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Nursing is such a respected field that many have a dream of caring for others through the medical profession. Though there are good intentions and those wishing to fulfill their dreams when it comes time to pay the tuition they are left wondering how to afford it. College is not cheap and it carries a heft price when a person is working to make a living. Unfortunately most people can simply afford to stop working to begin attending school. In fact taking care of a family is one of the leading reasons that most can not afford to obtain a higher education. That is the reason that there are many resources out there to help individuals obtain their nursing degree.

State Scholarships

Most states have a scholarship aimed primarily at nursing school students. These scholarships range in funding amounts, but many of them help with tuition, books and in some cases living expenses. Some states are fortunate enough to have several scholarships for students allowing the wealth and opportunity to be spread around. Since scholarships are not required to be paid back every student wishes to obtain them and there is a huge need sometimes making them difficult to obtain. The way to reduce the difficulty is to watch the deadlines for submission or application and ensure that you are well before the cutoff or deadline. In fact since they are on a first come first serve basis it is important to be one of the most early applicants. There is only so much money to go around and if you are one of the first, you will likely obtain more financing for your program.

Grants are the same way and many organizations provide grants for students wishing to enter a nursing program. Again they are time sensitive as well so it is important to ensure that the deadline and application guidelines are met. Grants do not have to be paid back as well.

Health Care Organizations

Some health care organizations nationwide as well as locally provide monies for students wishing to obtain their nursing degree. This is because they are always in need of quality nurses and can ensure their applicant pool if they promote college graduates. This is also their way of giving back to the community and providing opportunities for students that may have not had the chance at education. If there are larger doctors offices, hospitals, teaching hospitals or other medical facilities it is a good idea to contact the human resources office to learn about all the money or scholarship opportunities within the organization. Some require that a family member or other relative work for them so be sure and check into the requirements before applying. You may also have to sign a contract for a set period of time to work for them after graduation. This is a great thing because not only is your education being paid for, but you are also guaranteed a job after graduation. And, what many students do not realize is that just because you have a certification, license or degree does not ensure an immediate source of income. So this is a great way to secure both!

Nursing School Loans

There are also a number of private loans to help finance nursing school. The only thing about a loan is the fact that they must be repaid. They also accrue interest and can be burdensome after graduation. They should be the students last resort when looking for money to pay for school. If a scholarship or grant is available it only makes sense to obtain 'free money' before taking out a loan. Unfortunately not everyone qualifies or obtains scholarships so nursing school loans are also a good way to pay for the expenses of college. When looking for a loan makes sure to speak to the lender about repayment, interest and the different options of the loan. In some cases you will be expected to make monthly payments throughout the education experience and in other cases the payments can be deferred until after graduation. This is important because it can take away from your education if you are having to work to pay for student notes while trying to study. The main focus in nursing school should be the academics and nothing else.