Dental Hygienist School Cost

• Earning an associate degree through a community college is accomplished through one year of classroom study and one year of clinical. The two-year program averages $4,600 for in-state students according to the American Association of Community Colleges. Tuition for students from out of the area runs $10,000 -$21,600 for two years.
• A bachelor's degree in dental hygiene requires two years of undergraduate studies followed by two years of clinical work. Cost for the four-year program at a public college or university averaged $20,000 -$27,200 during 2006-2007 for in-state residents. Out-of-state students paid around $36,000 -$99,200. Four years of tuition at private college averaged $80,000.

• The cost for books and supplies varies depending on which degree program is selected. Bachelor students will spend an average of $1,200 -$1,500 per year on the first two years of undergraduate work. The first year of clinical work will require about $700 in books and another $275 the second year.
• Instruments, uniforms and equipment for the clinical portion of the education runs about $1,400 the first year and $1,700 the second.
• Graduation from either program equals eligibility to sit for the Clinical Board Exam. Passing the $950 test earns a license to practice.

• Eligibility for federal grants or student loans is determined after completion of the FAFSA form (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). The form may be completed by hand or online and must be submitted for each school year.
• The American Dental Hygienists Association annually awards scholarships to qualified students.

• The American Dental Hygienist Association maintains a list of dental hygienist programs by state.

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