Nursing is undoubtedly a rewarding career, but, honestly, getting there can be expensive. Between tuition, fees, clinical supplies, and living expenses, the cost of nursing school can feel overwhelming. So it’s no surprise that more and more students are asking the question, “Can I get paid to go to nursing school?”
It’s a fair question. With the amount of time, energy, and heart you invest in becoming a registered nurse (RN), it’s only natural to want support—financially and otherwise.
The truth? While you won’t likely receive a paycheck for attending class, there are many programs and financial strategies you can explore to make nursing school more affordable. With the support these opportunities present, in some cases, it can feel like you’re getting paid to pursue your dream.
The short answer
Let’s clear up the big question right away. No, students are not paid to attend RN nursing school. There’s no hourly wage or salary offered for attending lectures or participating in clinicals, even though those activities require a vast amount of work.
But don’t let that discourage you. While you might not get a traditional paycheck, there are many opportunities to reduce your costs, earn financial support, and set yourself up for long-term economic success after nursing school. In fact, with the right resources, you could graduate with minimal to no debt, ready to embark upon a whole new life-saving career.
Let’s explore a few options that’ll make it feel almost like you get paid to go to nursing school.
Nursing school scholarships and grants
Let’s get into some different scholarships and grant opportunities. Nursing school scholarships and grants are award-based financial packages. In other words, it’s free money that you don’t have to pay back, unlike a loan. For many students in RN nursing school, this is the most effective way to reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Grants and nursing school scholarships can cover:
- Tuition and fees
- Housing and supplies
- Clinical uniforms and exam prep
Now, it might be challenging to see this as getting paid directly, as it typically goes directly toward your education. But when that end-of-semester balance drops to zero, it’s hard not to feel like you just got paid.
What RN scholarships and funding to look for
- Federal Pell Grants. Based on financial need and determined by your FAFSA application.
- Nursing-specific scholarships. Offered through hospitals, universities, nonprofits, and nursing associations. For example, University of Bridgeport’s awarded CT Health Horizons grant allows them to provide powerful scholarships for you.
- School-based aid. Many nursing programs offer institutional grants or awards.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance as a nursing professional, we have the programs to help you reach your destination.
Employer reimbursement for Nursing school
Already working in a healthcare setting? Or maybe you’re planning to get a foot in the door before starting your program? In either case, employer tuition reimbursement might be another option for you.
Many hospitals, long-term care facilities, and healthcare systems actively support employees who pursue education and certification in nursing. These programs are popular with certified nursing assistants, emergency medical technicians, medical assistants, and other allied health workers.
How it works
- You get hired in an entry-level healthcare position.
- Your employer helps pay for your nursing school.
- You may agree to work for them after graduation for a set time.
It’s a win-win. Make money while lowering the cost of your education. And once you finish nursing school, you may already have a job lined up.
Nurse Corps and federal loan forgiveness
If you have your heart set on serving in public health or working in underserved communities, you might qualify for the incredible Nurse Corps Scholarship Program.
This federal program helps students in nursing school by covering:
- Full tuition and fees
- Books and supplies
- A monthly stipend for living expenses
In return, you agree to work in areas that need critical care after becoming an RN. It’s one of the closest ways to get paid to go to nursing school and make a difference while doing it.
Other options include:
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): Work in a nonprofit or government role and get your student loans forgiven after 10 years.
- State-level loan forgiveness: Many states offer incentives for nurses who work in rural or underserved areas.
These programs may not hand you cash upfront, but they can save you tens of thousands of dollars in the long run.
Nursing school work-study programs and on-campus jobs
If you qualify for Federal Work-Study, you can earn money while in RN nursing school. When you apply for these programs, you’ll find yourself in roles that fit right into your schedule.
- Library assistant
- Science lab helper
- Admin support for nursing faculty
- Campus health center aide
Work-study roles and on-campus jobs are typically student-friendly. You’ll earn a paycheck while building your resume and potentially gaining experience in a healthcare setting.
Some universities even offer health-related work-study programs that give you a preview of clinical life while you’re still in school. In this case, you’ll be getting paid for gaining experience to become a nurse.
Becoming an RN: Building a support plan
Here’s the good news. You don’t have to choose just one option. Many successful nursing school students stack their financial support by combining:
- Scholarships and grants
- Employer tuition reimbursement
- Federal loan forgiveness programs
- Work-study or part-time jobs
The result? A manageable path to becoming an RN without the overwhelming burden of student debt.
RN scholarships: Ready to explore your options?
While you might not get paid to go to nursing school, don’t think of it as the end of the road. You can create a financial plan that supports you, your goals, minimizes your debt, and sets you up for success. Luckily, University of Bridgeport supports you throughout the entire process.
At University of Bridgeport, we’re here to help future nurses like you make it happen. We offer:
- A wide range of RN scholarships and nursing school scholarships
- Financial aid counseling to help you build your support plan
- Accredited RN to BSN pathways with flexible scheduling
Your education shouldn’t be barred by how much you can or can’t afford. Talk to our admissions team today to explore your options and start building your nursing future with financial confidence.