Most Affordable CRNA Schools

Demand for nurses continues to rise, and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) remain among the most in-demand specialists.¹ This updated article guides you to the most affordable CRNA programs available today.

For each affordable CRNA school featured here, you’ll now find current tuition details (updated through 2025 where possible), plus an overview of coursework, clinical practicums, and accreditation. Later, you’ll discover the most lucrative career paths tied to these budget-friendly CRNA degrees.

What Are the Most Affordable CRNA Schools Today?

In general, public institutions typically have lower tuition costs compared to private universities.² You will see in this article we will detail 10 of the cheapest CRNA programs in the country, and many of them are public universities. While CRNA school may look expensive on paper, you will come out earning very decent money, (we’re talking an average of almost $215,000 nationally), but we still don’t want you to come out with decades of student debt. We have a range of program costs below, so use that as a guide and starting point to get a sense of CRNA program cost.

How Much Do the Cheapest CRNA Programs Cost?

Tuition can range widely. Depending on the institution, total CRNA tuition and fees vary from roughly $40,000 all the way up to $120,000+. That’s a broad but current range reflecting both public and private programs as of 2025.

Cheapest CRNA Schools Costs Breakdown

• Tuition & Fees: This is the largest expense. Public in‑state programs often offer significantly lower total costs than private or out-of-state options.
• Clinical Fees: Typically minimal for programs tied to teaching hospitals, but may be higher at private institutions.
• Textbooks, Uniforms & Living Expenses: Still relevant costs associated with your education. You can save by buying used textbooks, borrowing from libraries, or sharing housing.
• Financial Aid: Scholarships, grants, military tuition waivers, and in-state tuition remain key ways to reduce your CRNA program costs.

Why Attend CRNA School

Graduating from a CRNA program qualifies you to sit for the National Certification Examination, which is a requirement for nearly any CRNA position. Many hospitals require this credential and additional pharmacology coursework may be necessary depending on your practice setting.

Best CRNA School Career Options

Graduates of CRNA programs step into a world rich with opportunity that is far beyond just administering anesthesia. Here are some of the most rewarding and high-growth paths available now:

CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist)

Earning your CRNA directly remains the most straightforward route: you will be providing anesthesia in settings like operating rooms, emergency departments, ambulatory surgery centers, and more. CRNAs are essential in rural hospitals and, depending on state laws, may practice independently.

• Salary: The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median salary of $214,200 nationally.³ 

Specialized CRNA Roles

CRNAs can choose to focus on high-impact specialties, potentially commanding higher compensation and deeper clinical engagement:

• Pain Management
• Pediatric Anesthesia
• Cardiac Anesthesia
• Obstetric Anesthesia
• Plastic Surgery
• Dental or Neurosurgical Anesthesia

Leadership and Independent Practice

CRNAs can step into managerial roles, lead departments, or even operate independently in states where full practice authority is granted.

Academic and Educational Roles

With a DNP or DNAP, CRNAs may transition into teaching, contributing to training the next generation of providers and even shaping future curricula.

Non-Clinical & Policy Roles

For those less drawn to the operating room (OR), there are roles in healthcare administration, research, or policy, especially for people with advanced degrees like a DNP.

CRNA Salary

The average salary for a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) is now about $214,200 per year, according to the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data.³ Actual earnings will depend heavily on factors like geographic location, years of experience, practice setting, and whether the CRNA works in a specialized role. Entry-level CRNAs may start closer to $140,000, while experienced providers in high-demand states can earn over $240,000 annually.³ Naturally, more experience and advanced training generally boost earning potential.

Can You Attend CRNA School for Free?

Short answer: Yes, in some cases, but it usually requires a service commitment or finding substantial funding.

Here are some of the most reliable paths to attending CRNA school with no, or drastically reduced, tuition costs:

Military and Federal Service Programs

• Uniformed Services University (USU): Students in the Graduate School of Nursing, including nurse anesthesia DNP programs, may pay no tuition or fees and receive full active-duty salaries and benefits. In return, they incur a service commitment proportional to their time at the university.
• US Army Graduate Program in Anesthesia Nursing (USAGPAN): Administered with Baylor University, this program covers full tuition and requires a five-year active-duty service commitment post-graduation.
• Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP): Across Army, Navy, or Air Force, this program covers tuition, fees, a monthly stipend (~$2,500), books, equipment, and provides a signing bonus. Recipients must commit to service, which is typically one year of duty for each year of support.
• VA–Army Nurse Anesthetist Education Program: Designed for qualified VA nurses, this program provides anesthesia training without requiring enlistment; participants remain VA employees instead of active military.

