LPN Programs That Offer Financial Aid: Online & Campus
Becoming a practical nurse is a rewarding goal, but the cost of education can be a challenge. Many licensed practical nurse (LPN) and licensed vocational nurse (LVN) programs offer financial aid to help make everything more affordable. In this guide, we explore the best financial aid options for aspiring nurses, and show you some of today’s top programs that provide aid and accept FAFSA.
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Inside LPN/LVN Programs & Financial Aid
The cost of LPN/LVN programs varies by location, institution, and program length. While tuition and fees at some institutions can range from $10,000 to $25,000 per year, others have more affordable options for students on a budget (or just looking to spend smart). These colleges offer practical nursing programs for as little as $3,000 – $4,000 annually.
How do these places give students the chance to earn a certificate or degree at a lower rate? It usually boils down to a number of factors.
- Federal financial aid: Schools with regional accreditation qualify for federal assistance. This includes Federal Pell Grants and Federal Direct Loans.
- Institutional aid: Many schools offer financial assistance themselves. Sometimes you can receive this aid on top of other aid.
- Scholarships: Private scholarships, school scholarships, and other sources of free money can make a huge difference.
- Tuition assistance: Some employers help students pay for college as long as they work or promise to work during school or after graduation.
Before applying for a program, make sure you know what the program offers, both academically and financially. The three programs below can give you more detailed insight into what to expect from a practical nursing program with solid financial assistance.
Herzing University
Herzing University’s 12-month Practical Nursing Diploma program offers online general education courses; core nursing courses must be completed at one of the school’s eight campuses, located from Florida to Wisconsin. Herzing University offers a variety of scholarships and loan options to help students finance their education:
Federal Loans
- Direct PLUS/Grad PLUS Loans: For graduate students or parents of dependent undergraduate students. Requires a credit check.
- Direct Subsidized Loans: Based on financial need. Interest does not accrue while students are enrolled at least half-time.
- Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Available regardless of financial need. Interest accrues immediately after disbursement.
To qualify, students must complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) form.
State and Private Loans
- Minnesota Self Loan: Low-interest educational loan for Minnesota residents.
- Nursing Student Loan (Wisconsin residents only): Loans are forgiven if the student works as an LPN in Wisconsin after graduation.
Herzing University Scholarships
- Herzing University Completion Grant: For students who completed specific requirements.
- Military and First Responder’s Appreciation Grant: For active military members and first responders.
- Herzing University Board of Trustees Scholarship: For academic achievement.
- Nurses Circle of Achievement Scholarship: For nursing students who excel in the field.
Rasmussen University
The Practical Nursing Diploma program at Rasmussen University can be completed in as few as 12 months of full-time study. Eight start dates are available throughout the year. This program stands apart thanks to the LPN Care Grant; eligible students receive up to $2,000, distributed across the first four quarters. The estimated total program cost is $25,339.
To qualify for an LPN Care Grant, students must maintain continuous enrollment; they cannot combine the grant with other university scholarships or grants. Additionally, they cannot be employees of the university.
Rasmussen University offers other financial aid options to help students fund their education, including:
- Active-Duty Tuition Pricing and Military Tuition Grant: The school offers $167 per credit tuition pricing for active-duty service members and a 10% tuition grant for National Guard and Reserve soldiers, retired military personnel, veterans, and their spouses and dependents who enroll in degree, diploma, or certificate programs.
- Federal Loans Provided by FAFSA: The school offers Federal Direct Subsidized Loans, Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans, and Federal Direct PLUS Loans. These loans are available to eligible students based on financial need and enrollment status.
- Private/Alternative Loans: Offered by private lenders, these loans might require a credit check and often require a co-signer. Rasmussen University provides tools like Credible and FastChoice, which allow students to compare loan options and find the best terms for their financial situation.
CNI College
CNI College’s Vocational Nursing Program offers an affordable and comprehensive pathway to licensure as an LVN. Tuition is often significantly lower compared to many for-profit schools. The total program cost is $36,800, including supplies, fees, and tests.
To help manage these costs, the school accepts various forms of financial aid:
- Federal Aid
- Federal Pell Grant (FPELL)
- Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
- Stafford Loans – William D. Ford Federal Direct Loans
- Alternative (Private) Loans: These loans are designed for students who need additional assistance after exhausting federal financial aid, with the option to apply through lending institutions likeELMSelect.
CNI College’s financial aid advisors offer personalized guidance throughout the application process; they ensure that all necessary documents are submitted and excess federal funds are refunded to students. However, students should be mindful of non-refundable registration fees and strict cancellation/refund policies.
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FAQs About LPN/LVN Programs with Financial Aid
Financing an LPN or LVN education can feel overwhelming, but plenty of options exist to make it more affordable. You might wonder if the FAFSA form can be used for LPN or LVN programs, if free education is an option, how scholarships can help, or what payment plans are available.
Below, we’ll answer each of these questions to help guide you through your financial journey. Keep reading to learn more.
Can you use the FAFSA form for an LPN or LVN program?
