Ways to Pay for Nursing School

Becoming a nurse can be a rewarding career path, but the cost of nursing school is a major obstacle for many students. Between tuition, books, clinical fees, and living expenses, costs can quickly add up.

Fortunately, nursing students have access to a wide range of funding options. From federal aid and scholarships to employer-sponsored programs and military service, there are many ways to reduce out-of-pocket costs and long-term debt. Many students use a combination of funding sources rather than relying on just one. Understanding your options can help you reduce debt and make smarter financial decisions as you pursue your nursing degree.

1. Start With the FAFSA

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) is a key first step for anyone planning to attend nursing school. Completing the FAFSA determines your eligibility for federal student aid, including grants, federal student loans, work-study programs, and some state-based aid. Many nursing schools also use the FAFSA to award their own institutional grants and scholarships.

If you are a dependent undergraduate, you’ll need to report your parent’s financial information. For federal student aid purposes, all graduate or professional students are automatically considered independent. Because of this independent status, you generally do not need to provide parental information on your graduate school FAFSA, even if you still live with them or they claim you as a dependent on their taxes.

You can list up to 20 schools on the online FAFSA form. Be sure to add any nursing colleges you’re considering, even if you haven’t applied or been accepted yet.

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2. Nursing School Scholarships

Scholarships are one of the most effective ways to pay for nursing school because they do not need to be repaid. There are thousands of scholarships available specifically for nursing students, offered by professional associations, health care organizations, nonprofit foundations, private companies, and educational institutions.

Some nursing scholarships reward academic excellence and leadership, while others assist students with financial need or focus on specific groups, such as veterans, first-generation students, and those seeking to work in underserved communities.

Scholarships can range anywhere from a few hundred to $10,000-plus. While individual awards may not cover all costs, applying for multiple scholarships can significantly reduce reliance on loans. Many students underestimate how much scholarship funding they can accumulate by consistently applying each year.

3. Grants for Nursing School

Grants are another valuable source of funding that does not require repayment. The most common federal grant is the Pell Grant, which is awarded to undergraduate students with exceptional financial need, with a lifetime eligibility limit equivalent to six years (12 semesters).

In addition to federal grants, many states offer grant programs designed to encourage students to enter high-demand fields like nursing. Some schools also provide institutional grants based on financial need or academic performance.

Unlike loans, grants are limited by available funding, making it important to submit the FAFSA as early as possible. Grants can be used to cover tuition, fees, books, and sometimes housing costs, and can help students minimize debt.

4. Federal Student Loans

When scholarships and grants aren’t enough to cover the full cost of nursing school, federal student loans are often the next option. These loans typically offer lower interest rates, more flexible repayment options, and better borrower protections than private loans. You apply for federal student loans by submitting the FAFSA.

Types of Federal Loans

There are three main types of federal student loans: Direct Subsidized Loans, Direct Unsubsidized Loans, and Direct PLUS Loans.

Direct Subsidized Loans

Direct Subsidized Loans are available to undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need. The key benefit of subsidized loans is that the federal government pays the interest while you’re in school at least half-time, during the six-month grace period after you graduate, and during approved deferments. This can save nursing students a significant amount of money over time.

Direct Unsubsidized Loans

Direct Unsubsidized Loans are available to undergraduate and graduate nursing students regardless of financial need. Interest begins accruing as soon as the loan is disbursed, but students can choose to defer payments while in school. These loans offer fixed interest rates and access to federal repayment programs.

Direct PLUS Loans

Direct PLUS Loans have traditionally been available to graduate and professional students, as well as to parents of dependent undergraduate students. However, as of July 2026, Grad PLUS loans will no longer be available to new borrowers. Students pursuing graduate nursing degrees — such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) — will have access only to Direct Unsubsidized Loans.

Direct PLUS loans remain available to parents of undergraduate students. The maximum amount they can borrow is the cost of attendance at the nursing school you attend minus any financial aid you receive. However, PLUS loans have relatively high interest rates and fees compared to other federal loans.

💡 Quick Tip: Parents and sponsors with strong credit and income may find more-competitive rates on no-fees-required private parent student loans than federal parent PLUS loans. Federal PLUS loans also come with an origination fee.

Student Loan Forgiveness for Nurses

One major advantage of federal student loans is access to loan forgiveness programs. Nurses working in nonprofit hospitals, government facilities, or public health organizations may qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). Under PSLF, remaining loan balances can be forgiven after 120 qualifying monthly payments (typically 10 years) while working for an eligible employer.