Scholarships & Grants

• AANA Foundation Scholarships: The American Association of Nurse Anesthetists offers grants and scholarships for CRNA students, including research and education awards.
• Institution-Specific Awards: Most universities will have some sort of scholarship opportunities for their students. Some require essays, letters of recommendation, and a minimum GPA to keep throughout your program.

State and National Nursing Scholarships

Even though this category is not CRNA-specific, broader nursing scholarships can help offset graduate program costs:

• HRSA Programs: The Health Resources & Services Administration offers scholarship and loan repayment programs for nurses serving in high-need areas, faculty roles, or treatment facilities.
• Diversity-Focused Funding: Organizations like National Medical Fellowships support underrepresented nursing and health-professional students, including graduate-level applicants.

While rarely totally free for civilian students, CRNA school can be tuition-free, especially through military or federal-sponsored paths. Civilian students may find substantial support through scholarships like those from AANA, HRSA, or specific nursing schools. Asking directly at your program’s financial aid office can uncover hidden or specialized funding opportunities.

Cheapest CRNA Schools That Won’t Break the Bank

Here’s a snapshot (in no specific order) of some of the most affordable CRNA programs nationwide, drawing on recent rankings and verified tuition data:

What Are the Cheapest CRNA Schools? A Deep Dive

In no specific order, here is a deep dive into 10 of the cheapest CRNA schools.

1. Arkansas State University (DNP Nurse Anesthesia)

• Program: 36-month, 114-credit-hour DNP tailored for RNs entering anesthesia practice.
• Cost Estimate: Approx. $45,000 total.

2. East Carolina University (DNP Nurse Anesthesia)

• Program: 36-month DNP program
• Cost Estimate: In-state total estimated at $50,638.61 and out-of-state total estimated at $96,233.57

3. University of Puerto Rico (Nurse Anesthesia DNP)

• Program: This DNP program consists of 36 consecutive months with over 1,000 hours of didactic study, over 1,500 hours of clinical practice, over 50 hours of conferences, over 120 hours of labs, and 60 hours of independent study. You get a great mixed method learning experience with the University of Puerto Rico’s nursing program. 
• Cost Estimate: $500 per credit hour for Puerto Rico residents and $700 per credit hour for non-residents.

4. University of Southern Mississippi (DNP Nurse Anesthesia)

• Program: This program is accredited by the American Association of Colleges of Nurses. The program consists of 114 hours of coursework that is required and 12 doctoral hours of project work. 
• Cost Estimate: $9,652 per semester for both residents and non-residents.

5. University of North Dakota (DNP Nurse Anesthesia)

• Program: This program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs. It has a 100% employment rate within six months of graduation from the program and a 100% pass rate for the NCE exam.  
• Cost Estimate: Tuition costs for in-state residents are $1,083.94 per credit hour or $35,770.02 per year. For Minnesota residents, cost is $1,376.61 per credit hour and $45,428.13 per year. For non-North Dakota or Minnesota residents in the United States, tuition is $1,625.91 per credit hour or $53,655.03 per year. Lastly, for international students (the most expensive category), tuition is $2,167.89 per credit hour or $71,540.37 per academic year. 

6. Rhode Island College (BSN-to-DNP, Nurse Anesthesia)

• Program: The sole CRNA program in Rhode Island, taught in collaboration with St. Joseph Hospital School of Nurse Anesthesia. The program can be completed in three years of full-time dedicated study.
• Cost Estimate: Flat cost per-credit regardless of where you reside is $1,173.

7. California State University Fullerton / Kaiser Permanente School of Anesthesia

• Program: A partnership DNP program via the CSU consortium, delivered by Kaiser Permanente School of Anesthesia. In order to be eligible for entry into the program, you must have at least one year of full-time work experience as an RN specifically in an adult critical care unit. 
• Cost Estimate: This program costs $8,580 per semester for all students, both residents and non-residents of California. 

