Is There Such a Thing as Free LPN Classes?
If it is your dream to become an LPN but you lack the finances for your training, do not fret! There are many fantastic ways for you to fund your education, and depending on the method you choose to use, you may not have to pay the money back. Listed below, you will find some of the best ways to obtain the money you need for your LPN classes and clinicals.
Government Pell Grants
One of the most widely used educational funding programs today is the Federal Pell Grant program. These are government-based funds provided to students who are financially in need of assistance with their tuition. Currently, the Pell Grant program provides just over $5,000 in tuition assistance to each qualified student depending on their academic status and financial need. To apply for these funds, you will need to fill out an application online and provide the following information.
- Full Name and Social Security Number
- Proof of Your or Your Parent's Income
- Your School and Program of Choice
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship
Federal Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans
Another great way to fund your LPN classes is to apply for a federal subsidized or unsubsidized loan. These programs are perfect for persons who, for one reason or another, do not qualify for the Pell Grant program. While you will need to pay these funds back, you do not need to begin your payments for about six months after you graduate.
The amount of money you can receive through a federal subsidized or unsubsidized loan varies depending on various factors such as your enrollment status and income. You can apply for a federal loan as well as a Pell Grant by filling out an online application known as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
Nursing Scholarships
Scholarships may be a bit harder to obtain, but it is highly possible, especially if you have a good academic record. There are always many nursing scholarships offered by various organizations each year, and one only needs to Google nursing scholarships to find current offerings. Eligibility criteria varies significantly for scholarships depending on the organization that is offering the funds.
For example, while some organizations may provide funds randomly, others may award funds based on academic progress or essay competitions. The amount of money you can obtain through a scholarship can vary as well, with some organizations offering as little as $500 toward your education while others may pay for all of your training and supplies.
Tuition Reimbursement Programs
Since LPNs are in such high demand today, many employers offer what are known as Tuition Reimbursement programs. These programs are for certified nursing assistants who would like to go on and become licensed practical nurses. Although you will initially need to pay for your LPN classes, your employer will reimburse you after you graduate.
Some employers may even reimburse some of your tuition before you graduate so long as you can prove that you have maintained excellent academic progress. Of course, to qualify for this program, you will need to continue to work for your current employer as an LPN after graduation for a certain period of time, which may differ from one employer to another.
