Pursuing a nursing degree in the United States offers students a blend of high-quality education, diverse clinical experiences, and global recognition.
However, the cost of education can be a significant barrier. Fortunately, several U.S. institutions provide affordable nursing programs without compromising on quality.
This article highlights 15 of the most cost-effective nursing schools for the 2025/2026 academic year, detailing their tuition fees, admission requirements, and providing direct links for application.
Summary Table: 15 Cheapest Nursing Schools in the USA
| University | Average Tuition Fee (Per Year) | Official Website |
| University of Nevada – Las Vegas | $10,196 | www.unlv.edu/nursing |
| Stony Brook University | $7,070 | https://graduateadmissions.stonybrook.edu/apply/ |
| University of Michigan–Flint | $7,864 | www.umflint.edu/nursing |
| Indiana State University | $9,978 | www.indstate.edu/health/department/son |
| Lamar University | $10,980 | www.lamar.edu/nursing |
| University of Massachusetts–Amherst | $16,439 | www.umass.edu/nursing |
| East Carolina University | $7,438 | nursing.ecu.edu |
| Clarkson College | $8,040 | www.clarksoncollege.edu |
| Northwestern Michigan College | $12,684 | www.nmc.edu/nursing |
| University of West Georgia | $8,100 | www.westga.edu/academics/nursing |
| Baker University | $18,500 | www.bakeru.edu/nursing |
| University of Miami | $42,000 | bsn.sonhs.miami.edu |
| Grand Canyon University | $16,500 | www.gcu.edu/college-of-nursing-and-health-care-professions |
| Jacksonville State University | $10,590 | www.jsu.edu/nursin |
Benefits of Studying Nursing in the USA
Pursuing a nursing degree in the United States offers numerous advantages:
- High-Quality Education: U.S. nursing programs are renowned for their rigorous curricula and state-of-the-art facilities.
- Global Recognition: A U.S. nursing degree is respected worldwide, enhancing employment prospects.
- Diverse Clinical Experiences: Students gain hands-on experience in various healthcare settings, preparing them for diverse roles.
- Research Opportunities: Access to cutting-edge research and innovations in healthcare.
- Licensure Preparation: Programs are designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam, a prerequisite for practising as a registered nurse in the U.S.
15 Cheapest Nursing Schools in the USA for 2025/2026
University of Nevada – Las Vegas (UNLV)
Located in Las Vegas, Nevada, UNLV’s School of Nursing offers comprehensive programs emphasising evidence-based practice and research.
- Average Tuition Fee: $10,196 per year for Nevada residents.
- Admission Requirements:
- Minimum GPA of 2.7.
- SAT score between 1030–1240 or ACT score around 22.
- Personal essay.
- Official transcripts.
- Letters of recommendation.
- Application fee: $60 ($95 for international students).
- Website: www.unlv.edu/nursing
Stony Brook University
Situated in New York, Stony Brook’s School of Nursing is recognised for its rigorous programs and research opportunities.
- Average Tuition Fee: $7,070 per year for New York residents.
- Admission Requirements:
- Minimum GPA of 2.8.
- SAT or ACT scores.
- Personal statement.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Official transcripts.
- Website: https://graduateadmissions.stonybrook.edu/apply/
University of Michigan–Flint
UM-Flint provides a range of nursing programs, including traditional BSN, RN to BSN, and accelerated BSN options.
- Average Tuition Fee: $7,864 per year.
- Admission Requirements:
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Completion of prerequisite courses.
- Personal essay.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Official transcripts.
- Website: www.umflint.edu/nursing
Indiana State University
ISU’s School of Nursing offers traditional and accelerated BSN programs, focusing on preparing students for diverse healthcare settings.
- Average Tuition Fee: $9,978 per year for Indiana residents.
- Admission Requirements:
- Minimum GPA of 2.5.
- SAT or ACT scores.
- Personal statement.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Official transcripts.
- Website: www.indstate.edu/health/department/son
University of Massachusetts–Amherst
Located in Amherst, Massachusetts, UMass Amherst’s Elaine Marieb College of Nursing offers a comprehensive BSN program that emphasises research and clinical practice.
- Average Tuition Fee: $18,487 per year for Massachusetts residents.
- Admission Requirements:
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Completion of prerequisite courses.
- Personal essay.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Official transcripts.
- Website: www.umass.edu/nursing
East Carolina University
East Carolina University, located in Greenville, North Carolina, offers a BSN program known for its affordability and quality education.
- Average Tuition Fee: $7,438 per year for North Carolina residents.
- Admission Requirements:
- Minimum GPA of 2.5.
- Completion of prerequisite courses.
- Personal statement.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Official transcripts.
