A college education is a major investment in your future and can be expensive. Understanding and exploring your financial aid options can help defray your costs.
The first step in applying for financial aid is completing the Free Application for Federal Aid (FAFSA).
Types of financial aid
Loans are borrowed money that you must repay. There are three types of loans: student loans (Stafford Loans or Perkins Loans), parent loans (PLUS loans), and private loans.
Grants are based on your financial need and do not require repayment.
Student employment includes work-study programs and part-time jobs. Nursing students may be eligible for employment as a student nurse after one semester of clinical nursing experience.
Tuition reimbursement is often available to employees of health care agencies and other work settings as an employee benefit. Eligibility for tuition reimbursement varies and may depend on your length of employment, minimum number of working hours per pay period, and commitment to work following your graduation. Employment as a student nurse does not usually qualify you for tuition reimbursement.
Scholarships
Scholarships can help make your nursing education more affordable! Unlike student loans, scholarships are financial awards that do not have to be repaid, making them an important resource to explore as you plan for nursing school.
Scholarships are available from many different sources, including colleges and universities, healthcare organizations, professional nursing associations, foundations, community organizations, and other groups. Each scholarship has its own eligibility requirements. Some may consider academic achievement or financial need, while others focus on leadership, community involvement, career goals, unique experiences, or an interest in a specific area of nursing.
Don’t assume you won’t qualify! Scholarship opportunities are available for students at different stages of their nursing education, so take time to explore your options and apply for opportunities that are a good fit for you.
Start your search: The Johnson & Johnson Nursing Scholarships resource is a helpful place to explore scholarship opportunities for current and future nurses.
Tip: Scholarship deadlines and requirements vary, so start your search early, review eligibility requirements carefully, and consider applying for multiple scholarships.
National Resources
Indiana has dozens of excellent accredited nursing programs from the licensed practical nurse to the doctorate level.