SMART INVESTMENT

How Much Does Dental Assistant School Really Cost?

See how Lafayette Dental Assistant School compares on cost, time, and return on investment — and how you can graduate debt-free.

Start Your Application

Get Your Personalized Cost Breakdown

Apply today and we'll walk you through tuition, payment plans, and financial options.

Weeks to Graduate
12
Total Tuition
$2,850
Next Start Date
April 25, 2026
Down Payment as Low As
$450

Cost Comparison: Your Options

When it comes to becoming a dental assistant, you have choices. But not all paths offer the same value. Here's how the numbers compare:

Feature Lafayette Dental Assistant School Community College University Program
Tuition $2,850 $10,000-$20,000 $15,000-$30,000+
Time to Career 12 weeks 1-2 years 2-4 years
Student Loan Debt $0 $5,000-$15,000 $15,000-$40,000+
Payment Plans Yes — flexible weekly payments Semester billing Semester billing
Earning Sooner In 12 weeks In 1-2 years In 2-4 years

The Real Cost of Waiting

Every month you spend in a longer program is a month you're not earning a dental assistant salary. Dental assistants in the U.S. earn a median salary of $46,540 per year. By completing your training in 12 weeks instead of 1-2 years, you could earn $46,000+ more during the time others are still in school.

Flexible Payment Plans

We offer payment plans that work with your budget — no student loans needed.

Pay in Full

Pay $2,850 upfront and save on payment plan fees. This is the most popular option for students who want to keep costs as low as possible.

Weekly Payment Plan

Start with a deposit of $450 and make manageable weekly payments. No credit checks, no interest — just a simple plan that fits your budget.

WIOA Funding May Be Available

Lafayette Dental Assistant School is approved for WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) funding. If you qualify, your tuition may be partially or fully covered through government workforce development programs. Learn more about WIOA eligibility.

What Are Our Students Saying?
My instructors Brenna, Sherri and Priscilla are great. I learn a great deal from them and they are always willing to answer questions.
Reviewer profile photo
Andrea Allen
Stars for review
I am incredibly grateful for the three instructors, Brenna, Sheri, and Priscilla, in my dental assistant program. Each of them brought knowledge, patience, and real-world experience into the classroom, making even the most challenging material easier to understand. They were always supportive, approachable, and genuinely invested in our success. Their encouragement and hands-on teaching style helped build my confidence and prepared me for the dental field. I couldn’t have asked for a better team of instructors, and I truly appreciate the dedication they showed to us every step of the way. Read less
I am incredibly grateful for the three instructors, Brenna, Sheri, and Priscilla, in my dental assistant program. Each of them brought knowledge, patience, and real-world experience into the classr... Read more
Reviewer profile photo
Brenda Lyman
Stars for review
Brenda and Sherrie have been wonderful instructors thus far. I have learned a lot from them with the dental assistant that I enrolled in. I have asked questions and been shown how to take steps into in the dental assistant role. They take the time and patients with each and everyone of thier students to ensure their success in the dental assistanting field. Best education you can get for value you spend on it! Highly recommend this school and these instructors. Read less
Brenda and Sherrie have been wonderful instructors thus far. I have learned a lot from them with the dental assistant that I enrolled in. I have asked questions and been shown how to take steps int... Read more
Reviewer profile photo
Shantell Spencer
Stars for review
This has been a great experience for me. This program works around my work schedule and is super flexible. It is accelerated but I feel like the instructors, Brenna, Sherrie, and Pricilla are so informative and really take the time to share their experiences with you so you can grow. At week 9, I have already secured a job and finished externships to be able to work in this field. Great experience! Read less
This has been a great experience for me. This program works around my work schedule and is super flexible. It is accelerated but I feel like the instructors, Brenna, Sherrie, and Pricilla are so in... Read more
Reviewer profile photo
Faith Gibson
Stars for review
I’ve had a great experience with this program. The instructors, Sherrie and Brenna, are very knowledgeable and they make class enjoyable and it’s great to work hands-on. At week 9, I was offered a job at an office and the whole experience has been great! Read less
I’ve had a great experience with this program. The instructors, Sherrie and Brenna, are very knowledgeable and they make class enjoyable and it’s great to work hands-on. At week 9, I was offered a ... Read more
Reviewer profile photo
aubrey lewis
Stars for review
My instructors Sherri and Brenna are amazing and make the class very fun and make the time go by quick. The 12 week program is going by extremely fast and I met amazing people.
Reviewer profile photo
Olivia Joyce
Stars for review
Amazing place to work at!
Reviewer profile photo
mehreen sohail
Stars for review
Load more Load more reviews

Invest in Your Future — Without the Debt

Our students graduate career-ready without student loans. Let us show you how.

Start Your Application

Or call us now: (765) 615-4012