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Nurses are in demand. From 2022-2032, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts an average of 177,400 openings for registered nurses. Many of those openings come about due to nurses who switch occupations or exit the labor force, including those who retire.

Because nurses are in demand, you may want to attend nursing school. Let’s walk through 10 ways to help you figure out how to pay for nursing school.

1. Start With the FAFSA

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) is a federal form that students can fill out every year that gives you access to federal and institutional aid to pay for college. Your college or educational institution will use the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for federal grants, work-study, and federal loans to attend college or career school. There is no cost associated with the FAFSA.

You can file the FAFSA starting on October 1 for the subsequent academic year that you plan to attend college. For example, if you plan to attend nursing school in the fall of 2024, you can file the FAFSA starting on October 1 in the fall of 2023.

You’ll need a FSA ID, a username, and a password that confirms your identity when you’re looking at or signing official financial aid documents. You’ll need two separate FSA IDs — one for you and one for your parents, if you’re a dependent student.

You can list up to 10 colleges and universities on the FAFSA using the Federal School Code search to identify each of the schools where you’d like it sent.

The FAFSA’s data retrieval tool (IRS DRT) takes most of the work out of filing the FAFSA. It pulls information directly from the IRS. After you follow the FAFSA directions, you sign with your FSA ID.

2. Nursing School Scholarships

Some colleges may offer scholarships specific to nursing students. You can also look beyond your nursing major. Do you have talents in art, music, or leadership that could qualify you for a merit-based scholarship? (Merit-based scholarships are those that are not based on financial need.) Ask the financial aid office at the school you plan to attend for more information about merit-based scholarships.

You can also take to the web to look for more scholarships. Here are a few examples:

•  The Healthline Stronger Scholarship awards four $5,000 scholarships to students who, based on their education, extracurricular activities, and career goals, are focused on both health and climate change.

•  The National Black Nurses Association, Inc (NBNA) offers several scholarships each year ranging from $1,000 to $15,000. To apply, you must be a member of the NBNA, currently enrolled in a nursing program and in good scholastic standing at the time of application with at least one full year of school remaining.

•  The FNSNA Undergraduate Scholarship awards scholarship funds based on a set of criteria established by the sponsor of the scholarship, which often outline a specific area of specialization within the nursing profession. Successful candidates can earn up to $10,000 per academic year.

In addition to looking into what your college or university can offer and searching online, take a look at local connections for specific educational or vocational programs in a particular field, such as nursing scholarships through local hospitals and privately owned doctor’s offices.

You can also look into community groups like 4-H, Kiwanis Club, and other organizations for available scholarships. Many foundations, such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, also offer scholarships.

Recommended: Scholarship Search Tool

3. Grants for Nursing School

Grants are primarily need-based awards, though some grants are awarded based on merit. Like scholarships, grants do not need to be repaid once you complete your program. Filling the FAFSA will give you access to grants through programs like the Federal Pell Grant. The FAFSA automatically considers your eligibility for federal grants based on need.

You may also become eligible for state grants based on the grants available to you in your state.

Recommended: Grants For College – Find Free Money for Students

4. Federal Student Loans

Unlike scholarships and grants, you must pay back college loans. As a nursing student, you may tap into several types of federal student loans or private loans — both graduate or undergraduate loans.

Federal student loans are given to nursing students through the Department of Education, which, as mentioned, means that you must file the FAFSA in order to receive them.

Federal student loans offer flexibility in that you do not need to undergo a credit check, with the exception of the Direct PLUS Loan, which does require a credit check. Federal student loans also offer low-interest rates, various repayment plans, and forgiveness options. You could also use federal student loans to cover living expenses. For example, if you need to pay rent for an apartment while you’re attending nursing school, a federal student loan can help cover those expenses.

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 low, fixed-rate federal loans for eligible undergraduate students to help cover the costs of college or career school. The government pays the interest while you are in school or during qualifying periods of deferment. Subsidized loans are awarded based on financial need.

Direct Unsubsidized Loans

Direct Unsubsidized Loans have a low, fixed interest rate and flexible repayment terms. Undergraduate, graduate, and professional students can qualify for these loans. In contrast to the Direct Subsidized Loan, the government does not pay the interest while you’re in school. Students do not need to demonstrate financial need in order to qualify for an unsubsidized loan.

Direct PLUS Loans

Direct PLUS Loans are another option available to graduate or professional students and parents of undergraduate students. Unlike other federal loans, PLUS loans do require a credit check. Borrowers are able to borrow up to the full cost of attendance.

Student Loan Forgiveness for Nurses

Student loan forgiveness for nurses means you don’t have to pay for your federal student loans in full. The federal government runs a few loan forgiveness programs that generally offer loan forgiveness after borrowers have fulfilled certain requirements. For example, the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program pays up to 85% of unpaid nursing education debt for registered nurses (RNs), nurse practitioners, and nurse faculty members. You must qualify by working in a critical shortage facility or an eligible nursing school as a nurse faculty member.

