Becoming a phlebotomist gives you a great opportunity to get experience in a healthcare setting. Phlebotomists have excellent job security and a variety of work schedule options, earn a decent salary, and get to make a difference in the lives of others.
But how much do phlebotomy school and certification cost?
Phlebotomy school and certification cost around $700 to $2,000 in total, depending on the program you choose.
This guide goes over how much different phlebotomy training and certification options cost, how to become a phlebotomist, and more.
How Much Phlebotomy Classes & Training Programs Cost
The cheapest phlebotomy classes and training programs start at around $500 and go up to $1,000. More expensive programs range from $1,000 to $2,500. Online programs are often less expensive than training programs through community colleges.
Cost of Online Phlebotomy Training Programs
Online phlebotomy training programs are a convenient way to get your phlebotomy certification from home. They may include live Zoom classes or have self-paced schedules where coursework can be completed on your own timeline.
Online programs are generally inexpensive and can be completed fairly quickly. Often, online phlebotomy programs can be completed in 4 to 6 weeks. Online programs will require you to submit evidence of successful venipunctures that you complete at home.
Cost of Phlebotomy Certificate Program from a Community College
Many community colleges offer in-person phlebotomy certificate programs. These programs last anywhere from 1 to 6 months and are usually a little more expensive than online programs. Most community colleges offer evening and weekend classes to accommodate busy schedules.
There is no such thing as a degree in phlebotomy. All college phlebotomy programs are certificate programs. Here are some examples:
- AIMS Education offers a hybrid program that can be completed in 1 month of evening courses or 3 months with weekend-only classes. Their phlebotomy course tuition is about $1,300.
- Springfield Technical Community College tuition is a little more expensive at $2,000. Their 168-hour in-person course includes the NHA exam fee and liability insurance.
- Carolina’s College of Health Sciences is one of the least expensive options for phlebotomy training at a community college. Their phlebotomy program tuition is only $700, but it does not include test prep materials or your exam fee.
>> See Other Options: Cheapest Phlebotomy Classes & Training Programs
Deciding Which Phlebotomy Program Makes the Most Financial Sense for You
Because there are so many different phlebotomy programs to choose from, it can feel overwhelming to make a decision.
The first thing you should consider is your learning style. Online programs are very convenient, but some people have a difficult time with virtual learning. If you have a hard time with procrastination or need in-person guidance, a community college program will work better for you.
On the other hand, online phlebotomy programs are usually less expensive and can be completed more quickly. They often make the most financial sense. Make sure to find out whether your exam fee is included in your program cost.
Whether you choose an online or in-person program, make sure that they meet the eligibility requirements for a certification exam. Choosing programs that have partnerships with organizations like the NHA ensures that you’ll get a high-quality education.
Keep in mind that employers are only typically concerned with whether or not your are certified. It is rare for an organization to be picky about where you got your training, as long as you pass your certification exam.
Cost of Phlebotomy Certifications
There are quite a few phlebotomy certification options that you can choose from, each with its own cost and renewal costs. Let’s take a look:
Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) – National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
The National Healthcareer Association is one of the most widely recognized certifying organizations. Students who pass their NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) exam are eligible to work in all states except California, Nevada, and Louisiana.
Exam eligibility requires you to complete an accredited phlebotomy program with at least 30 successful venipunctures and 10 capillary sticks
The initial exam cost for the CPT is $117. You must recertify every two years by completing 10 continuing education credits and paying a $179 fee.
Certified Phlebotomist Technologist (CPT) – National Phlebotomy Association (NPA)
The National Phlebotomy Association offers certification exams for new phlebotomists and phlebotomy instructors.
Eligibility requirements for this exam include completing an accredited phlebotomy training course that includes 160 hours of lecture and 200 hours of in-person practice.
The initial exam costs $90, and you can keep your certification by maintaining an NPA membership for $100 per year.
Phlebotomy Technician (PBT) – American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)
The American Society for Clinical Pathology offers a PBT exam to those who have completed an accredited program and at least 100 venipunctures.
Their certification exam costs $135 with no annual renewal fee.
Phlebotomy Technician Certificate (PTC) – American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT)
To take the PTC exam offered by the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians, you’ll need to complete an accredited program and at least 75 successful venipunctures.
This certification exam costs $175, and you must pay an annual $35 fee to maintain your certification.
Phlebotomy Technician Certification (RPT) - American Medical Technologists (AMT)
American Medical Technologists is another well-known credentialing agency for several different medical specialties.
Eligibility requirements for this exam include completing a 120-hour phlebotomy course and at least 50 venipunctures.
The RPT exam costs $125. You have to pay $75 each year to renew your certification.
Paying for Phlebotomy Schooling or Training
Since phlebotomy programs are certificate programs, there are fewer options for financial aid than there are for degree programs. However, phlebotomy training programs are significantly less expensive than degree programs.
If you do need some help paying for phlebotomy school or training, there are some things you can try:
- Scholarships. Students trying to get a phlebotomy certificate are eligible for some scholarships. Scholarships are usually only given to students enrolled in college, meaning you may have a hard time getting a scholarship if you choose an online program.
- Grants. A Federal Pell Grant is similar to a scholarship because you do not have to pay it back. However, Pell Grants are needs-based only. Eligibility for a Pell Grant depends on your financial need including expected family contribution and your own income. You must be enrolled in a college to receive a Pell Grant.
- Savings. The surest way to have money for phlebotomy school is to save up your own money. Since online programs can be completed for just a few hundred dollars, most people are able to save up enough money to pay for them relatively quickly.
- Student loans. You may be eligible for either a federal student loan or a private student loan to pay for your phlebotomy training. Federal loans usually have lower interest rates and more flexible payment schedules. However, federal loans are reserved for students enrolled in college programs. Some private student loans may be used for online courses, but they usually have higher interest rates and strict repayment schedules.
- Employer sponsorship. If you can, try to find work at a facility that offers tuition reimbursement. Many hospitals and other healthcare centers will reimburse you for your training costs as long as you commit to working at the company for a few months.
If you are wondering about what kinds of student loans and grants you can get, you should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
You will need your tax return information, and your parents' tax return information if you are younger than 25.
Once you fill out the form, you’ll receive an email with details about what kinds of grants and loans you are eligible for.
You can choose to accept the loans or the grants at that time. Grant money is usually sent directly to your school of choice. The deadline for FAFSA applications is June 30 for the upcoming school year.
