10 Cheapest ABSN Programs in 2025

If you're ready to launch your nursing career, you may be interested in earning an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN). ABSN programs are designed for people who already hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree, enabling them to fast-track their second degree and graduate at an accelerated pace.

This article explores some of the cheapest ABSN programs in the country. These 12-month accelerated nursing programs to 16-month programs offer high-quality nursing education in a rigorous format, preparing students to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) and become registered nurses (RNs).

We also review ways to keep your ABSN program costs low, from scholarship opportunities to hospital-sponsored nursing programs. Continue reading to learn more about affordable accelerated nursing programs.

How Much Does an ABSN Degree Program Cost?

The costs of an ABSN degree program vary greatly, depending on schools and regions. Total tuition for a BSN degree ranges from $24,000 to more than $80,000. ABSNs often cost more on average than traditional four-year bachelor's degrees, as coursework and simulation labs for these programs are rigorous and condensed.

State universities tend to offer more affordable accelerated BSN programs than those at private schools. State universities typically have significantly lower tuition rates for in-state students.

Ways To Make Your Accelerated BSN Program Affordable

Affordability is an important aspect to consider when choosing your degree path. The following financial aid opportunities will help keep your total tuition costs low while earning your BSN without an RN license.

Scholarships, Grants, and Financial Aid for Nursing School

Scholarships and grants are forms of financial assistance that do not need to be repaid. There are numerous scholarship and grant opportunities for students looking to become healthcare professionals.

In addition to institutional grants and scholarships (that is, school-issued financial aid), many organizations offer funding to nursing students. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) is a great resource for scholarships, like its $2,500 Hurst Review - AACN Nursing Scholarship.

Hospital-Sponsored Nursing Programs

These special programs provide financial support (like tuition reimbursement) to nursing students in exchange for a commitment to work for the hospital after they graduate.

For example, the Piedmont Hospital in Georgia has a Nursing Scholars Program that awards $2,500 per semester, up to $10,000 total, to help with tuition costs. Recipients commit to a six-month service at Piedmont for every semester they receive a scholarship.

Apprenticeships or Work-Study Programs in Nursing

Apprenticeships and work-study programs offset tuition costs in exchange for work while a student is enrolled at school. Work can be on-campus or off-campus, depending on the program. You can determine your eligibility for federal work-study programs by applying for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Military and ROTC Nursing Scholarships

The military and ROTC present various financial aid opportunities. These may come directly from the military and ROTC, like the ROTC Nursing Pathway, and from related organizations supporting service members. The Army Nurse Corps Association, which awards $3,000 to selected students, is open to those enrolled in accelerated nursing programs. Plus, many schools have reduced tuition rates for veterans, active military members, and their families.

Most Affordable ABSN Programs

All of the following ABSN programs are full-time and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Some schools present other routes to earn a bachelor's degree in nursing, offering some of the cheapest RN to BSN programs online.

1. University of North Georgia

The University of North Georgia (UNG) is based in Dahlonega, GA, and has developed a hybrid ABSN program in conjunction with the Northeast Georgia Health System. Nursing students enroll at UNG's Gainesville campus and attend classes both in-person and online. Clinical experiences take place at local healthcare facilities.

Program graduates average a 96% NCLEX pass rate on their first time taking the exam. UNG awards more than $3.6 million in scholarships to its students each academic year. Financial aid is also available through work-study programs, grants, and scholarships. UNG offers military tuition discounts and scholarships.

Estimated tuition cost: $11,460 (in-state); $42,300 (out-of-state)

Program length: 15 months

Accreditation: CCNE

2. Fayetteville State University

Located in Fayetteville, NC, Fayetteville State University (FSU) is a midsize public school with a hybrid ABSN program designed to be completed in 15 months. The accelerated program at FSU features online coursework, hands-on state-of-the-art simulation labs, and local clinical rotations.

FSU has scholarships, grants, and work-study programs to assist students financially. FSU also offers military benefits like reduced tuition to active service members and veterans. Its Veterans in the Community (VACOM) program awards stipends to eligible nursing students.

Estimated tuition cost: $11,580 (in-state); $21,600 (out-of-state)

Program length: 15 months

Accreditation: CCNE

3. Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University (NAU) offers an ABSN degree program at both its North Valley and Flagstaff campuses. The year-long curriculum consists of 60 credit hours designed to be completed over four semesters. Nursing courses emphasize leadership, critical reasoning, and serving diverse populations in public health.

Special ABSN tuition scholarships are available and granted after students receive any other federal, state, and institutional financial aid. Students who accept the ABSN scholarship agree to work at least four years as a registered nurse in Arizona.

Estimated tuition cost: $12,096 (in-state); $29,568 (out-of-state)

Program length: 12 months

Accreditation: CCNE

4. University of Florida

The University of Florida (UF) offers an accelerated BSN track at its Jacksonville, FL, campus. The 12-month program is a combination of on-campus and online learning. Nursing students gain hands-on patient care experience via clinical rotations at healthcare facilities around UF's Jacksonville campus and throughout northeast Florida.

In addition to broader financial aid opportunities, accelerated BSN students are eligible for special program scholarships. The College of Nursing Office of Student Affairs awards this accelerated BSN scholarship to eligible students during the spring semester.