8. University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) – DNP Nurse Anesthesia

• Program: 100% of students in 2024 were employed within the six months following their graduation and 100% of students in both 2024 and 2025 cohorts passed the NCE exam (with 96% passing on the first try in 2025). The DNP program takes three years to complete and can be a mix of on-campus and distance learning.
• Cost Estimate: $628 per credit hour for residents of Alabama and $1,550 per credit hour for non-residents. 

9. Webster University (Missouri, DNAP)

• Program: Webster University’s DNAP program partners with over clinical 30 sites to enhance your hands-on experience in the program and give you diverse clinical experiences. The 2025 cohort saw a 92% first time pass rate for the NCE exam, with previous years students passing over 95% of the time and over 95% of students being employed following graduation.
• Cost Estimate: About $115,875 total for program completion

10. University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (Public DNP CRNA)

• Program: Students need at least two years of full-time critical care nursing experience to be eligible for this program. There are multiple clinical partner sites to allow students a breadth of experience and figure out their ideal nursing environment. 
• Cost Estimate: $882 per credit for in-state students and $1,330 per credit for out-of-state students

Paying for CRNA School With Financial Aid

Becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist is a big investment, with programs costing between $40,000 and $120,000+ for the full degree (as seen above). The good news is that there are multiple financial aid options that are available to help soften the blow. Before committing to a full degree program, it’s smart to sit down with a financial aid officer at your school to map out grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study opportunities that fit your situation.

Federal Grants

Federal grants remain one of the most attractive ways to pay for CRNA school since they don’t have to be repaid. While CRNA-specific federal grants are limited, two common routes are:

• Nurse Corps Scholarship Program (via HRSA) – Covers tuition, fees, and provides a monthly stipend in exchange for service in a Critical Shortage Facility after graduation.
• National Health Service Corps (NHSC) programs – While primarily geared toward physicians and other providers, nurse anesthetists may qualify if they commit to practicing in underserved areas.

Both require applicants to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) each year.

Federal Student Loans

Many CRNA students take out federal loans to cover remaining costs. Options include:

• Direct Unsubsidized Loans (fixed interest, available regardless of financial need).
• Direct PLUS Loans (credit-based, but often necessary for covering the full cost of attendance).

Federal loans generally offer lower interest rates and more flexible repayment plans than private loans. A six-month grace period after graduation gives students time to secure employment before repayment starts.

Private Loans

When federal aid isn’t enough, private lenders such as banks and credit unions can fill the gap. Be cautious though, because private loans often come with higher interest rates, stricter repayment terms, and fewer borrower protections. Compare these loans carefully and we recommend that you use private loans only after exhausting federal aid and scholarships.

Scholarships

Plenty of scholarships are available that are specifically for nurse anesthetist students. Examples include:

• AANA Foundation Scholarships – Awards dozens of scholarships annually, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000+.
• State nursing associations – Many states sponsor scholarships for graduate nursing students, including CRNAs.
• Institutional awards – Some CRNA programs offer full or partial tuition coverage, sometimes with stipends.

Work-Study & Employer Sponsorship

Graduate students, including those in CRNA programs, may qualify for federal work-study, where part-time jobs on or near campus help cover living expenses. Additionally, some hospitals and healthcare employers offer tuition reimbursement or sponsorship programs if you agree to work for them after graduation. This can significantly reduce or even eliminate out-of-pocket tuition.

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How to Apply for Federal Aid to Finance Your CRNA School Program

Applying for federal financial aid is the first step many CRNA students take to cover tuition and living costs. Here’s how the process works in 2025:

Step 1. Check Your Eligibility
To qualify for federal aid, you must:

• Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen.
• Be enrolled (or accepted) in an accredited CRNA program.
• Demonstrate financial need for certain aid types.
• Maintain satisfactory academic progress once enrolled.

Some federal scholarships and service programs have extra requirements, such as working in high-need areas after graduation.

Step 2. Create Your FAFSA Account
Go to the official FAFSA site. Create an FSA ID (username and password) that you’ll use every year to log in and electronically sign your FAFSA.

Step 3. Fill Out the FAFSA Form
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You’ll be asked for:

• Demographic information (name, DOB, SSN).
• Your school list (include the CRNA programs you’re applying to).
• Dependency status (whether you’ll report parent information).
• Financial details (tax returns, W-2s, income records).

