Most Affordable Online MSN Programs for 2024

How much financial aid you can secure for your online MSN program

The amount of financial aid you get depends on several factors, such as if your school provides scholarships to nursing students and if your income level makes you eligible for certain grants. You may be able to receive financial aid from the federal and state government, as well as from your school and professional nursing organizations that want to help nurture people in the field.

If the MSN program has a class schedule that allows you to continue working

Many online MSN programs offer courses on an asynchronous basis, meaning you can access the classwork at your convenience. In addition schools may also have short semesters, allowing you to finish classes in weeks instead of months. These programs are made with busy nurses in mind, so you can continue making a living as you earn your degree.

Whether you live in-state or out-of-state

Attending a nursing school in-state or out-of-state can have a huge impact on your tuition bill. In fact, in-state tuition can range from $100 to $200 per credit hour depending on the school you attend, while out-of-state tuition can cost around $400 per credit.

How much of the MSN program coursework is offered online

The amount of MSN program coursework offered online depends on the school you attend. In many cases, you can take your entire curriculum online, except for any required practicum to get hands-on training. Some schools may expect you to travel to campus occasionally for laboratory work or special classes, but you’ll save money by not going to campus regularly.

How much it costs to apply

The cost of application fees may not be something you consider as you’re applying to MSN programs, but if you’re interested in several schools those fees can definitely add up. The fee to apply varies depending on the school, but generally you can expect to pay $25 to $100 per application.

If the nursing grad school is private or public

Choosing a private or public nursing school for your graduate studies can also make a huge difference in your tuition rates. Although it varies from one school to the next, in-state tuition costs at public institutions can be half the amount you’d pay at a private college or university.

1. Search for scholarships and grants designed specifically for MSN students.

Be sure to look for scholarships and grants that are specifically designed for nursing students, including funding from federal and state programs, school scholarships, and organizations that cater to the nursing industry. To find out what your options are, review our scholarships for nurse practitioner students and scholarships for nursing students pages for information on the different types of scholarships that are available.

2. Find out if your employer offers a tuition reimbursement program.

You may work at a facility that invests in its employees by offering tuition reimbursement. Employers like Lucille Packard Children’s Hospital, the Mayo Clinic, and Texas Health Resources all have tuition reimbursement programs, so it’s worthwhile to find out if your employer offers this benefit.

3. Explore student discounts.

From education costs to supplies, students can find various ways to save through discounts. For example, local medical supply stores may offer student discounts for scrubs and equipment. To find out more information about sources to help you save money, visit our nursing student discounts page.