Student Loan Payment Deferrals

Federal student loans do not have to be repaid until October 1, 2022, at the earliest. In March 2020, Congress passed a bill that automatically suspended student loan payments and waived interest. The benefit was originally set to expire but has been reinstituted several times.

Current nursing students who will graduate soon will not have to make student loan payments. Depending on what the federal government does next, they may also experience another extension.

5. Private Student Loans

Private student loans come from a local bank, credit union, or another type of private student loan lender, not the federal government. Like a federal student loan, you can use private student loans to cover living expenses, tuition, and other related school costs.

Lenders evaluate an applicant’s credit history, among other factors. Students who do not have a strong credit history or score may need to add a cosigner in order to qualify or potentially qualify for a lower interest rate. If you can’t pay back the loan, your co-signer is on the hook for paying back the loan.

Private Student Loans vs Federal Student Loans

As you likely know, there are some differences between private and federal student loans, which leads many financial experts to suggest taking out federal student loans over private student loans. Here are some features of private student loans that make them less advantageous over federal student loans:

•  May need a cosigner: Private student loans often require you to have a cosigner. However, if you make a certain number of on-time payments, you can apply to have your cosigner removed from the loan.

•  No federal protections: You can’t tap into income-driven repayment programs, loan forgiveness, and deferment protections with private student loans like you can with federal student loans.

Due to these differences, private student loans are typically considered an option only after all other funding sources have been depleted.

6. Tuition Reimbursement Programs

Through a tuition reimbursement program, a company covers some or all of the costs of an employee’s education as long as you follow the company’s tuition reimbursement requirements. This is a major benefit because you can work at another company, possibly through a part-time job.

7. Hospitals/Employers That Pay for Nursing School

Another option may be to work at a hospital or other health care employer through a tuition reimbursement program. For example, you could get a job in the billing office of the hospital and go to nursing school during your off hours, or you may be able to work with your employer to put together the best schedule for both of your needs.

Hospitals and health care employers want to retain good workers, particularly in nursing, which has such a shortage of employees.

Learn more about the health care employer’s requirements for tuition reimbursement, including the amount they will reimburse. Note that it may not equal 100% — it might be 75% or 50% instead.

8. Getting a Nursing Degree Abroad

Completing a nursing degree abroad can take about two to three years. However, you can find short-term study abroad programs (a fall semester, summer, or a few weeks between terms) in many different countries.

You can often find free programs, scholarships, or grants that will help cover the cost of your study abroad program — some countries offer various options for students. Consider looking into countries that have reputable health care programs, such as Denmark, Germany, Norway, Switzerland, or Sweden.

9. Military Service

You may have a large range of education benefits if you complete military service. For example, you can access the Post-9/11 GI Bill if you served at least 90 days on active duty (either all at once or with breaks in service) on or after September 11, 2001, or received a Purple Heart on or after September 11, 2001 and were honorably discharged (after any amount of time), or served for at least 30 continuous days (all at once, without a break in service) on or after September 11, 2001, and were honorably discharged with a service-connected disability, or are a dependent child using benefits transferred by a qualifying veteran or service member.

Follow the rules regarding military service requirements, depending on your branch of the military. The college and university you plan to attend will have more information about your education benefits and so will your military branch.

10. Nurse Corps Program

The Nurse Corps Program is a scholarship available to eligible nursing students. In exchange for the scholarships, recipients work in critical shortage areas after graduating with their nursing credentials.

Deciding Which Route to Pursue

When you need help paying for nursing school, which option makes sense for you? Your preferences might offer you the most insight into the best option to pay for school. For example, it might make sense to avoid the military programs offered because you have no interest in joining the military. You may also not have the resources to study overseas or have a family who depends on you for financial support. Your goal may also be to learn how to pay for nursing school without loans.

Whatever your goals, one thing you can do is to meet with the financial aid office of the school you plan to attend. A financial aid professional can lay out all your options and help you choose the right option for you.

Private Student Loans From SoFi

When you’re readying yourself for nursing school, it’s good to have options. Options for paying for nursing school include scholarships, grants, federal student loans, and private student loans.

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

Can FAFSA be used for nursing school financial aid?

Yes, you can use the FAFSA in order to qualify for financial aid for nursing school. The amount of financial aid you receive depends on your level of need, year in school, dependency status, and other factors. For example, you can access Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans between $5,500 to $12,500 per year in undergraduate. In graduate or professional school, you can borrow up to $20,500 each year in Direct Unsubsidized Loans.

Can an employer pay for you to attend nursing school?

Yes, an employer may pay for you to attend nursing school. Your current employer may help you pay for nursing school. Talk to the human resources office to learn more about tuition assistance, the amount you can receive for attendance, and the details about your employer’s tuition reimbursement regulations.