Step 4. Review and Submit
Double-check your entries carefully, because errors in Social Security numbers, income, or school codes can delay aid. Once everything looks accurate, sign with your FSA ID and submit.

Step 5. Review Your Student Aid Report (SAR)
After submission, you’ll get a Student Aid Report (SAR) by email. This summarizes the info you provided and highlights any corrections needed.

Step 6. Get Your Financial Aid Offer
Within a few weeks, the schools you listed will send you a financial aid award letter. This outlines your federal aid package, including loans, grants, or work-study eligibility. If you don’t receive anything, contact your school’s financial aid office directly.

Cheapest Graduate Schools for CRNA

The most affordable CRNA graduate programs today are Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) degrees. Since 2025, the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) has required all new nurse anesthetists to train at the doctoral level, meaning master’s programs have been fully phased out.

Affordable graduate schools in this field stand out not only for low tuition costs but also for their strong faculty, high board-pass rates, and well-respected clinical partnerships. Choosing one of these schools can help you gain the advanced training required for anesthesia practice without accumulating overwhelming debt.For aspiring CRNAs, the bottom line is this: you no longer need to weigh whether to pursue a master’s or doctorate. Every path now leads to a doctoral degree, so your best bet is to focus on schools that balance tuition savings with strong clinical outcomes.

How to Choose a Good and Affordable CRNA School

The most affordable CRNA schools will set you up for a long, rewarding career without burying you in unmanageable debt. With an aging population and rising demand for anesthesia nurses, choosing the right program is about more than just tuition; it’s about finding a balance between cost, quality, and long-term career value.^3,4

Here are the key factors to consider when evaluating your options:

Flexibility

Most CRNA programs are full-time, three-year doctoral tracks, but some offer hybrid or partially online components for early coursework. If you need to keep working or juggle family responsibilities, look for programs that provide:

• Online didactic classes for the first semesters.
• Rotations close to home (if the program has multiple clinical sites).
• Options for part-time or extended study tracks (rare, but available at a few schools).

Program Reputation and Outcomes

Not all CRNA programs are equal in terms of board pass rates, employment outcomes, and clinical training. When comparing schools, ask:

• What is the first-time pass rate for the National Certification Examination (NCE)?
• What percentage of graduates secure jobs within six months?
• Does the program offer a variety of clinical experiences (e.g., rural hospitals, trauma centers, pediatrics, cardiothoracic)?

Talking with recent graduates or checking COA-accredited program stats can give you an inside look at how well each school prepares its students.

Financial Aid and Total Cost

Don’t just compare tuition, calculate the full cost of attendance, which includes:

• Tuition and mandatory fees
• Books and clinical supplies (stethoscopes, scrubs, lab fees)
• Housing and living expenses in the program’s city

Some schools also stand out for their financial support. Ask each program’s financial aid office:

• Do you offer institutional scholarships or assistantships?
• Are there work-study opportunities for graduate students?
• Do you participate in federal or state funding programs (like Nurse Corps)?

Accreditation and Career Impact

Make sure the program is COA-accredited, since this is required for certification and licensure. A well-regarded program can also open doors to leadership roles, teaching positions, and specialized anesthesia practice later in your career.Bottom line: The best CRNA school for you is one that balances affordability with strong outcomes. This means that a program is the best if it fits your financial situation, supports your lifestyle, and delivers the training you need to thrive as a nurse anesthetist.

Tips for Saving Money While Attending CRNA School

CRNA school is a big financial commitment, but there are smart ways to keep costs under control while you work toward your degree. Here are some proven strategies:

Create a Full Budget

Don’t just budget for tuition, but also factor in fees, clinical costs, textbooks, scrubs, housing, transportation, and exam prep materials. Planning for the full picture helps you avoid last-minute debt. 

Cut Textbook Costs

• Buy used or rent: Check Amazon, eBay, or Chegg before paying full price.
• Digital versions: E-books are often cheaper than physical copies.
• Swap with peers: Many upperclassmen sell their books at a discount once they graduate.
• Library access: Your university or even local library may carry the key titles you need absolutely free of charge.

Take Advantage of In-State Tuition

Out-of-state rates can double or even triple your costs depending on the institution you are looking at. Whenever possible, apply to CRNA programs in your home state. If you’re set on an out-of-state program, ask if they offer regional tuition agreements or residency waivers for nursing students.

