How Much Does an LPN Program Cost?
Hannah Pierce, BSN
August 20, 2025
Tuition Fee for an LPN Training
The cost of an LPN program can vary widely depending on the school and location. Some community colleges may offer tuition as low as $4,000, while private institutions can charge up to $30,000 or more. On average, students can expect to pay between $7,000 and $10,000 for tuition alone. In addition to the base tuition, extra expenses such as books, supplies, transportation, and housing may add significantly to the overall cost. While the investment can feel overwhelming, many schools provide financial aid, scholarships, or payment plans to help students manage tuition and reduce the financial burden.
Cost of Hybrid and Refresher Courses
Hybrid programs give students the flexibility of taking certain courses online while completing clinical work and lab training in person. These often cost between $8,000 and $15,000, depending on residency status and credit rates. Refresher courses, designed for LPNs returning to practice after time away, are less expensive but still require both online coursework and hands-on clinical training. These typically range from $1,000 to $1,500. Both hybrid and refresher options provide valuable pathways for students with unique schedules or those seeking to re-enter the profession without committing to a full-length program.
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $7,000 – $10,000 |
| Hybrid / Refresher Courses | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Textbooks & Supplies | $1,000 – $1,500 |
| Lost Wages (time away from work) | ~$20,000 |
| Personal Costs (stress, time, etc.) | ~$5,000 |
Other Costs Associated with LPN School and How to Save Money?
Beyond tuition, students face several additional expenses during LPN training. Required textbooks can cost $1,000 or more, uniforms and nursing supplies like stethoscopes add to the budget, and licensure exams such as the NCLEX-PN require registration fees. Schools may also charge for technology, labs, and other campus resources. Fortunately, students can save by renting or buying used textbooks, purchasing supplies online at discounted rates, or applying for state and federal grants. Careful planning and research into low-cost program options can help keep overall expenses manageable.
Lost Wages for Attending LPN School
For many students, the financial challenge of LPN training isn’t just tuition but also the income lost by stepping away from full-time work. Since most programs require demanding class and clinical schedules, it is often unrealistic to maintain a standard job. Some students balance part-time work to offset costs, but this usually results in reduced earnings. The sacrifice can be stressful, yet it is important to see it as a short-term trade-off. Upon completing the program and passing the NCLEX-PN, graduates typically secure stable employment with higher earning potential, making the temporary financial strain worthwhile.
Personal Costs of Pursuing the LPN Course
The commitment to nursing school goes beyond money. LPN students often face fatigue from long hours of classes, study sessions, and clinical rotations, leaving little time for rest, family, or social life. This personal toll can lead to stress and burnout if not managed carefully. Maintaining balance is key, students are encouraged to prioritize sleep, take breaks, and carve out time for self-care. While the personal sacrifices can feel demanding, they prepare future nurses for the realities of a fast-paced healthcare environment, ultimately building resilience that serves them well in their careers.
- Time commitment
- Stress & mental health strain
- Reduced leisure/family time
- Fatigue
- Childcare costs
- Transportation expenses
- Opportunity cost of work
- Lifestyle adjustments