San Antonio has limited ABSN options directly in the city, but several strong programs are available within about 100 miles. This expanded view includes 6 ABSN programs with estimated tuition ranging from about $21,809 to roughly $81,000 and timelines from 12 to 16 months.
The region now offers a mix of low-cost public programs, hybrid private options, and flexible online-based pathways. The key takeaway: San Antonio-area students can choose between affordable local options or faster and more flexible regional programs depending on priorities.
Quick Comparison Table
| School | Estimated Tuition | Duration | Format | GPA Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$22K | 15 months | In-person coursework, labs, and San Antonio-area clinicals | 3.0 GPA | |
$24K | 12 months | Structured online with assigned San Antonio-area clinical site option | 2.5 GPA | |
$56K | 15 months | Hybrid / online coursework with in-person labs and clinicals | 3.0 GPA | |
$72K | 16 months | Hybrid | 3.0 GPA | |
$74K | 16 months | Hybrid | 3.0 GPA | |
$79K | 16 months | In-person / campus-based ABSN with San Antonio-area clinicals | 3.0 GPA |
TLDR Summary
- Choose UT Health San Antonio if you want the lowest-cost option located directly in San Antonio
- Choose Texas Tech University if you want the fastest and most flexible low-cost program
- Choose University of the Incarnate Word if you want a San Antonio-based private program with strong clinical immersion
- Choose Texas Lutheran University if you want heavy hands-on training near San Antonio
Top Program Comparison
Best local value: UT Health San Antonio
This is the most affordable program in the region and is based directly in San Antonio. It offers a traditional in-person format with strong local clinical placements.
Fastest option: Texas Tech University
Texas Tech delivers a 12-month timeline with low tuition and online coursework paired with local clinical placements. It stands out for speed and flexibility.
Best San Antonio private option: University of the Incarnate Word
UIW offers a hybrid format with extensive clinical hours and strong outcomes. It is one of the most established private ABSN options in San Antonio.
Most hands-on nearby option: Texas Lutheran University
Located in New Braunfels, this program emphasizes hands-on clinical training and direct patient care experience.
Balanced hybrid option: Concordia University Texas
Concordia provides a structured hybrid model with multiple start dates and strong academic support.
Mid-range private option: Fairfield University
Fairfield offers a hybrid program with a moderate timeline and strong academic reputation, though it does not lead on cost or speed.
Cost Comparison
The San Antonio-area cost range runs from about $21,809 to $81,000, creating a clear gap between public and private programs.
Lowest-cost programs:
- UT Health San Antonio — ~$21,809
- Texas Tech University — ~$23,045
- Fairfield University — ~$55,380
Highest-cost programs:
- Texas Lutheran University — up to ~$81,000
- University of the Incarnate Word — ~$73,800
- Concordia University Texas — ~$71,200
Public programs provide a major cost advantage. Private programs justify pricing through structure, clinical hours, and support services.
Program Length & Timeline
- Shortest program: Texas Tech — 12 months
- Typical timeframe: 15–16 months
- Longest programs: Concordia, UIW, and TLU — 16 months
Faster programs require a heavier workload and tighter schedule. Longer programs provide more structure and a slightly more manageable pace.
Program Format
The region offers three main formats:
Online with local clinicals
- Texas Tech University
Hybrid (online + labs/clinicals)
- UIW
- Concordia
- Fairfield
In-person
- UT Health San Antonio
- Texas Lutheran University
All programs follow a structured cohort model. None are self-paced.
Admission Requirements
- GPA range: 2.5 to 3.0
- Most accessible: Texas Tech (2.5 GPA)
- Typical requirement: 3.0 for most programs
Entrance exams:
- TEAS: Concordia, TLU
- HESI: UIW
- Not always required: Texas Tech
All programs require science-heavy prerequisites and a prior bachelor’s degree.
Who This Location Is Best For
San Antonio works best for students who want affordable in-city options or flexible regional programs within driving distance. It fits budget-focused applicants, students seeking a fast ABSN timeline, and those deciding between online, hybrid, and in-person formats.