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Guide to the Best Online BSN Programs with Financial Aid

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Author: Colleen Kienbaum, RN, BSN
Editor: Mikalee Byerman

Explore online BSN degrees with financial aid options to help make your nursing education dreams more affordable and achievable

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A smiling healthcare worker, dressed in scrubs, is seated and surrounded by colleagues clapping in celebration. She is looking towards another person with braided hair, both appearing happy. The background includes people in business and medical attire.

The increasing popularity of online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs is improving access to nursing education. Aspiring nurses like you now can balance work, family, and school commitments like never before.

And the availability of financial aid — including scholarships, grants, and loans — can help you receive the financial support you need to make your BSN dreams a reality without breaking the bank.

You’re taking a proactive first step by exploring online BSN degrees with financial aid options. Whether you’re just starting out, looking for an accelerated online BSN degree, or already an RN (maybe even seeking a popular bridge RN to BSN program), this degree will equip you with the advanced knowledge and skills needed to provide high quality patient care. The benefits don’t end there, as you’ll experience a significant return on investment when you earn your degree: Higher pay and expanded job opportunities are just two ways earning a BSN can reveal that ROI.

So if you’re driven to unlock your full potential and transform your nursing career, take time to explore these online BSN programs that offer the perfect combination of accessibility, affordability, and financial aid tailored to your unique educational and financial needs. Keep reading to witness new doors opening, revealing a path to your fulfilling nursing career.

Ready to take the next step in your nursing career? Pursuing a BSN degree using financial aid may be your best option. We’ve curated a list of top online BSN programs that not only provide exceptional nursing education, but also offer a variety of financial aid options to help put a BSN degree within reach.

Ohio State University Online

Students looking to join the online RN to BSN bridge program from Ohio State University Online (OSU)will be able to choose from a 12-month full-time or 15-month part-time plan of study. Students must have already earned their Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and successfully passed the licensing NCLEX-RN exam to apply.

This CCNE-accredited RN to BSN program at OSU can be completed entirely online with a total of 25 credit hours required. Without financial aid, the program costs $567 per credit hour, which includes instructional, general, and program fees. The online university recognizes that paying for college is a big financial commitment and offers a wealth of information regarding financial aid on its website. In order to make the RN to BSN program more affordable and accessible, OSU provides all required resources for nursing classes, meaning students won’t pay extra for nursing textbooks. Students also have access to scholarships offered through the College of Nursing.

University of Central Florida

A convenient and flexible path for licensed RNs to earn their Bachelor Of Science In Nursing is through University of Central Florida’s online RN to BSN bridge program. The schedule and curriculum were designed to fit around a working nurse’s schedule, as you can earn the 30 required credits on a part-time or full-time basis. You’ll earn your degree in as little as three semesters, depending on the number of classes taken per term.

With reduced tuition costs through fee waivers for some campus-based amenities, this program is now more affordable than ever for students seeking to advance their career with a BSN. The program costs $212 per credit for in-state Florida residents and $749 per credit for out-of-state residents.

According to UCF, college should provide lifelong benefits and not lifelong debt, which is why they work hard to offer financial aid to help students find scholarships, grants, and affordable student loans to help pay for college.

University of Providence

Logo of the University of Providence, featuring the letters "UP" in a stylized, circular design on the left and the text "University of Providence" to the right in green and blue capital letters.

The online RN to BSN bridge program at University of Providence sets the standard for nursing excellence by combining education, innovation, and compassionate care. As part of its commitment to supporting the nursing profession, the school offers a Healthcare Professionals Tuition Incentive (HPTI), in which currently employed healthcare professionals have the opportunity to apply tuition discounts to health-related programs.

The undergraduate cost for the BSN program is $978 per credit, but with the utilization of the HPTI, this cost drops to $488 per credit. Both full-time and part-time professionals can utilize the program, and it’s eligible for healthcare professionals nationwide. The school also offers robust financial aid packages to reduce the burden of the cost of education.

A further attractive benefit to students is the choice of synchronous or asynchronous learning: You can join classmates online through live, virtual, bi-weekly lectures, or complete coursework on your own schedule with pre-recorded virtual lectures.

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Most Common Types of Financial Aid for BSN Students

Understanding the various types of financial assistance available can help you make informed decisions and create a plan that works best for your unique situation. If the world of financial aid feels overwhelming, take a look at the following helpful resources to reduce your educational costs — and maybe even finish college debt-free wheel obtaining your Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Scholarships

Scholarships are a highly sought-after form of financial aid for BSN students because they provide funding that does not require repayment. Scholarships can be awarded for different reasons including academic excellence, merit, need, or based on certain eligibility requirements. They are offered by various organizations, including private foundations, nursing associations, and educational institutions. Many universities provide scholarships specifically for their nursing students. You’ll also find numerous private scholarships available to BSN students, some of which can focus on specialties, regions, or demographics. Students who diligently research and apply for scholarships like those featured below can significantly reduce the cost of their BSN education.

