The Costs for LPN Schools and Training
For those interested in pursuing a healthcare career, the relatively low costs for LPN schools and training make pursuing a career as an LPN an attractive choice.
While the cost of training as an RN or Physician’s Assistant can run into the several tens of thousands dollars, the cost of LPN training is significantly less. Additionally, the length of training required for an LPN is significantly less than that required for many healthcare professions, allowing one to enter the workforce sooner.
The Costs for LPN Schools and Training Depends on the Institution
The costs for LPN schools and training vary greatly depending on the type of institution one chooses to attend and the area of the country in which one lives. People who decide to enter the nursing profession in their teens may have the opportunity to receive LPN training in high school. The high school training programs usually occur in the senior year and typically do not have any tuition costs associated with them. The military also offers free LPN training for those who are willing to enlist in the armed forces.
For those who have already completed high school or have a GED, many public technical or vocational schools have low cost training programs for LPNs. The costs for these LPN schools and training typically range from $1,000 to $10,000. The variance accounted for by the geographic area in which the school is located. In addition, the aspiring LPN must also pay for books, equipment, such as a stethoscope and blood pressure cuff, and uniforms. The total cost for these items ranges from $750 to $1500. Private school, fast track programs, and for profit training programs can cost as much as $30,000. Graduates from all of these programs must also pay for NCLEX-PN, which is the licensing exam required for LPN’s.
Funding to Pay the Costs for LPN Schools and Training
Many sources of funding exist to pay the costs for LPN schools and training. In order to access most sources financial aid, it is necessary to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the Federal and State Deadlines and to indicate the school one plans to attend. Pell grants are available for low income students and some schools might have scholarships that will cover tuition costs. Both Federal and private student loans are available to fund the costs for LPN schools and training not covered by grants and scholarships.