If you aren’t currently aware of jobs that pay for nursing school, you may want to contact the college or university you plan to attend and learn more about your employment options, including work-study opportunities.

Can you use private student loans for nursing school?

You can access private student loans to pay for nursing school. SoFi can offer private loans that cover nursing school and even living expenses. Learn more about your private student loan options with SoFi.

Photo credit: iStock/FatCamera

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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An acceptance letter is a college’s formal invitation for you to enroll in their programs as a student. Depending on the type of admission you applied for, letters will be delivered from December through April. Once received, you have the option to accept or decline the offer.

Financial aid offer letters may look similar to an acceptance letter, but differ in key points. Financial aid offer letters, also known as award letters, will outline financial aid (if any) and a summary of the cost of attendance. Generally, an acceptance letter and an offer letter are sent together. In some cases, though, offer letters may be sent after acceptances.

Read on to learn more about what an acceptance letter is, what an offer letter is, when to expect an acceptance letter, and how to respond to an acceptance letter.

Basic Definition of an Acceptance Letter

Acceptance letters will generally contain the three following components:

1.    A university’s offer to enroll and reasons the applicant stood out.

2.    Details about on-campus events for prospective students.

3.    Important deadlines and information on ancillary documents, such as a financial offer letter.

Students who apply for regular decisions generally receive their decision letters in March and April, but early decision and early action decision letters may be sent as soon as December.

Offer Letter vs Acceptance Letter for College

As mentioned, an acceptance letter details whether or not a student has been admitted into a specific college. Financial aid offer letters, also known as financial aid award letters, break down the tuition cost, scholarships and grants awarded, work-study programs offered, and federal student loan options available.

In order to apply for federal financial aid, students are required to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA®, annually. The information provided on the FAFSA helps determine the types of aid, and aid amounts, that students qualify for.

Scholarships and grants are funds awarded to students that do not need to be repaid. Loans are either provided by the government or a private entity and are repaid by the borrower, though only federal student loans would be included as a part of a student’s federal aid package. Work-study is a federal program that offers employment to students who qualify and have filed a FAFSA.

Furthermore, colleges use the information provided on the FAFSA to determine awards based on needs and merit.

In cases when federal aid isn’t enough to pay for college, students may consider private student loans to help fill in funding gaps. Keep in mind, though, that private student loans aren’t necessarily afforded the same borrower protections as federal loans — things like income-driven repayment plans or deferment options. That is why private student loans are generally only considered after all other options have been depleted.

College Acceptance Letter Dates

College application deadlines vary by college and so will college acceptance letter dates. Furthermore, acceptance letters are sent out on dates depending on the type of application you submitted: regular, early action, restrictive early action, or early decision.

Applying for college early is one way prospective students can complete the application and acceptance process on an early timeline. It can be a path for those who have researched colleges thoroughly and want to get into a specific college.

Early action gives you a chance to apply to several colleges at once. Restrictive early action typically allows you to apply early to a single college, with the exception of public universities. Applicants who choose these routes are not obligated to accept their offer if admitted.

Early decision applicants apply to one school early decision and, if accepted, are required to commit. If an early decision applicant is accepted, they must withdraw their application from all other schools.

Additionally, some schools offer a more flexible rolling admission process. Instead of waiting to evaluate applications after specific deadlines, schools review applications as they are submitted (on a rolling basis). Generally, they’ll continue accepting applications until all of the open slots in their program are filled.

This table provides an overview of the types of applications, their general deadlines, and information on when students may accept a decision. Keep in mind that these dates are broad guidelines, and students should confirm all deadlines with the schools of interest.

When Do College Acceptance Letters Arrive?

Depending on the type of application, your college acceptance letter will arrive between December and April. Financial aid offer letters will be sent with or may follow acceptance letters.

What Does a College Acceptance Letter Say?

A college letter of acceptance will share the admission decision and may offer a list of upcoming events, such as when orientation will take place. It will also contain a deadline for you to submit a final decision.

The Decision

The first paragraph gets straight to the point: you’re in! It may also detail why you stood out from other applicants.

Prospective Student Events

Your letter may contain information on upcoming event dates and inform you on incoming ancillary documents, such as your financial offer letter.

Acceptance Deadline

The last portion of your letter will have important deadlines, including the date to accept the college’s offer. May 1st has become widely known as the deadline for students to make decisions about the college they’ll enroll in. Keep in mind that while this is a popular date for decision deadlines, colleges may have their own deadlines and applicants who applied early may have an earlier deadline.

Recommended: 7 Tips to Prepare for College Decision Day

How to Respond to College Acceptance Letter

Colleges inform students electronically, both online and by mail, or by mail only.

Some colleges will send forms to formally decline or accept their offer. Others may have you submit your decision via an online portal.

Be sure to educate yourself and stay connected to your top choice colleges’ admissions offices on how to respond to their college acceptance letter and to prevent missing important communications.

