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Pursuing a career in nursing can be both personally fulfilling and financially rewarding, but it also comes with significant upfront education costs. The price of nursing school varies widely depending on the degree level, institution type, and length of study. Understanding these costs ahead of time can help you plan realistically, compare programs, and avoid unnecessary debt.
Below we break down the average cost of nursing school by credential, explore additional fees students often overlook, and outline common ways nursing students pay for their education.
Key Points
• The total cost of nursing school varies significantly based on the degree level and whether the institution is public or private.
• ADN programs are the fastest and most affordable route to becoming an RN, while BSNs offer higher salaries and more career advancement opportunities.
• Graduate degrees like the MSN and DNP prepare nurses for advanced practice and leadership roles, commanding the highest average salaries.
• Beyond tuition, nursing students must budget for additional expenses, including uniforms, lab fees, and licensing exam costs.
• Financial aid options, including student loans, scholarships, grants, and specialized programs can help offset the cost of nursing education.
Typical Nursing School Costs and Salaries
Nursing education costs generally increase with each academic level, but so does earning potential. While you can access entry-level nursing roles with an associate degree, advanced degrees open the door to leadership, specialization, and higher salaries.
đź’ˇ Quick Tip: You can fund your education with a competitive-rate, no-fees-required private student loan that covers up to 100% of school-certified costs.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is one of the fastest and most affordable ways to become a registered nurse (RN). ADNs are offered by community colleges, private technical colleges, and some four‑year institutions, and typically take around two years to complete.
While ADN graduates often qualify for similar entry-level health care jobs as those with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), the salary is generally lower and there may be less opportunity for advancement. Also, some hospitals require nurses to have a BSN.
Average cost of an ADN at a public school:
• Annual tuition and fees: $3,000 – $12,000
• Annual room and board: $7,000 – $9,000
• Total cost for an ADN: $20,000 – $42,000
Average cost of an ADN at a private school:
• Annual tuition and fees: $15,000 – $30,000
• Annual room and board: $10,000 – $13,000+
• Total cost for an ADN: $50,000 – $86,000+
Average ADN salary: $81,000
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing is a four-year undergraduate degree that prepares students for Registered Nurse (RN) licensure and offers broader training in leadership, research, and public health. BSN programs are offered at public and private colleges nationwide.
BSN-prepared nurses often have access to more job opportunities, higher starting salaries, and greater long-term earning potential compared to nurses with ADNs.
Average cost of a BSN at a public school:
• Annual tuition and fees: $15,000 – $30,000
• Annual room and board: $12,000 – $14,000
• Total cost for a BSN: $108,000 – $176,000
Average cost of a BSN at a private school:
• Annual tuition and fees: $30,000 – $60,000+
• Annual room and board: $13,000 – $16,000
• Total cost for a BSN: $172,000 – $304,000+
Average BSN salary: $99,000
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a graduate-level degree that prepares registered nurses for advanced clinical practice, leadership, education, or administrative roles. For many nurses, an MSN is a gateway to advanced practice specialities, such as nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, clinical nurse specialist, or nurse anesthetist.
Depending on the school and entry point, students can pursue an MSN after a BSN or via an RN-to-MSN bridge program designed for nurses with an associate degree.
MSN programs typically take two years of full-time study to complete. Part-time options are also available for working nurses.
Average cost of an MSN at a public school:
• Annual tuition and fees: $10,000 – $30,000
• Total cost for an MSN degree: $20,000 – $60,000
Average cost of an MSN at a private school:
• Annual tuition and fees: $20,000 – $50,000+
• Total cost for an MSN degree: $40,000 – $100,000+
Average MSN salary: $109,000
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is an advanced degree for nurses who want to reach the highest level of clinical practice. Unlike research-focused doctoral degrees (such as a Ph.D. in Nursing), the DNP prepares nurses for leadership roles by focusing on applying research to improve patient care, quality, and health care systems,
DNP programs typically require two to three years of full-time study beyond a BSN, though some schools offer BSN-to-DNP pathways that can vary in length. Part-time options are also available for working nurses.
Average cost of a DNP at a public school:
• Annual tuition and fees: $20,000 – $45,000+
• Total cost for a DNP (three years): $60,000 – $135,000+
Average cost of a DNP at a private school:
• Annual tuition and fees: $30,000 – $80,000+
• Total cost for a DNP (three years): $90,000 – $240,000+
Average DNP salary: $117,000
Other Fees While Studying to Be a Nurse
Tuition is only one part of the total cost of nursing school. Students also need to budget for a variety of additional expenses that can add up quickly over the course of a program.
Uniforms, Lab Fees, and Equipment
Nursing students are typically required to purchase textbooks, uniforms (scrubs), a stethoscope, and other supplies, which can add to the total cost of your education. Nursing schools also typically charge lab or clinical fees to fund the specialized equipment and simulation centers necessary for hands-on training.
Here’s a look at how these costs break down:
• Lab fees: $100 – $500 per course
• Books and supplies: Around $625 per term
• Uniform: A set of scrubs can cost anywhere from $30 to over $100, depending on brand, fabric, and features.
Licensing Exam and Review Course Costs
After completing a nursing program, graduates must take and pass the NCLEX-RN licensing exam, which runs a couple of hundred dollars. Many graduates also invest in NCLEX review courses to increase their chances of passing on the first attempt. In addition, graduates typically need to pay for state licensure applications, background checks, and fingerprinting.
