with good transport links to London. Students enjoy nursing society events, clinical skills workshops, simulation facilities, and regular NHS professional guest lectures. The healthcare student community is particularly strong and supportive.

Key Takeaways

✅ University of Portsmouth offers NMC-accredited nursing programs with 95% graduate employment rates and £14,500-£16,500 annual international fees

✅ Entry requires IELTS 7.0 overall, BBC-ABB A-levels or equivalent international qualifications, plus health screening and DBS checks

✅ Portsmouth provides affordable living costs (£800-£1,200/month) with excellent transport links and coastal city lifestyle

✅ NHS Band 5 starting salaries range from £24,907-£30,615 with clear progression pathways to senior roles and international opportunities

✅ Strong clinical placement partnerships with local NHS trusts provide hands-on experience in real healthcare settings throughout the degree