Some state and federal programs offer loan repayment assistance or forgiveness for nurses who work in high-need or underserved areas, making federal loans more attractive for those committed to public service. For example, the federal Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program repays a significant portion of education loans for nurses in exchange for two years of service at a critical shortage facility or eligible nursing school (more on this program below).

Student Loan Payment Deferrals

Federal loans allow for payment deferrals while you’re enrolled in school at least half-time. After graduation, borrowers typically receive a six-month grace period before payments are due. In certain circumstances, such as economic hardship or further education, additional deferment may be available.

Income-Driven Repayment Plan for Nurses

Income-driven repayment (IDR) plans base your monthly loan payments on your income and household size rather than the total loan balance. After 20 to 30 years of qualifying payments, any remaining balance may be forgiven, depending on the plan.

Beginning in July 2026, new federal student loan borrowers will only have access to the Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP). RAP is designed to cap payments at an affordable percentage of income and provides forgiveness after 30 years of repayment. For nurses entering the workforce with high debt levels and modest salaries, IDR plans can make payments more manageable.

5. Private Student Loans

Private student loans can help fill funding gaps when federal aid does not fully cover nursing school costs. These loans are offered by banks, credit unions, and online lenders, and terms vary widely based on credit and income. You can find private undergraduate loans, as well as graduate student loans.

Private Student Loans vs Federal Student Loans

While federal student loans offer fixed interest rates and robust protections — such as income-driven repayment, deferment, and forgiveness — their annual and lifetime limits may not cover the full cost of nursing school.

In contrast, private loans can bridge these funding gaps by allowing students to borrow up to the total cost of attendance. However, private loan approval and rates depend heavily on creditworthiness and often require a cosigner to secure competitive terms. They also lack the flexible safety nets found in federal programs.

Choosing the Right Lender for Nursing School

If you decide to use private loans, it’s important to compare lenders carefully. Look at interest rates, repayment terms, borrower benefits, and customer reviews. Some lenders offer specialized rates, discounts, or specific loan products for students in health care professions. Taking time to shop around can help reduce the long-term cost of borrowing.

Recommended: Student Loan Payment Calculator

6. Tuition Reimbursement Programs

A tuition reimbursement program is an employer-provided benefit that allows students to receive partial or full reimbursement for education costs after completing coursework. These programs are often offered by health care employers and can significantly reduce nursing school expenses.

Reimbursement amounts and eligibility rules vary, but many programs require you to work for the employer while in school or commit to continued employment after graduation. While reimbursement may not cover upfront costs, it can ease the financial burden over time

7. Hospitals/Employers That Pay for Nursing School

Many hospitals and health care systems actively invest in educating future nurses to address staffing shortages and improve patient care. These employer-sponsored programs can cover a large portion — or even all — of nursing school tuition up front or help employees repay their nursing school loans.

Health System Partnerships With Nursing Programs

Some hospitals partner directly with nursing schools to create pipeline programs. Students may receive discounted tuition, guaranteed clinical placements, or job offers upon graduation. These partnerships can benefit both students and employers by ensuring a steady supply of trained nurses.

Work Commitments in Exchange for Tuition Coverage

Tuition assistance programs typically come with a work commitment. Graduates may be required to work for the employer or sponsoring hospital for a set number of years. While this limits short-term job flexibility, it provides financial stability and guaranteed employment after graduation.

8. Getting a Nursing Degree Abroad

Another option some students consider is earning a nursing degree abroad. In certain countries, tuition and living costs may be significantly lower than in the U.S. Many international nursing programs are also shorter (such as three years instead of four for a Bachelor of Nursing degree), allowing you to enter the workforce faster.

Cost Comparisons and Accreditation Considerations

If you’re thinking about getting a nursing degree abroad, you’ll want to make sure the program meets U.S. licensing requirements and prepares you to pass the NCLEX-RN exam. It’s also important to factor in additional costs — such as credential evaluations and moving expenses (e.g., visas and flights) — to accurately compare the cost to a U.S. program.

9. Military Service

The U.S. military heavily subsidizes or fully pays for nursing school in exchange for service commitments. Options include:

•   The Army Health Care Education Reimbursement Program

•   Navy Nurse Candidate Program (NCP)

•   Air Force Health Professional Scholarship Program

These programs are designed to recruit and train nurses and other health care professionals, and many offer 100% of tuition and fees, sign-on bonuses, and monthly stipends.

