Bursary for Internationally Educated Nurses (BIEN)

The Bursary for Internationally Educated Nurses (BIEN) provides funding to internationally educated nurses as they complete the bridging training required to practise as a licensed practical nurse or a registered nurse, in exchange for a period of time spent working in rural Alberta. The BIEN Program offers up to $30,000 per learner based on the type and length of the bridging program in which the learner is enrolled. This bursary includes a $3,500 fixed incentive to cover associated fees, support for a portion of tuition based on length of program, and living expenses based on length of program. The bursary is offered with the expectation that licensing and rural employment, through a public or private provider, is secured within six months of completing an approved bridging program. Successful applicants must sign a return-in-service agreement to practise nursing in an eligible rural Alberta community. This return-in-service term will be calculated based on one year of full-time rural service for every $6,000 in bursary funding received.