Here’s what you can expect to pay before you can start practicing:
• NCLEX-RN registration fee: $200
• NCLEX prep: Prep books run $30 – $100; online review courses are $100 – $500; live prep classes range from $300 to $1,000
• State licensing fees: $50 – $350+ depending on the state
• Live scan fingerprinting: $50 – $80
• FBI Criminal Background Check: $20 – $50
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How to Pay for Nursing School
Paying for nursing school can feel overwhelming, but there are many options to help manage costs, including federal and private student loans, scholarships, grants, and graduate student loans.
Federal Student Loans
Federal student loans are a common funding option for nursing students. Undergraduate students may qualify for:
• Direct Subsidized Loans: Offered to students with financial need, the government pays interest while you’re in school and for six months after graduation.
• Direct Unsubsidized Loans: These are not based on financial need and are available to most undergraduate students.
Graduate nursing students are eligible for only Direct Unsubsidized Loans.
You can apply for federal aid — including federal student loans, scholarships, grants, and work-study — by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) every year.
When it comes to paying federal loans back, many nurses choose to work for qualifying nonprofit or government organizations to take advantage of the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, typically pairing it with an income-based repayment plan.
💡 Quick Tip: Even if you don’t think you qualify for financial aid, you should fill out the FAFSA form. Many schools require it for merit-based scholarships, too.
Scholarships and Grants
Scholarships and grants for nurses provide valuable financial assistance to help cover the cost of education without the need for repayment. Many programs are available for nursing students at all levels, including undergraduate and advanced degrees.
Scholarships are often merit-based, while grants are typically need-based. Organizations such as the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and local health care providers offer funding opportunities. These resources reduce financial burdens, making a nursing career more accessible and affordable.
Recommended: College Scholarship Finder
Private Student Loans
Private student loans can help cover remaining costs when federal aid and scholarships are not enough. These loans are offered by banks, credit unions, and online lenders.
Private loans allow borrowers to cover up to the total cost of attendance (minus other aid), offering higher borrowing limits than federal loans, which have annual and aggregate caps. However, rates are set by individual lenders and depend on the credit profile of the borrower (or their parent cosigner). A higher score increases the likelihood of receiving the lowest available rate. Private student loans also lack federal borrower protections, such as income-driven repayment and forgiveness programs.
Recommended: Student Loan Payment Calculator
Work-Study Programs and Employer Tuition Assistance
Some nursing students qualify for the Federal Work-Study program, which provides part-time employment to help cover education expenses. These jobs are often located on campus or within health care settings.
In addition, many hospitals and health care systems offer tuition assistance or reimbursement programs for employees pursuing nursing degrees. These benefits may require a work commitment after graduation but can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Financial Aid Options Specific to Nursing Students
Beyond traditional financial aid, nursing students may qualify for specialized programs designed to address health care workforce shortages.
Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program
The Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program is a U.S. federal program that helps registered nurses and advanced practice nurses repay a significant portion of their student loans in exchange for a work commitment. Participants are required to work for at least two years at an eligible health care facility with a critical shortage of nurses or at an eligible nursing school as nurse faculty.
State-Based Forgiveness Programs
Many states offer loan repayment or forgiveness programs for nurses who work in designated shortage areas or high-need specialties. Program requirements and benefits vary by state, but they often provide substantial financial relief.
It’s worth researching options in your state or the state where you plan to practice to determine eligibility and application timelines.
The Takeaway
The cost of nursing school varies based on the degree level you pursue and the institution you choose. While an ADN offers a lower-cost entry into nursing, advanced degrees like MSN or DNP require a greater financial investment but can lead to higher salaries and expanded career opportunities.
By understanding tuition costs, planning for additional fees, and exploring all available aid options, you can make an informed decision that balances education costs with future earning potential. With careful planning, nursing school can be a worthwhile investment in a stable and in-demand career.
If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.
FAQ
How much is nursing school for four years?
The cost of a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree varies significantly by institution. If you attend a public school as an in-state student, the total cost typically ranges from $108,000 to $176,000, including annual tuition, fees, and room and board. If you attend a private institution, the total cost is generally higher, ranging from $172,000 to $304,000.
Is nursing school worth it financially?
Yes, nursing school is generally considered a worthwhile financial investment. Registered nurses can earn a solid median salary, often with strong job security and benefits. While tuition and time costs can be significant, especially for BSN, MSN, or DNP degrees, many nurses recoup their investment within a few years of working. Opportunities for overtime, specialization and advanced practice roles can further increase earning potential over time, making nursing a financially sustainable and flexible career choice.
What is the average debt after nursing school?
The median student loan debt for graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is $23,506.
What financial aid is available specifically for nursing students?
Nursing students can access federal student loans (Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized), private student loans, and various scholarships and grants specifically for nursing. Specialized options include the federal Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program, which offers loan forgiveness for nurses who commit to working in critical shortage facilities, and various state-based forgiveness programs that incentivize practice in high-need areas.
How do nursing salaries compare to the cost of education?
Nursing salaries generally compare favorably to the cost of education, especially over the long term. While tuition for nursing programs can be significant, particularly for bachelor’s or advanced degrees, nurses often earn stable, competitive salaries with strong job security. Many graduates recoup their education costs within a few years of working. Financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement can further reduce upfront expenses, improve the overall return on investment for a nursing education.
SoFi Private Student Loans
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