Nursing is one of the most stable and in-demand careers in the United States, with registered nurse jobs projected to keep growing at a rate that’s faster than the national average in the next decade.1 But tuition, fees, and clinical requirements can make nursing school feel financially out of reach.
The good news is that affordable options exist. From community colleges to public universities, there are affordable nursing schools that combine quality education with lower costs. This guide will walk you through some of the most affordable nursing programs in the country, financial aid strategies, and practical tips to help you save money while preparing for a rewarding healthcare career.
Key Takeaways
- Affordable nursing schools include both public and private institutions with lower tuition and strong licensure preparation.
- Costs go beyond tuition and fees, with clinical supplies, health insurance, and housing adding to the total price of attendance.
- Nursing offers diverse career paths, from registered nurse to nurse anesthetist, with salaries and job growth influenced by education level and specialization.
- Financial aid, scholarships, and loan repayment programs can make nursing school more accessible.
- Online RN-to-BSN and graduate programs provide flexible, cost-effective options for working nurses.
- Choosing a school with the right accreditation and NCLEX preparation ensures your investment leads to licensure and career advancemen
What Are the Most Affordable Nursing Schools in the US?
The most affordable nursing schools in the US are Oklahoma City University, Florida State University, and University of West Georgia. Our list of affordable nursing programs covers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate programs that will help advance your career in nursing or healthcare. The universities offer accredited nursing curricula that can help students and professional nurses complete their collegiate nursing education.
How Much Do the Cheapest Nursing Schools Cost?
Cheapest nursing schools in the US typically cost between a few thousand and low five figures annually, depending on residency and program format. The cost of a nursing major will vary by school, student residency, and delivery style. The cost of tuition for online nursing programs tends to be cheaper than for in-person programs. Students can also minimize their cost of attendance by going to community colleges and transferring credits.
Cheapest Nursing Schools Costs Breakdown
The total cost of nursing school includes tuition plus added expenses like clinical fees, supplies, and housing.
- Tuition and fees. Tuition rates and fees are the primary components of any degree in nursing. They make up a large portion of the overall cost of attendance at the nursing school.
- Books and supplies. Universities generally have a set book and supply requirement for nursing and other programs. You might minimize this cost by purchasing used books.
- Health insurance. This cost component applies to in-person nursing students. Many schools require you to purchase a health insurance policy to attend their school.
- Student housing. Housing and accommodation factors tend to increase the overall cost of an affordable nursing program for both in-state and out-of-state students.
- Food. The cost of education also includes food and other necessary expenses. Depending on your preference, you can sign up for school meal plans or manage your own food costs.
- Clinical and lab requirements. Nursing programs often require additional expenses for clinical placements, background checks, immunizations, uniforms, and testing fees.
Why You Should Attend a Nursing School
Nursing school provides the education needed for a stable, rewarding career with strong long-term job demand.1 According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of registered nurses will grow 5 percent over the next decade.1
Collegiate nursing education will help establish your career across clinical practice, pediatric care, cardiac, or critical care nursing sectors. The nursing field rewards experienced nurses who have apt education. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses made a median annual wage of $93,600 nationally.1 Additionally, nursing also offers a stable job outlook because it is resistant to automation and AI disruption.
Best Nursing School Career Options
Graduates of nursing school can pursue careers as nurse anesthetists, nurse practitioners, emergency nurses, or cardiac nurses. Your career growth, trajectory, and salary will be based on your nursing license, professional experience, and nursing education.
You can choose from a wide range of nursing professions but some of the most fruitful nursing careers are in the anesthesia and practitioner fields. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners is projected to grow 35 percent in the next decade, which is much faster than all other occupations.2
Nursing Salary
Nursing salaries will differ by education level, specialization, and location, with advanced practice nurses earning the highest wages. The median annual wage for registered nurses was $93,600 nationally, with nurses working for the government earning the highest wages and nurses in educational settings earning the lowest of the range.1
Your specific salary range is dependent on your choice of nursing profession, educational qualifications, and clinical experience. Prospective nurses with graduate education and practical experience will earn higher wages compared to registered nurses with no advanced degree.
