Michigan Language Assessment to Convene Global Experts on U.S. Nursing Shortage at May 2026 Symposium

The United States continues to face a critical nursing shortage, placing increasing pressure on healthcare systems, providers, and patient outcomes. Addressing this challenge requires more than short-term fixes—it calls for long-term, global collaboration across healthcare, education, and policy.

Internationally trained nurses are an essential part of the solution. However, the pathway to working in the U.S. is often complex, involving credential evaluation, licensure requirements, immigration processes, and proof of English proficiency. Navigating these steps can be a barrier for qualified professionals who are ready to contribute to the workforce.

To address these challenges and explore actionable solutions, Michigan Language Assessment is hosting the Global Solutions to the U.S. Nursing Shortage Symposium May 13-14, 2026.

About the Event

This two-day virtual symposium will bring together leaders and experts from across the healthcare and international education sectors to discuss strategies for strengthening the U.S. nursing workforce through global collaboration.

Attendees will gain insights into:

• U.S. nursing licensure pathways for internationally trained professionals
• Policy considerations and evolving workforce needs
• Recruitment strategies and ethical international hiring practices
• The role of education and credentialing organizations
• How English language proficiency supports safe, effective patient care

The event is designed for a wide range of stakeholders, including healthcare employers, policymakers, educators, recruiters, and internationally trained nurses themselves.

Healthcare Symposium Participating Organizations

The symposium will feature perspectives from a range of organizations involved in healthcare workforce development, credentialing, and international recruitment. Participating organizations include:

• Healthcare systems and employers across the United States
• U.S. Boards of Nursing and regulatory stakeholders
• Credential evaluation organizations and workforce support programs
• International education and recruitment partners
• English language assessment providers, including Michigan Language Assessment

Together, these groups will provide a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of nursing in the U.S.

The Role of English Proficiency in Healthcare

One of the key components of this conversation is English language proficiency. For internationally trained nurses, the ability to communicate clearly and effectively is essential—not only for meeting licensure requirements, but for ensuring patient safety and delivering high-quality care.

The Michigan English Test (MET) is accepted by many U.S. Boards of Nursing and is designed to assess real-world communication skills across reading, listening, writing, and speaking. With features like fast 5-day results, results that never expire, and single-skill retakes, MET offers a practical and accessible pathway for healthcare professionals working toward their goals.

By aligning language assessment with real-world demands, MET supports both test takers and the institutions that rely on strong communication in clinical environments.

Why This is an Important Conversation

Solving the U.S. nursing shortage is not a one-dimensional challenge. It requires coordination between systems, clarity in processes, and a shared commitment to supporting qualified professionals around the world.

This healthcare symposium provides a space for meaningful dialogue—bringing together the right voices to share insights, identify barriers, and move toward solutions that are both effective and sustainable.

Register for the Healthcare Symposium Now

Join leaders across healthcare, policy, and education for an important conversation on the future of the U.S. nursing workforce.

Learn more and register