Nursing Schools That Pay You to Attend: A Real Possibility

If you’re passionate about becoming a nurse but worried about how you’ll afford nursing school, you’re not alone. Nursing programs can be expensive once you add up tuition, textbooks, fees, and living costs. But here’s the good news — there are nursing schools that pay you to attend or offer substantial financial assistance through work commitments, scholarships, or employer support. Check also: Benefits of Undergraduate Scholarship Program

In this guide, we’ll walk through some of the best options available — including schools, hospitals, and companies — that help students cover the cost of nursing education. Whether you’re just starting to explore nursing or already deep into planning, this info could be a game-changer. Check also: Are There Scholarships for Law School?

What Does It Mean to Get Paid to Attend Nursing School?

Before we jump into the list, let’s clear up what it means to “get paid” to attend nursing school. In most cases, this doesn’t mean you’ll get a paycheck just for enrolling. Instead, it can include:

• Tuition coverage or reimbursement
• Scholarships and grants
• Stipends or work-study pay
• Loan forgiveness after working in certain healthcare settings

These programs are often offered by hospitals, schools, or even big-name companies looking to grow their workforce in healthcare.

Check also: Maximizing Your Chances of Winning Local Scholarships

Why Nursing Schools and Employers Offer Financial Support

There’s a nationwide nursing shortage, and healthcare organizations are eager to attract and keep qualified professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 190,000 job openings for registered nurses are projected each year, on average, through 2032. That’s why many hospitals, universities, and employers are stepping up to help students financially.

By covering part (or all) of your nursing education, they get a skilled nurse in return — and you get to avoid student debt. It’s a win-win.

Check also: Top Texas Scholarships for College Students

Hospitals That Help Pay for Nursing School

Several hospitals offer tuition assistance or full sponsorships for students who agree to work for them after graduation. Here are some well-known ones:

1. Mayo Clinic

The Mayo Clinic runs a Nurse Residency Program that supports new grads as they transition into clinical work. They also offer tuition assistance to students who commit to working for Mayo after completing their degree.

2. Cleveland Clinic

The Cleveland Clinic provides tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing nursing degrees — and sometimes even for new hires. If you’re open to working part-time while you study, this is a great way to get support.

3. Kaiser Permanente

Kaiser Permanente helps current employees fund healthcare-related education, including nursing. They offer tuition assistance in exchange for a post-graduation work agreement.

Companies That Pay for Nursing Degrees

It’s not just hospitals — large companies are also investing in employee education, including nursing programs. You don’t necessarily need to be in a medical job to take advantage of these benefits.

1. UPS – Earn & Learn Program

The UPS Earn & Learn program offers up to $5,250 per year in tuition assistance for part-time workers. You can use this toward nursing school or any accredited program.

2. Amazon – Career Choice

Through the Amazon Career Choice, eligible employees can get up to 100% of tuition covered for in-demand fields — and nursing is one of them. The program partners with select schools across the U.S.

3. Starbucks – College Achievement Plan

Starbucks covers full tuition for employees studying online through Arizona State University. Nursing majors can benefit too, especially those completing prerequisite courses or pursuing a BSN online.

Check also: Top Out of State Scholarships to Consider

Real Nursing Schools That Offer to Pay Students

Some nursing schools go beyond scholarships — they provide actual stipends or guaranteed tuition coverage through federal or state programs.

1. University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing

UPenn offers work-study positions and scholarships specifically for nursing students. You can learn more at https://www.nursing.upenn.edu/.

2. Johns Hopkins School of Nursing

Johns Hopkins provides various forms of aid including assistantships, merit scholarships, and need-based grants. Some students receive funding in return for research or teaching work.

3. Duke University School of Nursing

Duke supports students through programs like the Nurse Anesthesia Traineeship, which helps cover costs in exchange for a future work commitment. They also offer general scholarships and need-based aid.

How to Pay for Nursing School with No Money Upfront

Even if you’re starting with zero savings, don’t worry. Here are practical ways to start nursing school without financial strain:

Check also: How Much of a Stipend Do Law Schools Give?

✅ Apply for FAFSA

Start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This opens the door to federal grants, subsidized loans, and work-study programs.

✅ Look for Scholarships

Websites like NursingScholarship.us and Fastweb list nursing-specific scholarships. Many are based on need, merit, or your commitment to work in underserved areas.

✅ Explore State & Federal Loan Forgiveness

Programs like the NURSE Corps Loan Repayment Program help nurses pay off their student loans if they work in high-need areas after graduation.

✅ Check Employer Benefits

Already working? Ask HR if your company offers tuition reimbursement or training benefits — even small companies sometimes do.

Tips for Getting Nursing School Paid For

If your goal is to graduate debt-free, here’s how to boost your chances:

• Do your homework: Research schools and employers that offer tuition help. Make a shortlist and look into their requirements.
• Start early: Scholarship and aid deadlines sneak up fast. Get your materials together as early as possible.
• Be flexible: Some programs require you to work in rural hospitals or specific specialties after graduation. If that works for you, it can be a great deal.
• Talk to real nurses: Ask nurses how they paid for school — you’d be surprised how many found funding through lesser-known programs.

Check also: Top Scholarships for Parents to Consider

Final Thoughts

The idea that nursing schools will pay you to attend might sound too good to be true — but it’s real. Between hospital-sponsored programs, company benefits, scholarships, and loan forgiveness, there are plenty of ways to cut or even eliminate the cost of becoming a nurse.

If you’re serious about nursing, don’t let money stop you. Explore your options, apply early, and be open to work commitments that could launch your career debt-free.

Your future patients will thank you — and so will your wallet.