Denver College of Nursing offers various financial aid options to help students manage the cost of their nursing education. Financial aid includes federal and state programs, loans, and other funding opportunities that make nursing education more affordable for eligible students.

1. Federal Financial Aid Programs:

DCN participates in several federal financial aid programs that provide support to students based on their financial need and eligibility:

• Pell Grant:

  • A federal grant that does not need to be repaid. It is typically awarded to undergraduate students with significant financial need.

• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG):

  • This is additional grant funding for students with the greatest financial need, available in limited amounts.

• Federal Work-Study Program:

  • Allows eligible students to earn money through part-time work while they are enrolled. This helps cover educational expenses while also providing valuable work experience.

• Federal Direct Stafford Loans:

  • Subsidized Loans: These loans are based on financial need, and the government pays the interest while the student is in school.
  • Unsubsidized Loans: These loans are available regardless of financial need, but the student is responsible for paying all interest.

• Federal PLUS Loans:

  • Available to parents of dependent undergraduate students or to graduate students. These loans require a credit check and have higher borrowing limits than Stafford loans.

2. State Financial Aid:

• Colorado State Grants:
  • Students who are residents of Colorado may be eligible for state-funded financial aid, which can help cover part of their tuition costs. These grants are awarded based on financial need.

3. Veterans Benefits:

• VA Educational Benefits:
  • Denver College of Nursing is approved for participation in various U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) funding programs. These programs include the GI Bill® and the Yellow Ribbon Program.
  • Eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and their dependents can access educational benefits through these programs to help cover tuition and fees.

4. Institutional Financing Options:

• In-House Payment Plans:
  • DCN offers interest-free payment plans that allow students to make monthly tuition payments. This in-house financing option is designed to help students manage their tuition without taking on additional loan debt.

5. External Scholarships:

• Third-Party Scholarships:
  • While DCN does not provide institution-specific scholarships, students are encouraged to apply for external scholarships. Many organizations offer scholarships specifically for nursing students, including professional nursing associations, healthcare providers, and community organizations.
  • Examples of scholarships include:
    • AfterCollege-AACN Scholarship Fund: Quarterly awards for students pursuing BSN, MSN, or doctoral degrees in nursing.
    • Tylenol Future Care Scholarship: Provides funding for students in healthcare-related programs, including nursing.
    • Nurse Corps Scholarship Program: Covers tuition, fees, and other costs in exchange for a service commitment at an eligible healthcare facility facing a shortage of nurses.

6. Employer Tuition Assistance:

• Employer Reimbursement Programs:
  • Many healthcare facilities offer tuition reimbursement programs for employees who are furthering their nursing education. Working nurses are encouraged to check with their employer's HR department to explore available tuition reimbursement options.

7. Application Process for Financial Aid:

• FAFSA:

  • To apply for federal and state financial aid, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA application helps determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.
  • The school code for Denver College of Nursing is required when submitting the FAFSA to ensure that the application information is sent to DCN.

• Contact Financial Aid Office:

  • Students are encouraged to contact DCN’s Financial Aid Office for personalized guidance on available financial aid options, application requirements, and deadlines. The financial aid team assists students in navigating their options and understanding the financial aid process.

Important Considerations:

• Eligibility: Financial aid eligibility depends on a variety of factors, including financial need, academic performance, and enrollment status (full-time or part-time).
• Loan Repayment: Federal loans must be repaid, with repayment beginning six months after graduation or if the student drops below half-time enrollment.
• Deadlines: Financial aid applications and required documents must be submitted by specified deadlines to ensure timely processing and eligibility for maximum aid.

Useful Resources:

• FAFSA Website: FAFSA Application
• DCN Financial Aid Page: Visit the Denver College of Nursing Financial Aid page for detailed information on the financial aid options available.

Note: Financial aid availability, programs, and eligibility criteria are subject to change. Always consult DCN's official resources or contact the Financial Aid Office for the most current information.