Heading Back to School -- Hitting a Brick Wall

I am also in the same situation, but am very grateful that I even have the option of obtaining federal loans. I would equate hitting a brick wall with not having any aid (federal loans included) available to me.

Have you thought about applying for scholarships?

Scholarships and loans would probably be my last options. I don't know entirely. I don't expect this path to be all sunshine and butterflies... I'm going to do what I can and hope for the best in situations out of my control.

I wouldn't consider this a brick wall at all. The only think you're not qualifying for is grants (free money), right? The government doesn't like to give free money for multiple degrees which I think is understandable since some people would become career students.. but get yourself some loans and follow your dreams.

I was okay with financial aid AND student loans, but as far as diving in with no financial aid and loans, I'm not comfortable with. There's no guarantee I can get into a nursing school after pre-reqs (full-time). And if I pursue this part-time with my job, It could take another 3 years or so before I could even start applying. I'm already 25 and still living at home (working for a non-profit hurts financially). I may consider an LPN program just to get my feet in the door. That would still be more job openings that I'm finding currently.

I'm in the same boat. Bachelors degree (and working full time) does not get you a lot of financial support. I would recommend scholarships as much as possible. Apply for every single one your eligible for. And if it's going to take a while before you start school, you can take the time to volunteer or get a CNA license, which will boost your scholarship-worthy qualities!

If you are thinking about LPN then why not associate in RN. Where I am they are the same amout of time. What about taking classes at a community college...it's way cheaper but make sure your classes will transfer over to a 4yr bachelors program. I took all my pre-reqs at a CC for my associates. I will be taking my bachelors classes while i wait for acceptance into the associate program...different route but same end results!!

Yep, community college is pretty cheap, if you are working part time, you might just pay cash and not even borrow. That's what I'm trying to do.

I did all my prerec classes out of pocket a couple at a time and then will borrow for my BSN. Unless you have your 1st degree in biology you'll likely have prerecs to take and be careful some places will not accept sciences over 7 years old. With the way prerecs build you could easily work and take your prerecs. I'm maxed out on subsidized loans and grants but have just enough left in unsubsidized loans for my core BSN program..