- Website: nursing.ecu.edu
Clarkson College
Located in Omaha, Nebraska, Clarkson College offers a BSN program with a strong emphasis on clinical experience and community service.
- Average Tuition Fee: $8,202 per semester for full-time students (12 credit hours).
- Admission Requirements:
- Minimum GPA of 2.75.
- ACT composite score of 20 or SAT score of 1030.
- Personal essay.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Official transcripts.
- Website: www.clarksoncollege.edu
Northwestern Michigan College
Based in Traverse City, Michigan, Northwestern Michigan College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.
Average Tuition Fee: $12,684 for nursing courses (84 contact hours) for in-state students.
- Admission Requirements:
- Minimum GPA of 2.5.
- Completion of prerequisite courses.
- Personal statement.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Official transcripts.
- Website: www.nmc.edu/nursing
University of West Georgia
Located in Carrollton, Georgia, the University of West Georgia offers a BSN program that combines classroom instruction with clinical practice
- Average Tuition Fee: $8,100 per semester for 12 credit hours.
- Admission Requirements:
- Minimum GPA of 2.75.
- Completion of prerequisite courses.
- Personal essay.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Official transcripts.
- Website: www.westga.edu/academics/nursing
Delta State University
Situated in Cleveland, Mississippi, Delta State University’s Robert E. Smith School of Nursing offers a BSN program known for its affordability and quality education.
- Average Tuition Fee: $4,217.50 per semester for full-time undergraduate students.
- Admission Requirements:
- Minimum GPA of 2.5.
- Completion of prerequisite courses.
- Personal statement.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Official transcripts.
- Website: www.deltastate.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/bsn
Baker University
Located in Baldwin City, Kansas, Baker University’s School of Nursing offers a BSN program that emphasizes hands-on clinical experience.
Average Tuition Fee: $18,500 per year for full-time students.
- Admission Requirements:
- Minimum GPA of 2.75.
- Completion of prerequisite courses.
- Personal essay.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Official transcripts.
- Website: www.bakeru.edu/nursing
University of Miami
Based in Coral Gables, Florida, the University of Miami’s School of Nursing and Health Studies offers a BSN program with a strong emphasis on research and clinical practice.
- Average Tuition Fee: $14,240 per semester for the Accelerated BSN program.
- Admission Requirements:
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Completion of prerequisite courses.
- Personal statement.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Official transcripts.
- Website: bsn.sonhs.miami.edu
Grand Canyon University
Located in Phoenix, Arizona, Grand Canyon University offers an Accelerated BSN program designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field.
Average Tuition Fee: $850 per credit hour, totaling approximately $53,550 for the 63-credit program.
- Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Completion of prerequisite courses.
- Personal statement.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Official transcripts.
- Website: www.gcu.edu/college-of-nursing-and-health-care-professions
Jacksonville State University
Located in Jacksonville, Alabama, Jacksonville State University’s School of Nursing offers a BSN program that combines theoretical instruction with practical experience.
Average Tuition Fee: $10,590 per year for undergraduate students.
- Admission Requirements:
- Minimum GPA of 2.5.
- Completion of prerequisite courses.
- Personal essay.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Official transcripts.
- Website: www.jsu.edu/nursing
FAQs
How much does nursing school cost in the USA?
The cost of nursing school in the USA varies widely depending on the institution and program. For example, tuition fees for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) can range from $40,000 to over $100,000 per year at private institutions and large universities.
Are there tuition-free nursing schools in the USA?
Yes, some institutions offer tuition-free nursing programs or significant financial aid. For instance, Berea College provides all students with full-tuition scholarships, covering the remaining tuition fees after deducting any grants and scholarships the student may have received.
Do affordable nursing schools offer quality education?
Absolutely. Many affordable nursing schools maintain high educational standards and are accredited by recognised bodies. For example, institutions like the University of Massachusetts–Amherst and East Carolina University offer reputable nursing programs at lower tuition costs.
Can international students apply to these affordable nursing schools?
Yes, many of these institutions accept international students. However, admission requirements and tuition fees may differ for international applicants. It’s essential to check each university’s official website for specific details.
What are the typical admission requirements for these nursing programs?
While requirements vary by institution, common prerequisites include:
- A minimum GPA (often around 2.5 to 3.0)
- Completion of prerequisite courses
- Personal statement or essay
- Letters of recommendation
- Official transcripts
- Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT)]
Are there online, affordable nursing programs available?
Yes, several institutions offer affordable online nursing programs. For example, CUNY Lehman College offers an online Bachelor of Science in Nursing program with in-state tuition averaging $6,930.
How can I find scholarships for nursing programs?
Many organisations and institutions offer scholarships for nursing students. It’s advisable to check the financial aid sections of university websites and explore external scholarship databases.
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