ROTC and Nursing Student Incentives

Army ROTC Nursing scholarships provide comprehensive financial support, including full tuition and fees (or room and board), $1,200 annually for books, and a $420 monthly tax-free stipend. Nursing-specific benefits include paid NCLEX-RN review fees, test fees, uniforms, and clinical supplies.

If you’re interested in ROTC, it’s recommended that you join the program as a freshman or sophomore in nursing school. Upon graduation, you are required to serve as an army nurse and officer for four years.

10. Nurse Corps Program

The Nurse Corps program is a federal initiative aimed at addressing nursing shortages in underserved communities. It includes two programs that can help you pay for nursing school:

•   The Nurse Corps Scholarship Program covers tuition, fees, and other educational costs for eligible nursing students. In return, after graduation, you work at an eligible health care facility with a critical shortage of nurses for two years. To apply, you must be an accepted or enrolled student in a nursing degree program at a U.S. accredited school of nursing.

•   The Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program will pay up to 85% of unpaid nursing education debt in exchange for at least two years of service at an eligible health care facility with a critical shortage of nurses or an eligible school of nursing. You can apply to the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program if you are a registered nurse (RN), advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), or nurse faculty.

Deciding Which Route to Pursue

With so many options available, choosing how to pay for nursing school can feel overwhelming. The right approach will depend on your financial situation, career goals, and willingness to make service or work commitments

Comparing Costs, Commitments, and Career Goals

Some funding options reduce costs upfront but require long-term commitments, while others offer flexibility but lead to higher debt. Weighing total costs, repayment obligations, and career preferences can help you choose the best path.

Combining Multiple Funding Sources

Many nursing students use a mix of scholarships, grants, federal loans, and employer assistance. Strategically combining multiple funding sources can minimize debt while still covering the full cost of education.

Private Student Loans From SoFi

Nursing school is a significant investment, but there are a number of financial aid and career-based programs that can significantly reduce the cost. By starting with the FAFSA, seeking out scholarships and grants, understanding federal and private loan options, and exploring employer, military, or service-based programs, you can build a smart, flexible funding strategy that fits your goals. With careful planning, it’s possible to earn your nursing degree while keeping long-term financial stress to a minimum.

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.

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FAQ

Can FAFSA be used for nursing school financial aid?

Yes, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) is essential for nursing school financial aid. By completing the FAFSA, you determine your eligibility for various federal student aid options, including grants (like the Pell Grant), federal student loans (subsidized and unsubsidized), and work-study programs.

Beyond federal aid, many nursing schools require a FAFSA on file to award their own institutional scholarships and need-based grants. To maximize your financial assistance, aim to file as early as possible.

Can an employer pay for you to attend nursing school?

Yes, many hospitals and health care employers offer tuition reimbursement programs and other forms of financial assistance for nursing students. These programs are often designed to address staffing shortages by helping current or future employees pay for school, often in exchange for a work commitment after graduation. This can significantly reduce the out-of-pocket cost of a nursing degree.

Can you use private student loans for nursing school?

Yes, you can use private student loans to pay for nursing school. Private loans, offered by banks, credit unions, and online lenders, are often used when federal aid, scholarships, and grants do not fully cover the cost of attendance.

Just keep in mind that interest rates are based on your (or your cosigner’s) credit score and may be higher than federal loans. Private loans also lack federal protections like income-driven repayment and forgiveness programs. As a result, it’s wise to max out federal options before going private.

What Is the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program?

The Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program pays up to 85% of qualifying nursing education debt in exchange for a commitment to work for at least two years at an eligible health care facility experiencing a critical shortage of nurses, or at an eligible nursing school. The program is open to registered nurses (RNs), advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), and nurse faculty.

Are there loan forgiveness programs specifically for nurses?

Yes, there are loan forgiveness programs for nurses, including:

•   Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): Available to nurses working full-time for eligible nonprofit or government organizations, PSLF forgives your remaining federal student loan balance after 120 qualifying payments.

•   Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program: This program repays up to 85% of qualifying nursing education debt in exchange for a commitment to work for at least two years at an eligible critical shortage facility or nursing school.

•   State programs: Many states offer loan repayment assistance or forgiveness to nurses who agree to work in high-need or underserved areas within the state.

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