How to pay for ABSN? Tips?

For me - ABSN was my only option.  It wasn't cheap.  Student loans was the answer.  Its a terrible answer.  On the other hand, I did work 4 jobs for the year before I went to save up $$ to pay my mortgage while I was in school so I didn't have to take out additional $$ for living expenses.  It is what it is.  I paid off my student loans once, I can do it again.

I'm still waiting to hear if I've been accepted to my ABSN program so I haven't actually paid for anything just yet. But I am saving enough so that I can quit my current job and go to school full time without loans once I am accepted. 

I've been fortunate to be able to structure my life so that I live small - I am renting out a couple of rooms in a friend's house.  My advice to you is to save like crazy to avoid taking on debt as much as possible. ?

Once I get accepted, I'm also going to look into scholarships and grants. You may also want to look into Nurse Corps or see if your state has a loan forgiveness program. 

The very best of luck to you!