Taking loan out to cover expenses during nursing school

Summer Days · May 30, 2015

I have maintained full time work all throughout nursing school and would advise you to do the same if you want to stay away from student loans as I have. I do have to warn you though that full time work + full time ns is no joke. Expect feeling overwhelmingly exhausted, but discipline and determination will get you thru.

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · May 30, 2015

I worked full-time as an LVN while attending an LPN-to-ASN transition program full-time. Never in a million years would I originate $60,000 in living expense loans. I'd rather use that money to invest in real estate, an IRA, or something worthwhile.

johsonmichelle · May 30, 2015

Was talking to a friend who just started nursing school, BSN, has a degree already said will take her two year's. Took out an $60,000 loan to pay for school and living expenses. I was figuring I work during nursing school, but everyone I talk to who are nurse's say don't and they never did.
I know it's a lot of information and work. Was hoping to do 24-32 hour's a work at night or weekend's. Work three times during the week.
What's your thoughts on working during nursing school?

Before taking out that loan, have you researched the availability of jobs for new grads? Have you researched what the average new nursing pay is? Do you have any existing debt? These are crucial things you need to consider before taking out a huge school loan. It definitely doable to work and go to school, but it will all depend on the individual. I'm just interviewed for a pct job and was offered a full time position which I have accepted. I will begin my third semester this fall and will be working full time, I will have to be very disciplined. So working and going to nursing school is definitely doable.

AJayG3310 · May 30, 2015

I have the same questions... I can't get financial aid for the LPN-RN program. I'm an LPN and work part-time and will do so during school. I'll need a student loan for my 3 semesters. I didn't think of taking out a huge loan for living expenses ðŸ˜³ that's why I'll be working.

Does anyone have any advice about loans, scholarships etc?

WCSU1987 · May 30, 2015

Really don't feel like taking loans out. If I could do a part time program think work be doable. Going to go for the LPN program and try to work hopefully four night's a week.

windsurfer8, BSN, RN · May 30, 2015

Key points.....Knowing what is available in the area and what they pay is vital. Some hospitals only hire BSN prepared RNs. Also figure out what your payments would be on 60K and be realistic on paying them back. 60K in loans you could end up with interest paying 90K or more. Read the fine print. Know your interest rate. Good luck.

E_Simmons74 · May 31, 2015

I have several NP friends and a few of the took out loans while in school. At least three of them have to work two jobs to make it now. I chose to work as long as I can part time so that when I finish school I will not spend the rest of my life paying back loans, or even work two jobs.

ExpBrittany · May 31, 2015

I don't think taking out student loans is a bad thing. I think it depends on "how much" is taken out. Try working part time first to see how things go. I know TOO many students who have failed classes, failed completely out of the program or barely passing working full time.

Try financial aid & scholarships. Work to save up money before starting. Only take out federal loans offered by the school, not those private loans. I repeat: NO PRIVATE LOANS.

Good luck!