The state of employment also plays a crucial role in determining your nursing salary. You can explore our breakdown of the average nurse salary in the US for more details.
Can You Attend Nursing School for Free?
Nursing school can be free for some students through scholarships, loan repayment programs, or employer-sponsored tuition coverage. Qualified students can apply for merit-based or financial aid-based scholarship opportunities. However, without full financial aid, you cannot attend nursing school entirely for free.
For those wanting a free nursing education, free online courses offered by accredited institutions can be a great educational experience. You can also opt for online nursing programs to minimize your overall cost of education.
Cheapest Nursing Schools That Won’t Break the Bank
| School | In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma City University | $35,648 | $35,648 | 62% |
| Florida State University | $6,517 | $21,683 | 77% |
| University of West Georgia | $7,210 | $21,850 | 25% |
| East Carolina University | $7,437 | $23,714 | 43% |
| Lamar University | $10,894 | $23,044 | 18% |
| University of Nevada-Las Vegas | $9,748 | $27,411 | 26% |
| Indiana State University | $10,258 | $22,962 | 33% |
| Stony Brook University | $10,931 | $34,911 | 65% |
What Are the Cheapest Nursing Schools? A Deep Dive
Paying for Nursing School With Financial Aid
Oklahoma City University
Oklahoma City University offers affordable, accredited nursing programs ranging from RN-to-BSN to doctoral degrees. It was founded in 1904 and is currently home to thousands of students.
Oklahoma City University Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Acceptance Rate: 77%3
- Overall Graduation Rate: 62%3
- Tuition: $35,6483
- Nursing Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, PhD
Top Nursing Degrees at Oklahoma City University
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing – RN to BSN Degrees
- Master of Science in Nursing
- PhD in Nursing
Key Takeaway
Oklahoma City University nursing programs are best suited for students looking for accredited online degree programs with small class sizes
Florida State University
Florida State University’s College of Nursing combines affordable tuition with nationally ranked BSN and DNP programs.
Florida State University Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Acceptance Rate: 24%4
- Overall Graduation Rate: 77%4
- Tuition: $6,517 (in-state), $21,683 (out-of-state)4
- Nursing Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Science, Doctorate
Top Nursing Degrees at Florida State University
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Doctor of Nursing Practice
Key Takeaway
If you are interested in a large public school that focuses on healthcare and research, then Florida State University’s nursing programs are for you.
University of West Georgia
The University of West Georgia offers affordable BSN, MSN, and doctoral nursing programs across two campuses.
University of West Georgia Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Acceptance Rate: 52%5
- Overall Graduation Rate: 25%5
- Tuition: $7,210 (in-state), $21,850 (out-of-state)5
- Nursing Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, Doctorate
Top Nursing Degrees at University of West Georgia
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Master of Science in Nursing
- Doctorate in Nursing Education
Key Takeaway
University of West Georgia nursing programs are great for non-licensed students looking to complete their bachelor’s education while preparing for national RN license exams
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East Carolina University
East Carolina University is one of North Carolina’s largest public universities, known for its prominent nursing programs.
East Carolina University Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Acceptance Rate: 89%6
- Overall Graduation Rate: 43%6
- Tuition: $7,437 (in-state), $23,714 (out-of-state)6
- Nursing Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, PhD
Top Nursing Degrees at East Carolina University
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Master of Science in Nursing
- PhD in Nursing
Key Takeaway
East Carolina University offers one of the most prominent and reputable nursing programs in North Carolina.
Lamar University
Lamar University provides affordable BSN and MSN programs with flexible online options for nursing students.
Lamar University Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Acceptance Rate: 86%9
- Overall Graduation Rate: 18%7
- Tuition: $10,894 (in-state), $23,044 (out-of-state)7
- Nursing Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Science, Master of Science
Top Nursing Degrees at Lamar University
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Master of Science in Nursing
- Dual MSN–MBA in Nursing Administration
Key Takeaway
Lamar University’s nursing programs are apt for students looking for accredited online degree programs.
