How to find financial aid for MSN program?

[It'sMe, RN, BBA, MBA]

Well, it is time to start looking for the money to pay for the BSN/MSN program. The course I am taking is online and will take 18 months. If I don't qualify for federal financial aid I will need to find other sources of aid. The small hospital I work at does not pay enough to cover the full cost of tuition which is $32,000. Any ideas? Even though I have a BBA/MBA I need the BSN/MSN to move up the nursing leadership ladder. I already have a ASN. Any ideas on where to find other sources of aid? Thanks!

[nminodob]

I'm just curious, is your loan through Direct Loan Servicing (the federal lender) or another lender?

I have Direct and Indirect Stafford loans, as well as a loan through Sallie Mae - the Sallie Mae is almost 13%, the Stafford loans (also called the Ford loans) is 4-6%.

[Cinqly, BSN, RN]

I have Direct and Indirect Stafford loans, as well as a loan through Sallie Mae - the Sallie Mae is almost 13%, the Stafford loans (also called the Ford loans) is 4-6%.

Sallie Mae is a private loan. Of course your interest rate will be higher with private loans. Unfortunately that is the price you pay when you need money above and beyond your gov't loan or your scholarships. I too had to take out a Sallie Mae loan once, and my interest rate IS higher than my Direct loans. My rates for my Stafford loans are under 4%. The rates are variable, but they tend to stay very low. (As long as you pay on time after the deferment period is over!). The OP should be able to qualify for a certain amount in Stafford, or gov't loans, and if needed the rest can be paid for with private loans.

I still recommend looking at your state career center. There are many state and federal grants that will provide money that you DON'T have to pay back, as long as you can get a job. Your school's financial aid office is a GREAT resource as well! Make an appointment with a counselor to explore your options! You will get there.

[It'sMe, RN, BBA, MBA]

Thanks. Right now I am having trouble even getting my gross from last year since I was self employed. My accountant and my wife are so good at not showing taxable income that my gross looks like zero, which should be a red flag and get me zero loans. Oh well....