LPN to RN via Excelsior or College Network?

[veinwhisperer]

Hello everyone...

I am an NYS LPN with 20yrs hospital experience, but LPN's are no longer able to work in hospitals here in NY. I now work as an infusion nurse in a local medical office. I would love to get my RN degree and return to the acute care setting. My issue is that I need to continue to work while going to school so I need to do a distance learning program. In the past I did sign with the College Network (very, very expensive!) and I found that it was not the program for me. I received several boxes of books and materials but I felt there was very little guidance or direction given once the contract was signed. I am still making payments on it, and some of the boxes were never opened. On this site I have read that people buy the required study guides and books used on ebay... is this in addittion to being in a College Network or Excelsior program? It must be ... I have noticed that the distance learning programs do not accept PELL, TAP, Stafford Loans... Please if anyone can tell me the most direct and economical way to reach my goal it would be most appreciated.

[JustBeachyNurse, LPN]

Apply directly to the school. The College Network is simply a publisher who creates study guides that they feel prepare individuals to take the Excelsior exams. Many people say that these expensive study guides are not helpful nor do they adequately prepare them for the exams, while there are a few who find the study guides very useful their preparation for the exams. The College Network is neither affiliated nor endorsed by Excelsior College. In fact Excelsior College discourages perspective students from using outside "study guides". About Test Preparation Services - excelsior.edu

There are a few scholarships and financial aid programs that are available to NYS residents for Excelsior according to their site. Apparently NYS TAP & APTS is available for certain NYS residents: Financial aid for online students - excelsior.edu

New York State Programs - excelsior.edu

Nursing Student and Nursing Faculty Loans - excelsior.edu