Grants

Many BSN students look for ways to fund their nursing education without the burden of debt. Grants are an excellent way to help reduce the cost associated with obtaining a nursing degree. Because grants rarely require repayment, they can be a game-changer when it comes to paying for college. In most instances, grants are awarded based on financial need, academic merit, or demographics, providing opportunities for students from all walks of life. Grants commonly come from federal and state governments, healthcare organizations, nursing associations, private foundations, and even the universities or programs to which you’re applying. Here are just a few examples of institutions that award grants:

Loans

When it comes to financing your BSN degree, student loans can be a valuable tool to help you bridge the gap between your available resources and the cost of your education. While loans do require repayment, usually with interest, they do offer the opportunity to invest in your future as a nurse and unlock doors to countless career opportunities. Loans are available from sources that are federal, private, and nursing-specific, such as healthcare organizations. Evaluate the long-term implications of borrowing money for student loans so that you have a solid repayment plan in place that is in alignment with your personal and professional goals.

Financial Aid Eligibility & Application Checklist for BSN Students

Your dream of earning a BSN degree is admirable but may feel hindered by your ability to pay for college. Rest assured that with proper guidance and preparation, you can secure the funding you need to support your nursing education journey. To help you make the most of the financial aid opportunities available, we’ve created a checklist designed specifically for Bachelor of Science in Nursing students. Below are the steps to take to begin your financial aid journey.

Complete the FAFSA Early

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is your gateway to federal financial assistance for your BSN education. Many nurses have had the cost of their BSN program reduced through FAFSA assistance. By completing the FAFSA early, you can increase your chances of receiving funds before they run out. Don’t wait — make sure to submit your FAFSA as soon as possible!

Thoroughly Review Eligibility Criteria & Requirements

To secure financial aid for your online BSN education, start by thoroughly reviewing the eligibility criteria and requirements for each type of aid you are interested in using. This will help you zero in on the opportunities that align with your individual circumstances and also save you time by highlighting the financial aid opportunities you fully qualify for.

Check Deadlines and Apply Early

Life can get busy, causing deadlines to sneak up on you. Make sure to check deadlines and submit your applications early. This not only demonstrates your proactiveness and commitment to your BSN education, but it also improves your chances of securing funding. Financial aid deadlines can vary depending on the type of aid and the organization offering it, so keep a tailored list handy to track these important application deadlines.

Gather All Necessary Documents

No matter what form of financial aid you plan to apply for, you will likely be asked to submit additional documents. These documents can include copies of Social Security and other personal identification, tax documentation, or bank information, and they’re used to verify the information in your application. By having these documents ready ahead of time, you will be able to streamline the application process.

Receive Feedback on Supplemental Materials

Supplemental materials may be requested as part of your BSN application. Essays, personal statements, and letters of recommendation are types of supplemental documents you may be asked to submit to demonstrate your qualifications, unique experiences, and goals. Seeking feedback from a reputable source in advance will give you time to make any changes and ensure your materials are an accurate reflection of your knowledge and skills.

Review Award Letters

When financial aid organizations send you award letters, they are providing official documentation that outlines the specific types and amounts of funding they are willing to offer you for your BSN education. Upon receiving an award letter, take time to meticulously review all the details within, paying close attention to the various forms of aid being presented, as well as any associated terms, conditions, and requirements you must meet to maintain your eligibility.

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Colleen Kienbaum, RN, BSN AUTHOR

Colleen has worked in several nursing specialties including emergency medicine, cardiac care and perioperative services before becoming a full-time nurse writer. Currently, she holds CPAN and CAPA certifications and enjoys the dynamic role nurses play in today's healthcare. Colleen is also a military spouse and mother who enjoys traveling and exploring new places with her family.

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Mikalee Byerman

Mikalee Byerman EDITOR

Mikalee Byerman (which rhymes with “prickly fireman,” though she claims to be neither grumpy nor adept at fire suppression) is a freelance writer/editor, marketing coach, humor strategist, keynote speaker, and author of “100 Things to Do in Reno Before You Die.” She holds a master’s degree in journalism, and her writing has been featured in Ladies’ Home Journal, Southwest Spirit Magazine, and Alaska Airlines Magazine, as well as on the Huffington Post. She was named “Best Creative Writer” and “Best Local Author” in the Best of Nevada awards. 

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