1. Weigh Your Options

College tuition is rapidly increasing — and can play a major role in your decision.

Compare financial offer letters to determine the best deal. If a college offers more aid, but has a substantial cost, then another college with less aid and a smaller price tag might impact your decision.

There are no standard offer letter forms, so cross-checking their website with your offer letter and getting advice can be helpful. You can also follow up with college admissions offices with your questions.

2. Choose Which College You Want to Attend

Of course, other factors will weigh into your decision-making. According to publisher Princeton Review , students are split nearly down the middle on how they choose colleges: 40% say they choose a college based on “best for their career interests,” and 40% say they choose a college that is the “best overall fit.”

You can break down your decision even further with the following questions:

•   How strong is the academic rigor of the program I’m pursuing? Is the program a fit for me?

•   How important is the location to me?

•   What stands out to me about the campus culture?

•   Is this institution the right fit for my financial situation?

•   Does it have strong career preparation programs and resource offices?

Choosing a college will take time. But with research and guidance, you can have more confidence in making your final decision.

3. Find Funding for the School You Choose

Financial aid from schools, private entities, and the government may help put an expensive college within reach. If your top choice is not fully covered by out-of-pocket finances and other sources of financial aid, applying for a private student loan is an option.

Also, getting a job during the summer or working while in school can help with tuition and daily needs.

Recommended: How to Pay for College

4. Decline Other College Acceptance Letters

Once you’ve accepted a school offer, be sure to notify other colleges that accepted you right away. This enables them to offer your spot to waitlisted prospective students.

The Takeaway

Your college admission acceptance letter and financial aid offer letter are key to deciding your next steps. From as early as December until April, you may receive college decision letters. Unless you applied early decision, waiting to receive all college acceptance letters can help you evaluate your options.

Funding your education will be one of the most important decisions you make. Compare your financial aid offer letters to determine which school offers the best value. Most colleges will give you until May 1 to accept or decline their offer and financial aid package (if any).

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.

Photo credit: iStock/Adene Sanchez

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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When considering higher education, you have options. Some might include applying to a four-year college or considering community college. Everyone’s path is different, just know that you can chart your own course.

If you’re wondering, “Should I go to community college?”, let’s take a look at some important factors to think about first.

What is Community College?

Community colleges typically offer two-year degrees known as an associate’s degree. Students often attend community colleges for two years before transferring to a four-year university to gain their bachelor’s degree.

Working with a counselor can help you solidify your academic goals and work towards them, from choosing a major to earning the right credits that can be transferred to your bachelor’s degree.

This can be an exciting time in your life, but also an overwhelming one. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of attending community college, in addition to other factors you should consider when choosing a college.

Pros and Cons of Community College

Attending community college can have some upsides, but like anything, it may not be the right option for everyone. Just remember — your own experience is going to be unique and what might be best for you might not be the same case for your classmates or friends. No need to feel pressured by what might be the “right” or “wrong” path.

Read on for more pros and cons of community college.

Pros of Going to Community College

Some benefits of attending a community college include affordability, increased flexibility in classes, and the opportunity to stay local.

Affordability

Because community college can be less expensive than their four-year counterparts, attending a community college before a university could help you cut tuition costs significantly. According to Education Data Initiative, the average cost of tuition at a two-year college in 2023 was $3,501, as compared to $9,678 at a four-year public institution with in-state tuition.

Students attending community college may also be able to live at home, which can cut down on living expenses, too. Living at home while taking community college classes can also offer you some transitional time to get accustomed to a new schedule and new academic expectations before committing to a four-year university.

Easier Admissions Requirements

It’s also relatively easy to gain admission into community college. Some community colleges even have open admission policies, which generally means that there are limited academic requirements needed for admission, so most students who apply are accepted.

Note that even if a community college has an open admission policy, certain more competitive programs, like a nursing program, might have more stringent academic requirements.

Flexibility with Classes

Another major benefit of community college is that students have flexibility with classes and the opportunity to explore a variety of academic interests before committing to a major at a four-year university. Class times also may be more suitable for students that work full-time or have other commitments outside of school.

In addition, community colleges can offer you the chance to experience smaller class sizes (instead of large lecture hall classes that can be common at universities).

Recommended: Financial Benefits of Community College

Cons of Going to Community College

While there are many pros to attending a community college before transferring to a four-year university, there are some cons to consider, as well.

Possible Limited Academic Offerings

While community college can offer the opportunity to explore courses, the academic offerings may be more limited at a community college than at a four-year institution. Consider finding out which classes are available at each community college you are interested in so you can make sure they have exactly what you need. Not all community colleges might include the classes you are interested in taking.

Generally, community colleges are limited to associate degrees, so if you are interested in obtaining a bachelor’s, you’ll need to eventually transfer to another institution. It can be helpful to talk to a counselor at the community college about what classes you might choose so that you don’t end up earning too many credits that can’t be transferred.

