English proficiency plays an important role in nursing education because nursing students are required to access academic resources, understand medical terminology, and communicate effectively in educational and professional contexts. However, learning English remains challenging for many nursing students who study it as a foreign language. This study aimed to explore the challenges experienced by nursing students in learning English within their academic environment. A qualitative research design was employed, involving five nursing students from the Nursing Study Program at Universitas Katolik Indonesia Santu Paulus Ruteng. The participants were selected using purposive sampling, and data were collected through semi-structured interviews. The data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) thematic analysis. The findings revealed four major challenges: difficulties in understanding medical English vocabulary, lack of confidence in speaking English, limited opportunities to practice English due to academic workload, and challenges in utilizing English learning resources effectively. These challenges influenced students’ participation, comprehension of learning materials, and engagement in English learning activities. The study suggests the need for supportive instructional strategies, contextualized English materials, and increased opportunities for meaningful language practice to enhance nursing students’ English learning experiences.
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