Nursing international student mobility in the University of São Paulo.

OBJECTIVE: To characterize the experiences of undergraduate students of the School of Nursing of the University of São Paulo (EEUSP) who participated in international mobility programs between January 2011 and July 2017.

METHOD: Exploratory, descriptive study with quantitative approach. Of 68 reports, only 38 (56%) were considered valid and were submitted to descriptive statistical analysis. Data were categorized in general, institutional, academic and cultural aspects and cost of living.

RESULTS: The main destination was Portugal and the years with most participation were 2012 and 2013. The mean stay was six months and the students took a mean of three to four courses. The main funder was the university of origin.

CONCLUSION: Academic activities were limited to theoretical and practical courses, with little insertion in research. There is a need to increase investment in learning other languages and to expand partnerships with larger centers of foreign education and research.