Missing Out on Social Benefits

Another potential downside to attending community college is that students may miss out on some of the social benefits of attending a four-year college, including friendships, extracurriculars, and enjoying campus life. While you can experience all of these things if you transfer, it can be challenging to make friends as a transfer student.

Choosing Which College to Go To

If you know for sure that you want to attend community college, now it’s time to see what options are available near you. According to The Princeton Review, 90% of the U.S. population is within commuting distance of a community college.

Due to one life situation or another, many students attend colleges as commuter students, trading a fully on-campus experience for greater flexibility. As a commuter student, you can choose to live somewhere more affordable and create a schedule that works with your work hours.

Commuter student life can also include a mix of on-campus classes and online work. Some community colleges offer a variety of online classes. Taking advantage of these resources can help if you find yourself with a complicated schedule, or if you just want more flexibility.

Other Factors to Consider When Choosing a College

Your academic goals will guide which college you choose. As you evaluate colleges, take a look at which colleges offer the major you want to pursue. If you are in the process of choosing your major, see if you can find out more about the programs that the community college near you offers. You could talk to current students or professors and evaluate whether it seems like a good school for your interests.

If you are applying for a mix of community colleges and public universities, creating a list of all your potential applications can be helpful.

You can organize this list by “match,” “reach,” and “safety” schools in order to help you consider all your options.

Thinking About the Cost of Community College

While the cost of community college is less than a four-year university, it’s still an expense that should not be taken lightly. You might consider a combination of scholarships, grants, and loans to help offset the total costs of college.

To start, students can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) each year. This application is used to determine aid including work-study, federal student loans, scholarships, and grants.

Once you start tackling the process of paying for community college, keep in mind that the financial aid offices can be a great resource if you have any questions about finding aid for college. You can find more information on whether or not the college offers its own scholarships and how to apply.

There may also be state-specific financial aid available, and it’s recommended to use a scholarship search tool to find scholarships you may qualify for.

If these resources aren’t enough, it is possible to borrow private student loans for community college. While private loans can be helpful, they’re generally considered after other options have been exhausted. That’s because they don’t have to offer the same benefits to borrowers as federal student loans do — things like income-driven repayment plans and student loan forgiveness.

Financing Your Education

Whether you decide to attend a community college first or head straight to a four-year institution, you’ll need to find a way to pay for your education. A few options may include federal student loans, scholarships, and grants.

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

Is going to community college worth it?

Going to community college can be a worthwhile experience, offering students an opportunity to take college-level coursework at an affordable price. Other benefits include increased flexibility in scheduling and the possibility to live at home while taking classes. Students also have the opportunity to transfer to a four-year college.

Does community college look bad on a resume?

Including your time at community college does not look bad on a resume. If you earned a professional certificate or other degree at the community college, feel free to include it.

Is it hard to get a job after community college?

The ease of finding employment after community college may be influenced by the field you studied. For example, students graduating with a certificate in a high-demand field such as nursing or dental hygiene may find it is relatively easy to secure employment.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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College tuition inflation since 1980 has been rising. In fact, widely cited statistics have consistently shown college tuition rising faster than inflation.

It’s no secret: College tuition is on the rise, and it has been for years. According to the most recent data from the National Center for Education Statistics, during the 2021-2022 academic year, tuition and fees costs at undergraduate institutions were:

•   $9,700 at public institutions

•   $17,800 at private for-profit institutions

•   $38,800 at private nonprofit institutions

Between 2008-2009 and 2018-2019, costs rose 28% at public institutions and 19% at private nonprofit institutions. However, the costs for private for-profit institutions have reduced 6% in 2018-2019 compared to 2008-2009.

In comparison, public institutions cost $9,100 in 2010-2011, private for-profit was $19,400, and nonprofit institutions cost $34,000 in the same year, according to NCES , a subagency of the U.S. Department of Education.

Why has college tuition outpaced inflation, anyway? We’ll walk you through a complete guide to understanding college tuition vs inflation and the reasons college tuition has outpaced inflation over time.

What Is the College Tuition Inflation Rate?

First of all, inflation refers to a decrease in how much individuals can purchase with their money, based on increases in the prices of goods and services. According to Macrotrends, the general U.S. inflation rate for 2022 was 8%. Inflation peaked at 13.55% in 1980, at its highest levels since 1960.

Each college has its own tuition rate increase per year, so to get an accurate measure of an individual college’s tuition inflation rate, you can use the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) inflation rate calculator to calculate the current inflation of college tuition rate for each institution based on previous tuition costs.

Ultimately, the average cost of tuition has increased nearly 180% over the past 20 years, even after accounting for inflation.

How Does Inflation Affect College Tuition?

When the cost of goods goes up, colleges and universities offset the increased cost of operating by increasing tuition costs.

The Higher Education Price Index (HEPI), which measures the price changes of items that allow universities to stay afloat, doesn’t align exactly with the Consumer Price Index, which refers to what consumers pay for goods.

