Paying for school can feel like the hardest part of switching careers. The good news is there are realistic ways to fund your education without putting your goals on hold or taking on overwhelming debt. At Pima Medical Institute, students can explore several financial aid options* such as federal Pell Grants, scholarships and flexible loan programs that help make tuition more manageable.
With the right support, a future in healthcare is within reach.
Why Affordability Matters When Choosing a Medical Assistant Program
Tuition is often the biggest concern for career changers, but strategic planning can make it manageable.
Pima Medical Institute’s Medical Assistant certificate program helps students enter the workforce quickly, which reduces the long-term financial burden of training. By focusing on value rather than cost, students can choose a program that pays off through employability and earning potential.
At Pima Medical’s El Paso campus, students receive hands-on training and guidance from experienced instructors who understand how to help adult learners balance education and personal responsibilities.
That supportive environment makes it easier to stay on track and move confidently toward a new healthcare career.
What Are Your Funding Options
Before starting your Medical Assistant training, it helps to understand the financial aid programs that can make tuition more manageable. At Pima Medical, eligible students may qualify for a combination of grants, scholarships and federal student loans.*
Pima Medical’s dedicated financial aid team will help prospective students look at all potential options and help them choose what is best for them.
Grants and Scholarships
Grants and scholarships can come from federal sources or directly from Pima Medical Institute. The federal Pell Grant is one of the most common forms of need-based aid. It does not require repayment and can cover a significant portion of tuition for qualifying students.
Pima Medical also offers institutional scholarships that may vary by program and campus. These awards recognize academic achievement, leadership or other qualifying factors. Because grants and scholarships do not need to be repaid, they are often the best starting point when planning how to pay for school.
Federal Student Loans
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) determines eligibility for federal grants, loans and some scholarships. Completing the FAFSA is the first step to accessing federal student loans, which can be:
- Subsidized, when the government pays interest while you are in school. OR
- Unsubsidized, when you are responsible for interest from the start.
Federal loans must be repaid but offer flexible repayment plans that adjust to your financial situation after graduation. Students can also explore other federal and state aid programs to further reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Combining Aid Sources
Many students use a mix of grants, scholarships and loans to pay for school. Starting with aid that does not require repayment allows you to minimize future debt. Then, federal loans can fill remaining tuition or living expense gaps. Pima Medical’s Financial Aid Department can help you create a personalized funding plan based on your eligibility and goals.
Smart Strategies To Make School More Affordable
Submitting your financial aid application early can help you qualify for the widest range of support. Many students also explore part-time or work-study opportunities that fit around class schedules. Using budgeting tools to manage tuition, transportation and living expenses can make a big difference throughout your program.
The Financial Aid Department at Pima Medical is available to provide ongoing guidance and help you make smart, confident choices about financing your education.
Make Your Career Change Happen With Pima Medical
Financial barriers should not stop you from pursuing a healthcare career you care about. The El Paso campus team can help you explore financial aid options, understand program costs and discuss your next steps toward becoming a Medical Assistant. Every career change starts with one decision to move forward — and yours can start today.
Connect with the Pima Medical Institute’s team to talk about your goals and learn how to start the admissions process.
*Financial aid available to those who qualify.