University of Nevada–Las Vegas
The University of Nevada–Las Vegas offers affordable BSN, MSN, and doctoral nursing programs at a major public research institution.
University of Nevada–Las Vegas Overview
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Acceptance Rate: 85%9
- Overall Graduation Rate: 26%8
- Tuition: $9,748 (in-state), $27,411 (out-of-state)9
- Nursing Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, PhD
Top Nursing Degrees at UNLV
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Educator
- Doctor of Nursing Practice
Key Takeaway
Getting a nursing degree from the University of Nevada–Las Vegas will boost your candidate portfolio as it is a well-recognized university with rich program offerings
Indiana State University
Indiana State University provides affordable nursing degrees from RN-to-BSN through doctoral programs, many available online.
Indiana State University Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Acceptance Rate: 92%9
- Overall Graduation Rate: 33%9
- Tuition: $10,258 (in-state), $22,962 (out-of-state)9
- Nursing Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, PhD
Top Nursing Degrees at Indiana State University
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing – RN to BSN Track
- Master of Science in Nursing
- Doctor of Nursing Practice
Key Takeaway
Indiana State University offers an accelerated RN to BSN track apt for registered nurses looking to solidify their career with affordable bachelor’s degrees.
Stony Brook University
Stony Brook University is a leading New York public institution with CCNE-accredited BSN, MSN, and PhD nursing programs.
Stony Brook University Overview
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Acceptance Rate: 49%10
- Overall Graduation Rate: 65%10
- Tuition: $10,931 (in-state), $34,911 (out-of-state)10
- Nursing Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, PhD
Top Nursing Degrees at Stony Brook University
- Bachelor of Science in Registered Nursing
- Master of Science in Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
- PhD in Nursing
Key Takeaway
Stony Brook University’s nursing department offers a variety of nursing majors that can help you enter lucrative patient care or nursing academia fields.
Paying for Nursing School With Financial Aid
Nursing students can finance their education through federal aid, state grants, loans, and institutional support programs. The financial aid opportunities and eligibility will vary from school to school. You can apply for government, university, or non-government grants to fund your nursing education. Below are a few ways to finance your nursing school tuition and fees.
- Federal Grants. Federal grants, accessed by completing the FAFSA, are government-based education assistance programs for students belonging to lower-income groups. State grants also fall under governmental financial aid but are offered to in-state students applying for public or private nursing universities.
- Federal Loans. Federal loans are education loans offered by the government. You can choose to apply for several types of direct loans for your undergraduate or graduate nursing program. Federal loans are apt for those seeking fixed government-backed interest rates and minimal credit checks.
- Private Loans. Private loans are offered by non-governmental lenders such as banks and credit unions. The interest rates for private education loans are set by the lender. You need to go through credit checks and typically need a cosigner to get approved for a private loan.
- Work Study. Work-study programs fall under federal financial aid opportunities and are offered to students requiring financial aid. You will need to work a certain number of required hours at approved placements to meet your work-study requirements.
Teaching Assistantships. Teaching or research assistantships are great financial aid options for graduate nursing students. You will need to meet the GPA requirements set by the professor to be eligible for these assistantships
How to Apply for Federal Aid to Finance Your Nursing School Program
Applying for federal aid begins with completing the FAFSA and gathering required financial documents. Be sure to check all the eligibility requirements to submit a successful application.
- Create a federal student aid ID. The first step is to create an FSA ID. This requires a username and a password to submit your FAFSA application through the online portal.
- Get the required documents ready. Depending on your application profile, you may need to submit your parent’s social security numbers, driver’s license, alien registration number, and federal tax documents.
- Get your untaxed income and cash information ready. Your federal aid application also requires you to declare any untaxed income, cash, assets, and investments.
- Start the FAFSA application. Once you have gathered all the required documents, you can start the application. You can log into the FAFSA page and complete the application.
