The cheapest ways to become an RN

CHEAPEST ADN

1. Santa Monica College (CA)

• About $3K–$4K for the whole 2-year programThe college's own estimate
• 100% NCLEX pass rate (2024–25)Fully accredited
• The catchPoints-based admission. Prerequisites and an entrance exam come first

TUITION-FREE ROUTES

2. Free school is real

• California: College Promise GrantWaives community college fees for residents who file the FAFSA or Dream Act application
• New York: SUNY ReconnectFree associate degree, nursing included, for New Yorkers 25–55
• Texas: UTHealth HoustonFree BSN tuition and fees under $100K income, with no prior bachelor's

CHEAPEST BSN

3. Western Carolina University (NC)

• $500 a semester in tuitionAbout $2.4K a semester with required fees if you already have health insurance
• 99% NCLEX pass rate (2025)NC Promise price for NC residents

ANOTHER CHEAP ADN

4. Alvin Community College (TX)

• About $8K for the nursing coursesBooks and supplies included, in-district
• 96.9% NCLEX pass rate (2024)Other degree courses cost extra

EARN WHILE YOU LEARN

5. Let someone else pay

• Many hospitals pay for nursing school if you work there first
• Ask about tuition reimbursement before you take any healthcare job
• Working as a CNA or tech? Ask HR what they cover

KNOW THIS FIRST

6. Cheap doesn't mean easy

• Cheap programs are often the hardest to get into
• Prerequisites, books, uniforms and exam fees cost extra
• Low prices are usually for in-state or in-district students
• Check the program's NCLEX pass rate and accreditation

Costs and pass rates: each school's or program's own site, checked Oct 2, 2026.