Yes, you can use the FAFSA form for an LPN or LVN program if your school is accredited and approved by the U.S. Department of Education.
You can check if your school qualifies by using theFederal School Code search feature, which tracks the codes assigned to eligible schools. If you’re unsure, contact the school’s financial aid office to confirm eligibility.
Completing the FAFSA opens the door to federal financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities that can help cover tuition, books, and supplies. This makes it easier to fund your education.
Here’s how you can get started:
- Fill out the FAFSA form online at studentaid.gov.
- Authorize your school to access your information using the school code (e.g., 032423).
- Create a Federal Student Aid ID (FSA ID) at studentaid.gov/fsa-id. You’ll need this ID to sign forms and manage your records online.
If you’re a dependent student, your parents will also need their own FSA IDs to complete the FAFSA form. Be sure to use your most recent tax return to ensure accurate income reporting. Remember that you need to submit a new FAFSA application every year if you stay in an LPN or LVN program, as the application does not renew automatically.
Can I become an LPN or LVN for free?
While earning an LPN or LVN credential entirely for free is uncommon, several ways exist to reduce costs significantly. Many states offer workforce training grants; some schools provide full-tuition scholarships for qualified students. Military benefits like theGI Bill or programs such as the HRSA Nurse Corps Scholarship help cover most expenses.
Additionally, community colleges often offer tuition-free programs or discounted rates for eligible students. To find these opportunities, check online resources likeFastweb.com orScholarships.com and reach out to local workforce development centers. With the right combination of resources, you can make your LPN or LVN education much more affordable.
Are scholarships available for LPN or LVN programs?
Many scholarships are available for LPN or LVN programs to help reduce tuition costs. Organizations like theNational Association for Practical Nurse Education and Service, Inc. (NAPNES) offer awards to support nursing students. Additionally, the Nurse Corps Scholarship Program provides financial assistance to aspiring nurses.
Local hospitals, community foundations, and state nursing associations also offer funding opportunities. For instance, theTylenol Future Care Scholarship helps students pursue careers in healthcare, including LPN or LVN studies.
You can also find scholarships through community colleges, local healthcare facilities, and scholarship databases. Check with your school’s financial aid office for local opportunities.
How can I pay for an LPN or LVN school?
Paying for an LPN or LVN school can be achieved through a variety of funding sources. Many students combine federal aid, such as FAFSA grants (including the Pell Grant), with student loans like the Federal Direct Loan Program. Scholarships and state-specific awards can also help offset tuition.
For example, some community colleges offer work-study programs that allow you to earn while you learn. Employer tuition reimbursement programs and local foundations like theAmerican Red Cross might also provide financial assistance. Combining these options with budgeting strategies can help you effectively cover tuition, books, and supplies.
Common Funding Options for LPN/LVN Students
Several funding options are available to help aspiring LPN or LVN students finance their education. These options include federal student aid, institutional scholarships and grants, and flexible payment plans. These options make it easier to manage tuition costs, cover living expenses, and ensure you receive the quality training needed for a successful nursing career.
Federal Student Aid
Federal student aid is a great way to make an LPN or LVN education more affordable. The main way to access this aid is through theFree Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, which determines your eligibility based on personal finances and income. Federal aid is free to apply for and offers a range of financial options. Anyone can apply for this aid. Eligibility and the amount awarded depends on your personal finances and income. This aid is free to apply for, so check it out first.
Institutional Aid
Institutions often provide financial aid through scholarships, grants, and work-study programs directly from nursing schools and colleges. This aid might include merit-based awards, need-based grants, or tuition discounts for LPN/LVN students. Many schools also offer flexible payment plans and emergency funds. Institutional aid helps relieve your financial burden and allows you to focus on hands-on training and clinical experiences, which are crucial for success in nursing.
Payment Plans
Payment plans provide LPN/LVN students with an easier way to manage tuition expenses by breaking them down into smaller installments. These plans are typically arranged through a school’s financial aid office; they might offer options like deferred payments or installment loans. Flexible deadlines help reduce a program’s upfront financial pressure so you can focus on your clinical studies. You can gain the practical experience needed to succeed in an LPN or LVN program without worrying about immediate financial strain.
Scholarships and Grants
Scholarships and grants are excellent financial options that do not require repayment. LPN/LVN students can qualify for these funds based on academic performance, financial need, and/or community involvement. These awards can help cover tuition, books, and other expenses and reduce your financial burden. These funds are often provided by private organizations, state agencies, or the nursing school itself, and they allow you to focus on your studies and clinical practice.
Examples:
- Amount: $1,000
- The F.A. Davis Scholarship is offered by F.A. Davis – a company dedicated to supporting the education of future healthcare professionals, particularly in nursing and related health science fields.
Nurse Corps Scholarship Program
- Amount: Up to $1,000
- The Nurse Corps Scholarship Program offers scholarships to nursing students in exchange for a minimum two-year full-time service commitment at an eligible healthcare facility that’s experiencing a critical nursing shortage.
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