Where to Look for Government Nursing Grants

Nursing is one profession that is constantly in need of new individuals. There are rarely enough people to fill the amount of jobs available in the field. For this reason, there are numerous government nursing grants available. The trick is in knowing where to look for government nursing grants.

What are Government Nursing Grants?

When it comes to paying for an education, the costs can be overwhelming. A grant is a form of money given to a student that does not have to be returned. Nursing grants are available through several federal, state, and local government agencies. There are many nursing grants available because of the severe shortage of qualified nurses. The government has released numerous grants for current nursing students and those interested in nursing in hopes to increase the number of people working in the field.

HRSA

The United States Department of Health and Human Services, under the division for Health Resources and Services Administration offers several government nursing grants that are extremely valuable. These nursing grants are available for students entering the field of nursing specifically. The HRSA offers a great place to start your search for federal grants for nursing. The website offers information about the grants that are currently available for individuals interested in the field of nursing.

State Funded Grants

Currently, the trend in most states is to repair nursing staffs at hospitals around the state. This effort has led to an increase in state funded nursing grants made available for students interested in the field. The number of grants available for nursing students will vary from state to state. Your state's website will offer information about free grants that are currently offered. Reports have shown that 38 states have actively established state grants and student loans aimed directly at supporting nursing programs.

Financial Aid

Another option that needs to be explored in order to find government grants for nursing is through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA. Filling out the FAFSA at the beginning of every school year allows a student to learn what type of assistance for which they are eligible. The federal government offers a Pell Grant for students that meet certain academic and financial criteria. In addition, there are student loans available to help pay for the costs of nursing school as well.

Nursing Education Loan Repayment

Another way that students can get financial assistance for their nursing education is through the government sponsored nursing education loan repayment program. This program offers nurses that have completed their education a way to pay back their loans through working at a facility that is in high need of quality nurses. In order to qualify for this program an individual must be financially in need and commit to two years at the high need facility. For working two years in this facility, 60% of the student's loans will be repaid. Individuals that stay on for three additional years will have 85% of their loans repaid.

With the current number of jobs available in the nursing industry, this is an excellent field to consider when choosing a career. In addition, there are many government nursing grants available for those who qualify.