Estimated tuition cost: $13,000 (in-state); $57,300 (out-of-state)

Program length: 12 months

Accreditation: CCNE

5. AOhio State University

Located in Columbus, OH, Ohio State University (OSU) has an accelerated BSN program designed to be completed in 18 months. The program curriculum is a hybrid of on-campus and online learning; clinical rotations take place at Ohio State University's Wexner Medical Center and other regional sites.

OSU's College of Nursing awards scholarships to eligible full-time ABSN students each spring semester. These special scholarships come in addition to other financial assistance available at OSU, like federal and state grants, scholarships, and work-study programs.

Estimated tuition cost: $13,244 (in-state); $40,022 (out-of-state)

Program length: 18 months

Accreditation: CCNE

6. City University of New York Hunter College

The City University of New York (CUNY) Hunter College offers a 51-credit-hour BSN program designed for adult learners looking to begin their nursing careers. The second-degree program can be completed over the course of 18 months. The nursing program focuses on evidence-based practices, behavior and mental health, pharmacology, and leadership.

Students enrolled in Hunter's School of Nursing should apply for FAFSA to determine their financial aid eligibility. Scholarships, grants, and work-study programs are available.

Estimated tuition cost: $16,000 (in-state); $42,943 (out-of-state)

Program length: 18 months

Accreditation: CCNE

7. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Located in its namesake town, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) has an ABSN program designed to be completed in 12 months over the course of three semesters and one summer session. SIUE's School of Nursing emphasizes leadership, community support, and equity in health sciences. Its ABSN program is ranked among the top 10 accelerated nursing programs in the state.

SIUE offers grants, scholarships, and work-study programs to nursing students. ABSN students may also be eligible for the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), which helps with costs like tuition, books, transportation, and childcare.

Estimated tuition cost: $21,320 (in-state); $21,320 (out-of-state)

Program length: 12 months

Accreditation: CCNE

8. King's College

King's College is a small private school in Wilkes-Barre, PA, that offers a hybrid ABSN program that can be completed in one year. The nursing coursework is delivered online and in person and features hands-on practice at the school's state-of-the-art healthcare facilities.

King's College encourages its nursing students to apply for FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal, state, and institutional financial aid. King's College also awards multiple merit-based scholarships. Students serving in the Air Force ROTC may be eligible for full tuition, textbook, and lab fees reimbursement.

Estimated tuition cost: $21,500 (in-state); $43,000 (out-of-state)

Program length: 12 months

Accreditation: CCNE

9. University of Texas at Arlington

The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) has an online ABSN program that can be completed in as few as 15 months. Nursing courses are delivered online, and UTA faculty-supervised clinical placements happen throughout the state.

UTA's College of Nursing and Health Innovation boasts one of the highest graduation and licensure rates in Texas. First-time NCLEX pass rates of UTA nursing graduates regularly exceed 90%. Financial aid is available in the forms of grants, work-study programs, and scholarships, like UTA's Blaze Forward program, which covers 100% of tuition for eligible full-time students.

Estimated tuition cost: $21,675 (in-state); $21,675 (out-of-state)

Program length: 15 months

Accreditation: CCNE

10. Cleveland State University

Cleveland State University (CSU) offers a 16-month ABSN program. All coursework is delivered online and focuses on leadership, patient care and safety, healthcare policy, and interprofessional communication. Clinical hours take place at healthcare facilities in students' home communities. Students visit CSU's Cleveland, OH, campus twice during the program to refine their skills in person at the nursing resource laboratory.

Nursing students at CSU must apply for FAFSA to determine federal aid eligibility. Grants and scholarships are available at the federal and state levels.

Estimated tuition cost: $21,960 (in-state); $21,960 (out-of-state)

Program length: 16 months

Accreditation: CCNE

FAQs About the Cheapest ABSN Programs

Here we answer some frequently asked questions about ABSN programs that cover funding opportunities, BSN requirements, and the benefits of earning an ABSN.

Will Hospitals Pay for You To Go To Nursing School?

Yes, some hospitals will pay for nursing students' tuition. The United States has a shortage of healthcare professionals, and many hospitals consider funding nursing education an investment for the future. In exchange for tuition coverage, students agree to work for the hospital for a specific period of time after graduation.

Is an Accelerated BSN Worth It?

Choosing to pursue your BSN is a highly personal choice. It is a significant commitment in time and money. However, when you enroll in an affordable online nursing degree program, you can reduce your overall education costs.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nursing is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the national economy. With roughly 194,500 nursing job openings projected each year for the next decade, there will be many opportunities to put your BSN degree to work.

What Are the Requirements for Accelerated BSN Programs?

Specific requirements vary from program to program, though most programs share the following essential requirements: a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, a grade point average (GPA) minimum, and general prerequisite courses. Examples of prerequisite courses include anatomy and physiology, chemistry, and microbiology. Some schools will also ask for personal essays and letters of recommendation.

Enroll in an Accelerated Nursing Program

Enrolling in an ABSN will fast-track your path to an exciting and rewarding nursing career. To discover which school best suits your unique needs, connect with our partner institutions at Learn.org.