How do you pay for accelerated BSN?

Nursing Students General Students

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So I know it's generally not suggested to work during ABSN programs, and even if you did, you likely wouldn't be working enough hours to fully support yourself plus pay for school expenses (tuition, books, etc.). How is everyone paying for living expenses and tuition? I was planning on taking out loans. I was hoping to get federal loans, but I'm sure it won't cover everything so either way I'll need to take out private loans. Does anyone have any suggestions for good private loans to take out? I was looking into Discover. I'm hoping they'll let me borrow enough to cover expenses like rent, car insurance, etc. If anyone has more info on loans and paying for everything when not having an income, please let me know!

I am a second degree student as well. I rely on the federal loans to cover tuition. However, I have been saving up for the last year or so o cover my bills like rent, food etc. Some people may suggest that you work at least part-time. If you are able to, then why not. You may also get a roommate, move in back with the family to save up on the living expenses.

Specializes in mental health / psychiatic nursing.

For me it was a combination of savings, scholarship, and loans for tuition and reducing living expenses so we could survive on my spouse's income. The more you can save to cover living expenses and/or cut back living expenses the better.

Specializes in NICU.

Combination of savings, working two 12 hr night shifts per week, and creative use of my credit cards. One of my cards allowed me to do a balance transfer to my checking account (0% for 18 mo. 3% fee, essentially a 2% loan). My ABSN program was 15 mo. so I graduated by the time the offer expired. The remaining balance was transferred to another card for another 18 months. So, a 2% loan for 3 yrs.

Disclaimer: My ABSN program cost me $22K. Your debt load may differ.

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