Paying for Nursing School

A career in nursing can change your life for the better, providing the job security and sense of purpose you desire. But, as with most career goals, access to the required education and training is often a significant barrier. Difficulty paying for nursing school shouldn’t stop you from pursuing your career goals, and this section will help you explore your financing options.

Tuition and associated costs nursing school primarily depend on whether you choose a community college, public university, or private institution. A four-year degree at a private college costs roughly twice as much as a four-year degree from a public university, for instance. You also need to consider the region where the school is located, as a school in New York City will undoubtedly cost more than one in rural Indiana.

In addition to tuition, you’ll also need to factor in the cost of uniforms or scrubs, books, drug screenings, transportation to and from clinicals, and payment for the NCLEX exam (for RNs). If you have children or other family obligations, you’ll need to consider those costs as well. Of course, you’ll also need to keep in mind the significant time commitment of nursing school that will reduce your ability to work while you study.

Paying for Nursing School: Your Options

Figuring out how to bankroll your career, whether you’re just starting out or switching fields entirely, is an important first step. Thankfully there are numerous options to help you finance your nursing education. Here are just a few.

Nursing School Scholarships

Scholarships sometimes cover the entire amount of tuition, but typically just a portion. You’ll want to spend some time researching the various scholarship opportunities available to you, based on your income level or other considerations. It’s important to remember that you can apply for scholarships even if you’ve already started your nursing program.

Tuition Reimbursement

If you already work in healthcare, your employer may be willing to invest in your continuing education. If you’re a valued CNA at a skilled nursing facility, for instance, your employer may want to invest in your transition to an LPN role by paying for your education.

Financial Aid

Student loans are another popular option for financing your nursing education, but you need to be savvy about your ability to repay them. Interest rates, repayment schedules, and other factors can mean the difference between paying them off relatively quickly and being saddled with monthly payments for years to come.

Don’t Let Tuition Stand in the Way of Your Career

Don’t be discouraged from embarking on this exciting and rewarding career. No single approach to paying for nursing school works for everyone, so make sure you take the time to find the solution that best fits your needs and goals. The articles in this section can help you find your way.