It can be difficult to make an apples-to-apples comparison between rising tuition at colleges and universities and changes in inflation because the HEPI is affected by more than just the cost of goods. For example, administrators, professors, financial aid professionals, admission counselors, and others also require salary increases on top of the miscellaneous expenses associated with keeping college and university facilities running.

Why Is the Cost of College Rising?

There are other reasons that cause tuition, room, board, and fees to increase from year to year. In the next section, let’s explore the reasons that it becomes more expensive to run a school. We’ll discuss state funding availability, demand, and financial aid.

Less State Funding

Declining state funding has influenced tuition costs at state universities as health care and pensions increase for state employees.

As a direct result of the last two economic recessions, education appropriations remain 6% and 14.6% below 2008 and 2001 levels, respectively, according to the 2022 State Higher Education Finance (SHEF) report produced by the State Higher Education Executive Officers Association (SHEEO).

However, state funding for financial aid has increased steadily for two decades. State and local funding reached $100 billion for higher education for the first time in fiscal 2019.

More Demand

As demand rises, costs increase as well. More than five million more students attended U.S. colleges in 2017 than in 2000, though between fall 2010 and fall 2021, total undergraduate enrollment decreased by 15% (from 18.1 million to 15.4 million students), according to the most recent data from NCES.

Despite recent statistics, it’s still evident that the demand for higher education has continued to increase over the past few decades. The dependence on a highly skilled workforce and growing wage differences between college and high school graduates means more students choose to attend college and drive up the demand for higher education. Higher education prices must increase in response to a growing student population.

More Federal Aid

The 1987 Bennett hypothesis (named after President Ronald Reagan’s secretary of education, William Bennett), stated that colleges will raise tuition when financial aid increases, especially subsidized federal loans that offer low interest rates. In other words, the theory was that colleges can raise prices because federal financial aid will cover the excess costs and students can offset the cost increase with federal student loans.

Is the Bennett hypothesis still a worry today?

The New York Federal Reserve compiled a 2015 study that supports that finding. It found that student credit expansion of the past fifteen years has risen with college and university tuition.

Why Has College Tuition Outpaced Inflation?

It’s not easy to pinpoint one single reason for the rise in college tuition — you might be quick to blame governments that face deep deficits and cannot subsidize the full costs of higher education. However, the truth is that the costs of outpaced inflation are multifaceted.

Colleges often attempt to raise tuition to appear competitive with similar institutions, increasing costs across the board. University presidents also face enrollment demands and increases in HEPI also inflate budgets. That’s why high school students, together with their families, may want to carefully plan for the costs of attending a particular institution.

Some options for students who are looking into financing their education might include finding work during the summer, applying for financial aid, or looking into payment tuition plans.

College Tuition Inflation Since 1985

According to data from the NCES, since 1985 the average college tuition at all institutions has increased nearly $20,000 from $4,885 to $24,623 during the 2018-2019 school year. That number is even higher when considering the cost of attending a four-year institution, which in 1985 was $5,504 and during the 2018-2019 school year increased to $28,123

College Tuition vs Inflation

The increase in college tuition and fees have outpaced the rise of inflation for decades. According to Forbes, the cost of attending a four-year college or university during the 2021-2022 school year was increasing at double the rate of inflation. The cost of attending a two-year community college is increasing a third faster than the rate of inflation.

However, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, this has changed slightly. From the 2020-2021 school year and the 2021-2022 school year, tuition and fees increased by about 0.6% on average, while overall prices in the U.S. increased by 3.2%, according to Bloomberg based on data from the BLS.

The Takeaway

College tuition has increased dramatically — increasing by nearly 180% in the past 20 years. The reasons for such an rise in tuition can be attributed to a variety of factors including less state funding, an increase in demand, and even an increase in the amount of federal aid awarded.

Despite the seeming downsides to inflation and college costs, SoFi can offer some major perks to help you pay for school with our private student loans. Note because private student loans don’t offer the same benefits as federal student loans (like income-driven repayment options), private student loans are generally considered only after students have carefully reviewed all other sources of funding and financial aid.

But, if private student loans seem like an option, you can check your rates and apply in minutes and easily add a cosigner if you so choose.^* Borrowers can choose from four flexible repayment options and there are no fees.

Photo credit: iStock/TARIK KIZILKAYA

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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With the average annual cost of college now $36,435, figuring out how to pay for college as a low-income student can be daunting. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that students from low-income backgrounds often qualify for grants and scholarships (which you don’t have to pay back), as well as student loans.

Federal student loans are available to all college students, regardless of income, and don’t require a credit check. If you still have gaps in funding after tapping financial aid and federal loans, you may also be able to qualify for private student loans, even with a low income.

Read on to learn more about the financial aid options available to you if you qualify as a low-income student and how to apply for student loans.

What Are Student Loans?

