3 Ways to Get Your Nursing Degree Paid for in Minnesota

Career Guidance
Group of smiling nursing students in blue scrubs standing outdoors with books and backpacks, ready to begin clinical training.

Thinking about becoming a nurse in Minnesota? Nursing is one of the most rewarding careers you can pursue—but the cost of education can be overwhelming. The good news is, there are programs that can help you pay for nursing school, reduce your debt, or even cover tuition entirely. And your best option is to find an employer who can help financially support and guide you along the way.

If you’re exploring nursing jobs in Minnesota, especially in long-term care and aging services, here are three ways to get your nursing degree paid for. 

1. Employer Scholarships (DHS Nursing Facility Scholarship Program)

What it is: Many nursing home employers in Minnesota offer in-house scholarships to employees through the DHS Nursing Facility Employee Scholarship Program. If you work in a nursing home or long-term care facility, your employer may help cover the cost of your nursing degree.

What it covers:

  • Tuition, books, and fees.
  • CNA training and testing costs.
  • Sometimes transportation, child care, or other education-related expenses.

How it helps: You can start working in senior care now—as a CNA, dietary aide, or other entry-level role—and have your employer help pay for nursing school while you gain hands-on experience.

Find employers with scholarship programs near you.

2. Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Scholarship & Loan Forgiveness Program

What it is: The HCBS Employee Scholarship and Loan Forgiveness Program helps workers in assisted living, group homes, and home care settings pay for nursing school or repay student loans.

What it covers:

  • Scholarship funds for tuition and fees while in school for employees of HCBS settings.
  • Loan forgiveness for HCBS employees already carrying student debt.

Why it’s great for job seekers: If you’re interested in home care or assisted living jobs in Minnesota, this program helps you advance your career while serving your community.

3. Minnesota Long-Term Care Nurse Loan Forgiveness Program

What it is: Minnesota’s Long-Term Care Nurse Loan Forgiveness Program helps registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) reduce student loan debt if they work in long-term care.

What it offers:

  • Up to $6,000 per year in loan repayment.
  • Eligible for up to four years—a total of $24,000.

How it Helps: This is one of the most generous loan repayment programs in the state. If you commit to working in long-term care nursing in Minnesota, you can graduate with far less debt while building a stable, high-demand career.

Start Your Education and Career

Paying for nursing school in Minnesota doesn’t have to stop you from pursuing your career dreams. By combining employer scholarships, HCBS supports, and state loan forgiveness you can cut your education costs dramatically—or even graduate debt-free.

If you’re ready to start your nursing career, explore nursing program openings or find employers near you. These roles not only provide immediate employment but also open the door to financial help for your nursing education.