- List out the colleges. The next step is to make a list of nursing schools that accept FAFSA aid. You can use the federal school code search to check if your choice of nursing school is listed.
- Report all the necessary financial information. The next step is to upload all the required financial documents. If you are applying as a dependent you need to include your parents’ financial information.
- Verify the information and submit it. The last step is to verify all the information and submit a signed FAFSA form
Best Nursing Scholarships
Numerous nursing scholarships help reduce tuition costs, from local awards to national service-based programs.
- Edna Hicks Fund Scholarship | Amount Varies. The Edna Hicks Fund scholarship is offered to Florida students applying for undergraduate or graduate nursing programs. You need to have a minimum 2.5 GPA to meet the eligibility criteria.
- American Indian Nurse Scholarship | Amount: $1,500. This scholarship is offered to students of American Indian descent interested in nursing programs. It requires the recipients to maintain good academic standing to continue receiving a $1,500 scholarship per semester.
- ENA Emergency Nurses Scholarship | Amount: Up to $10,000. If you are interested in emergency nursing, this scholarship is for you. It requires recipients to be ENA members and have a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Cheapest Undergraduate Nursing Schools
Several universities and community colleges offer affordable associate and bachelor’s nursing programs that prepare students for RN licensure. These nursing programs will help you enter nursing practice, registered nursing, or licensed nursing careers.
Most Affordable Nursing Associate Degree Programs
- Denver College of Nursing | Associate Degree in Nursing | This nursing program is best suited for students who have 18 months of didactic and clinical nursing course experience.
- Bakersfield College | Associate Degree in Nursing | This associate program is designed to prepare you for a career as a registered nurse.
- South Texas College | Associate Degree in Nursing | If you are a licensed vocational nurse or a paramedic wanting to transition into a registered nurse career then this degree is for you.
- Pennsylvania College of Health and Sciences | Associate of Science in Nursing | If you prefer a long-term and flexible degree timeline, this program is for you.
- Allan Hancock College | Associate of Science in Nursing: Registered Nursing (LVN to RN) | Having an associate degree will qualify you to take the NCLEX exam, the licensing requirement for registered nurses.
Most Affordable Nursing Bachelor’s Degree Programs
- Florida State University | Bachelor of Science in Nursing | This on-campus bachelor’s degree will prepare you for the NCLEX exam.
- University of Oklahoma | Bachelor of Science in Nursing | This program is a great choice for full-time nurses looking to expand their education.
- Arizona State University | Bachelor of Science in Nursing | ASU offers both online and in-person nursing programs.
- University of Central Florida | Bachelor of Science in Nursing | This traditional bachelor’s degree is a five-semester program that also prepares you for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Chamberlain University | Bachelor of Science in Nursing | This program covers simulation, pharmacology, and evidence-based nursing.
Cheapest Graduate Schools for Nursing
Affordable graduate nursing schools provide MSN and doctoral pathways for nurses seeking advanced practice or academic careers.^
Most Affordable Schools for Master’s Degrees in Nursing
- The University of Texas at Austin | MSN | Concentrations include gerontology, family practice, pediatric, and leadership nursing.
- Thomas University | MSN | This program focuses on advanced nursing practice and leadership.
- University of Michigan | MSN | Offers clinical and online leadership nursing concentration options.
- Ohio State University | MSN | Ohio State’s MSN program is nationally ranked and includes multiple advanced practice tracks.
- University of San Francisco | Master’s Entry–MSN | This program is designed for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders entering the field.
Most Affordable PhDs in Nursing Universities
- George Mason University | PhD in Nursing | Focused on research and academia.
- University of San Francisco | Doctor of Nursing Practice | Offers concentrations in psychiatric nursing and family practice.
- University of Utah | PhD in Nursing | Covers nursing science and leadership topics.
- University of Minnesota | PhD in Nursing | Includes concentrations in informatics and chronic health conditions.
- University of Kansas | PhD in Nursing | Designed for DNP-prepared and licensed nurses
How to Choose a Good and Affordable Nursing School
Choosing an affordable nursing school means balancing cost, accreditation, licensure preparation, and program reputation. Nursing schools can help advance your career across mental health, clinical, research, and administration fields.