Student loans are an often-used option to help pay for college. In fact, nearly 52% of students who complete their undergraduate programs take out federal loans at some point during their college years, according to the Education Data Initiative.

Student loans can be used to pay for tuition, room and board, and other fees, as well as other associated costs of college like books and rent.

Students can use either federal or private student loans to pay for college. Students who take out federal student loans borrow money from the government, through the U.S. Department of Education. Federal student loans typically offer low, fixed interest rates and other benefits, such as income-driven repayment plans and access to forgiveness programs.

Private student loans, by contrast, are available from banks, credit unions, and other private lenders. These lenders set their own interest rates and conditions for their student loans. To qualify for a private student loan, you need to fill out an application and disclose personal financial information, such as your income and credit score.

Since students typically don’t have well-established credit histories, many private student loans require a cosigner. A cosigner is someone who agrees to pay back the loan if the primary borrower is unable to do so. Because private student loans don’t offer the same borrower protections that come with federal student loans, you generally only want to consider them after you’ve depleted all of your federal student aid options.


💡 Quick Tip: You’ll make no payments on some private student loans for six months after graduation.

Can You Get Student Loans With a Low Income?

Yes, you can get student loans if you have a low income. If you can’t cover the full cost of college with scholarships and grants, student loans can help you take care of the remaining costs of college.

You can access federal student loans no matter your income level, but you do need to meet specific qualifications. You must:

•   Have a high school diploma or a recognized equivalency, such as a GED, or have completed a state-approved home-school high school education.

•   Be a U.S. citizen or an eligible noncitizen

•   Have a valid Social Security Number

•   Be enrolled or accepted for enrollment as a regular student in an eligible degree or certificate program

•   Maintain satisfactory academic progress in college

You may also be able to qualify for some private student loans if you have a low income (more on that below).

Recommended: Finding Free Money for College

Low-Income Financial Aid Options

Students and their families pay for college in a variety of ways, including savings, scholarships, grants, work-study, and student loans. Indeed, paying for college often looks like a puzzle — all the pieces fit together in different ways to make everything “fit.”

Here’s a look at how to access low-income student aid options.

FAFSA

Every student (whether they’re low-income students or not) can file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is the free form you can fill out to apply for financial aid for undergraduate or graduate school, and is one of the most important steps students and their families can take to pay for college.

In conjunction with the school you plan to attend, the FAFSA determines your eligibility for need-based and non-need-based financial aid. The FAFSA results determine the amounts you receive for federal grants, scholarships, work-study, and/or federal student loans. In addition to subsidized federal student loan (which are need-based) and unsubsidized federal student loans (which are not need-based), there are two other types of federal aid low-income students may qualify for based on the FAFSA:

•   Federal grants Students who demonstrate financial need may qualify for federal grants, which you do not need to pay back. Some examples of federal grants include Federal Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants, and Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grants. Each grant has its own eligibility requirements. Some, like the TEACH Grant, even have requirements you must fulfill after you attend school. Look at each grant’s eligibility requirements to determine whether you qualify.

•   Work-study Colleges and universities offer part-time work-study opportunities through the Federal Work-Study program. Graduate and undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need can get it whether they are part- or full-time students, as long as your school participates in the Federal Work-Study Program.

How Do You File the FAFSA?

Typically, the FAFSA becomes available on October 1 for the following academic year. The 2024-2025 academic year, however, is an exception. Due to upcoming changes to the FAFSA (and some adjustments to how student aid will be calculated), the application will be available some time in December 2023.

Since some aid is distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, it’s a good idea to complete the FAFSA as soon after its release as possible. Here’s how:

1.    Create your Federal Student Aid ID, also called an FSA ID. You can do this in advance of getting your materials ready and filing the FAFSA.

2.    Make a list of schools you’d like to attend. You can add up to 20 schools on the 2024-2025 FAFSA.

3.    Gather financial documents you’ll need. You’ll need information for both yourself and your parents, such as your Social Security numbers, Alien Registration numbers (if you’re not a U.S. citizen), most recent federal income tax return, W-2s, details of any untaxed income you’ve received, current bank statements, records of any investments you have.

4.    Complete the FAFSA. Using your FSA ID, log in to the website, read the directions, and submit your information.

5.    Review your FAFSA Submission Summary to make sure your information looks correct. The FAFSA Submission Summary, formerly known as the Student Aid Report (SAR), is a document that summarizes the information you provided when filling out the FAFSA. It includes your Student Aid Index (SAI), previously called Expected Family Contribution (EFC). Colleges and universities receive your SAI to determine your eligibility for federal and nonfederal student aid.

Federal Pell Grant

Your SAI will determine your eligibility for a Federal Pell Grant, so you have to file the FAFSA in order to qualify.

Undergraduate students who qualify for a Federal Pell Grant must show exceptional financial need. These grants are usually reserved only for undergraduate students, though some students enrolled in a post-baccalaureate teacher certification program might qualify.