Apply for Scholarships and Loan Forgiveness

• Look into AANA Foundation scholarships, Nurse Corps programs, and state-specific nursing awards.
• If you plan to work in an underserved area after graduation, consider applying for loan repayment or forgiveness programs through HRSA or state health departments.

Be Smart About Living Expenses

• Share housing with roommates to cut rent.
• Use public transit, if available, instead of maintaining a car.
• Meal prep instead of eating out.

These types of small changes can really add up over three years.

Choose Schools With High Success Rates

A “cheap” program isn’t a bargain if graduates struggle to pass the National Certification Examination. Schools with high board-pass and job placement rates offer better long-term return on investment. Some also provide strong career services to help you land a well-paying job quickly after graduation.

Cheapest Online Schools for CRNA

While CRNA programs require hands-on clinical training, several schools now offer hybrid formats, which allows students to complete didactic coursework online while fulfilling clinical rotations in person. This model makes pursuing a CRNA degree more flexible and, in some cases, more affordable.It’s important to always confirm that your chosen program is COA-accredited (Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs), as this is required to sit for the National Certification Examination.

Affordable Online & Hybrid CRNA Programs

In no particular order, here are three notable online/hybrid options for your CRNA programs. 

1. University of Akron – Post-BSN to DNP
   • Students can complete this program in as little as two years. 
   • Offers foundational science courses and anesthesia core content online.
2. Drexel University – DNP Nurse Anesthesia
   • The first portion of this program is fully online. 
   • Clinical immersion at partner hospitals in Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
   • Curriculum emphasizes evidence-based anesthesia practice and leadership.
     
3. University of Pittsburgh – MSN to DNP Nurse Anesthesia
   • Designed for CRNAs who already hold a master’s degree.
   • Coursework is 100% online with clinicals tailored to current professional practice.
   • Strong option for CRNAs seeking to advance into leadership, research, or teaching roles.

Pro tip: If you’re weighing online programs, consider where their clinical sites are located. Even with hybrid formats, you’ll need to be on-site for residencies, so factor travel and housing costs into your budget when comparing affordability.

Will Attending an Online CRNA School Save Me Money?

Yes and no. Hybrid and online CRNA programs can reduce costs, but savings depend on your personal financial situation. While online formats can help you avoid relocation and lower commuting expenses, tuition itself is often similar to traditional programs. The real financial advantage comes from cutting housing, transportation, and lifestyle costs if you can stay where you already live.

Benefits of Online & Hybrid CRNA Programs

1. Lower Living & Travel Costs
If you live far from a university offering a CRNA program, these types of hybrid models let you complete most didactic courses remotely. That means fewer expenses for housing, commuting, or relocating for school.

2. Flexibility for Work-Life Balance
Remote coursework often allows for greater schedule flexibility, which can make it easier to balance study with family or part-time work (though keep in mind CRNA programs are still very demanding).

3. Comparable Tuition, but Fewer Hidden Fees
Tuition rates at hybrid CRNA programs are generally the same as in-person ones, but you’ll likely save on campus fees, parking, and meal plans. Non-resident students may also find online options more affordable than physically moving to an out-of-state campus.

4. Transfer & Online Credits
Some programs accept transfer credits from prior graduate-level nursing coursework, reducing your overall cost and time to completion. Always confirm with the program’s admissions office before applying.

5. Customized Learning Environment
Not everyone thrives in a classroom. Online learning gives you control over your study space, whether that’s your home office, a local library, or a cafe. For many students, this type of study improves focus and reduces stress.

What to Keep in Mind

All CRNA programs require some amount of in-person clinical training, so while online courses save money on classroom attendance, you’ll still need to budget for travel, scrubs, liability insurance, and living expenses near clinical sites.

CRNA Schools Ranking Methodology

We ranked the most affordable CRNA schools using verified tuition and cost data from each program’s official website and other accredited education databases that we have all linked within the article.

Cheapest CRNA Schools FAQ

Sources

1. https://www.aana.com/news/2025-job-market-outlook-for-crnas-nurse-anesthesiologists/
2. https://soeonline.american.edu/blog/private-vs-public-institutions/#:~:text=Due%20to%20government%20funding%2C%20public,often%20have%20higher%20tuition%20costs.
3. https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes291151.htm
4. https://www.prb.org/resources/fact-sheet-aging-in-the-united-states/