There are several factors to consider while choosing your nursing school:
- Cost. Tuition is an important deciding factor that should be taken into account while choosing a program. Remember that the cost of tuition closely tracks the cost of living, so a cheap school in New York may ding your budget more than an expensive school in Idaho. You can contact the school’s admissions and nursing department to find potential scholarships or research assistantship positions to aid your finances.
- Requirements. The admissions and eligibility requirements for nursing programs vary from school to school. Some require an active license while others don’t. You should choose programs that match your academic and professional background.
- Curriculum. The world of nursing is broad. It can cover clinical, research, practice, or administration areas. You should choose a program that coincides with your career goals and interests.
- Program Reputation. The reputation of a program is a great candidacy-enhancing factor. You should choose a nursing school and a program that is accredited and well-recognized.
- Delivery Method. The delivery method of a program is another essential factor. Online programs are best suited for professional registered nurses looking to get a degree.
Licensure Preparation. Accredited programs approved by state boards of nursing ensure eligibility for the NCLEX licensure exam
Tips for Saving Money While Attending Nursing School
Nursing students can lower education costs through housing choices, assistantships, scholarships, and credit transfers.
- Opt for off-campus housing. In-person students can save money by living in off-campus houses, which are often cheaper compared to university dorms and apartments. In-state students can live with their parents to save more money.
- Apply for teaching assistantships. Teaching assistants typically get their tuition waived. You can apply for a teaching assistantship position with the nursing department to save on your tuition cost.
- Enroll in online nursing programs. Online nursing degrees are generally cheaper than in-person programs. You can get an affordable nursing education at a wide range of online schools.
- Apply for nursing scholarships. There are many private and federal scholarships offered to nursing students. You can apply for nursing scholarships to reduce your tuition costs.
- Transfer credits from an associate degree. This tip is apt for BSN degree aspirants. You can transfer credits from your associate degree to save money on your bachelor’s credit hours.
Employer tuition assistance. Many hospitals and health systems provide tuition reimbursement for employees enrolled in nursing programs.
Highest-Paying Nursing Careers
Some of the highest-paying nursing careers include nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners.
| Nursing Job | Degree | Average Salary |
| Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners | Master’s Degree | $132,0502 |
| Registered Nurse | Bachelor’s | $96,3001 |
| Licensed Practical Nurse | Postsecondary Non-Degree | $62,34011 |
Best Nursing Jobs Explained
Nursing careers range from advanced practice roles like nurse anesthetists to entry-level positions such as licensed practical nurses.^2 Your salary and job outlook rate will vary depending on your state of employment and experience.
Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners
Overall Job Growth: 35%2
Average Salary: $132,0502
These advanced practice nurses provide specialized care, from anesthesia administration to midwifery and patient management across clinical settings.
Registered Nurse
Overall Job Growth: 5%1
Average Salary: $96,3001
Registered nurses deliver direct patient care, administer medications, and work in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings.Licensed Practical Nurse
Overall Job Growth: 3%11
Average Salary: $62,34011
Licensed practical nurses provide base-level patient care under RN supervision, often assisting with daily activities and basic treatments.
Nursing Schools Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Most Affordable Nursing Schools
Our nursing school rankings are based on tuition, accreditation, and outcomes data from federal and institutional sources. We chose the most affordable nursing colleges based on tuition and general cost information from the schools’ official websites, the US News & World Report, and accreditation databases.
Sources
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/nurse-anesthetists-nurse-midwives-and-nurse-practitioners.htm
- https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/oklahoma-city-university-3166
- https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/florida-state-university-1489
- https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/university-of-west-georgia-1601
- https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/east-carolina-university-2923
- https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/lamar-university-3581
- https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/unlv-2569
- https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/indiana-state-university-9563
- https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/stony-brook-suny-2838
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/licensed-practical-and-licensed-vocational-nurses.htm
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