How much can you receive from a Pell Grant? The amount varies, depending on your SAI, the cost of attendance of your school, whether you are a part-time or full-time student, and whether you will attend for a full academic year or not. The maximum Pell Grant award for the 2023-2024 academic year is $7,395. (The amount for 2024-2025 has not been announced yet.)

Scholarships for Low-Income Students

Colleges and universities may offer need-based scholarships. The money is yours to use for education — you do not need to pay it back. The results of the FAFSA help colleges and universities determine your eligibility for need-based scholarships and scholarships for low-income students.

You can also find need-based scholarships through employers, individuals, private companies, nonprofit organizations, religious groups, and professional and/or social organizations. There are a number of online scholarship search tools that can help you find scholarships you might qualify for.

Student Loans for Low-Income Families

As mentioned above, you can tap into either federal or private student loans for low-income students. Here’s a closer look at both.

Federal Student Loans

Based on the results of the FAFSA, you may qualify for a few types of federal student loans. Subsidized federal loans are need-based, while unsubsidized federal student loans are available to all students regardless of income or financial need.

Here’s a quick overview of three main types of federal loans:

•   Direct Unsubsidized Loans can go to undergraduate, graduate, and professional students. They are not need-based but you are responsible for paying all interest, which begins accruing as soon as the loan is dispersed.

•   Direct Subsidized Loans are for undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need. The government pays the interest on these loans while you’re in school, during any deferment, and during the six-month grace period after you graduate.

•   Direct Plus Loans are available for graduate or professional students or parents of undergraduate students and are not need-based or subsidized. Borrowers must undergo a credit check to look for adverse events, but eligibility does not depend on your credit scores.

Private Student Loans

Federal student loans don’t fully cover the cost of attendance for many students, and some students may consider tapping into private student loans as well.

Private lenders set their own requirements, however, and some students may find it challenging to qualify for a private loan if they have:

•   Little to no income

•   A negative credit history

•   A bankruptcy on file

•   A low credit score

How do you get around these issues? You may need to get a job while in school to prove you have some income. You may also want to work on building your credit before you apply for a private student loan. While you may be able to qualify with low income and low credit, you may make up for it by paying more in interest.

Another way to qualify for a private student loan with a low income and/or poor (or limited) credit is to apply with a cosigner. A student loan cosigner is a creditworthy adult who signs for a loan along with you. It’s a legally binding agreement stating that they’re willing to share the responsibility of repaying the loan on time and in full. Many borrowers turn to a family member for cosigning.

How to Apply for Student Loans

How to apply for student loans will differ depending on whether you are interested in federal or private student loans.

To apply for federal student loans, the first step is to fill out the FAFSA. Once you’ve filed the FAFSA, you basically sit back and wait to see what the school you’re planning to attend will offer you in federal aid, which may include a mix of grants, scholarships, and federal student loans. Your school will tell you how to accept all or a part of the loan.

Before you receive your loan funds, you will be required to complete entrance counseling, a tool to ensure you understand your obligation to repay the loan, and also sign a Master Promissory Note, agreeing to the terms of the loan.

Applying for private student loans involves directly going to a lender website or simply talking to your college or university’s financial aid office. Many institutions put together what they call “preferred lenders.”

Even if your school makes it easy for you to apply for a private student loan, it’s a good idea to do your research outside of the preferred lender list to find low interest rates and compare interest rate types (fixed or variable), repayment schedules, and fees. You want to find the terms and conditions that best fit your needs.

As you are researching private student loans, you’ll want to make sure that you (or your cosigner) meets the requirements to qualify for the loan.


💡 Quick Tip: Federal student loans carry an origination or processing fee (1.057% for Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans first disbursed from Oct. 1, 2020, through Oct. 1, 2024). The fee is subtracted from your loan amount, which is why the amount disbursed is less than the amount you borrowed. That said, some private student loan lenders don’t charge an origination fee.

The Takeaway

Even if you’re a low-income student, you can access student loans. To find out what federal student loans you are eligible for, you’ll need to fill out the FAFSA. As a low-income student, you may qualify for subsidized federal student loans, which won’t accrue any interest while you’re in school and for six months after you graduate. This makes them more affordable than unsubsidized federal student loans and private student loans.

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

What qualifies as a low-income student?

The U.S. Department of Education defines a low-income student as an individual whose family’s taxable income for the preceding year did not exceed 150% of the poverty income level established by the Census Bureau. For example, a student from a family of four living in the contiguous U.S. with a household income of $45,000 or less is considered low-income.

Do low-income students get free college?

Some low-income students are able to go to college for free through financial aid or merit scholarships. But even without a full ride, low income students can often pay for college through a combination of scholarships, grants, and loans.

Does FAFSA help low-income students?

Yes. Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, better known as the FAFSA, gives low-income students access to financial aid, including grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and federal student loans.

Photo credit: iStock/Souda

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SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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