What expenses should I expect as a nursing student?
Tuition and fees are the biggest cost, but nursing students also pay for books, uniforms and equipment, background checks and drug screens, immunizations, clinical travel, and after graduation the NCLEX and state licensing fees.
During school
Textbooks and software, scrubs and shoes, a stethoscope and other supplies, health insurance and immunization records, a background check and drug test, liability insurance at some schools, and travel and parking for clinical placements. Ask the school for its itemized estimate.
To become licensed
The NCLEX registration fee is $200. States add their own application fee and fingerprinting: Texas lists $75 for the application, for example, plus fingerprints. See your state’s steps.
Lowering the cost
Compare program types, since a community college associate degree costs a different amount than a university degree, then see financial aid and scholarships and how to choose a nursing school.
Pay and projections: Bureau of Labor Statistics. NCLEX figures: NCSBN. Enrollment: AACN. Sources and years are ondata sources.