The legal occupations are “projected to grow about as fast as average for all occupations”. This forecast translates to about 83,800 openings every year, on average (BLS, 2024-2034).
What does this mean for paralegals? It means a steady demand for their legal support services among diverse employers. Law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies are among them.
There’s also the fact that paralegals won’t be made obsolete by artificial intelligence (AI). Indeed, AI cannot replace the human judgment of paralegals. Plus, technology makes the paralegals’ job faster and expands their roles.
But the paralegal profession is among the most competitive in the legal industry. If you want to be more competitive as an entry-level paralegal, earning a certification is a must. Employers either require or prefer certified paralegals for their job readiness.
Then again, we understand if the rising education costs are a hindrance. There’s a need for affordable alternatives for this reason – and we’re here for it.
In this guide, we’ll cover affordable certifications, including their fees and financial aid.
Related:
- Entry-Level Paralegal Certification Requirements: What You Need to Know
- Best Value Online Paralegal Certificates
- Top Organizations Offering Paralegal Certifications
- Top Resources for Paralegal Certification Exam Preparation
- What Are the Different Paralegal Certification Bodies and Exams?
Why Entry-Level Certification Matters
Entry-level paralegal certification is a formal recognition of a person’s:
- Compliance with the eligibility requirements set by the certifying body
- Competence in the performance of core paralegal tasks
- Commitment to the legal field and to its ethical standards
Certification has many purposes, including:
- Standardizes the vital knowledge and skills that entry-level paralegals must have
- Builds practical skills among entry-level paralegals
If you earn an entry-level certification, your job prospects and earning potential increase. You stand out from non-certified paralegals. Indeed, it offers excellent value for the time and money investment.
Affordable paralegal certification programs are for:
- Career changers who don’t have a legal background or a college degree.
- Recent high school graduates or community college students seeking a good career.
So, if you want an affordable pathway toward becoming a paralegal, read on.
Top Budget-Friendly Paralegal Certification Programs
NALA Certified Paralegal (CP)
The NALA offers budget-friendly paralegal training, especially for its members. So, you should consider becoming a member to enjoy membership discounts. These cover application fees and review bundles, among other perks.
The application fee ranges from $300 to $325, depending on membership status. NALA offers scholarships to offset the cost, too.
Candidates can choose from three pathways (i.e., eligibility requirements).
- Pathway #1 – Formal paralegal education
- Completion of an approved paralegal program, which can be one of the following:
- ABA-approved certification program
- Associate’s degree in paralegal studies
- Bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies
- Post-baccalaureate certificate program in paralegal studies
- Pathway #2 – Bachelor’s degree combined with either relevant experience or coursework
- A bachelor’s degree in any field and at least one year of paralegal work experience; OR
- A bachelor’s degree in any field and at least 15 semester hours in substantive paralegal courses
- Pathway #3 – High school diploma and at least seven years of paralegal work experience
NALA offers prep materials for free or at a low cost.
NFPA Core Registered Paralegal (CRP)
The CRP credential is for entry-level paralegals who have met the eligibility requirements. NFPA has several pathways toward certification, too, including:
- Bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies
- Bachelor’s degree in any field and a paralegal certificate
- Bachelor’s degree in any field, six months of paralegal experience, and 1 hour of ethics CLE
- Associate’s degree in paralegal studies
You’ll find many high-quality yet low-cost paralegal programs that meet these standards.
The NFPA charges between $225 and $275 for its application fee. Candidates can choose from flexible payment options.
NALS Accredited Legal Professional (ALP)
In a paralegal certification cost comparison, NALS charges the lowest certification fees. Candidates pay $150-$200 for the exam, and even its membership costs are affordable. NALS also offers bundle pricing options for its exam prep materials.
The ALP credential is ideal for new professionals, recent graduates, and students.
State-Based Low-Cost Certifications
Many states also offer state-specific paralegal certifications. Residents enjoy more affordable rates, too. The best examples are:
- Florida Registered Paralegal (FRP)
- North Carolina Certified Paralegal (NCCP)
- Texas Board of Legal Specialization (TBLS) – Certified Paralegal
- Ohio State Bar Association (OSBA) – Certified Paralegal
- Louisiana Certified Paralegal (LCP)
In some states, the paralegal certification programs are integrated into community college programs.
Online Paralegal Certification Options
You can also choose from paralegal certification online programs for their benefits.
- Save time and money by skipping the commute
- Learn at your own pace and time, or choose a part-time program
- Potential for lower tuition and fees
- Overcome geographical limitations (i.e., enroll from anywhere)
- Learn the technology used in paralegal work
If you’re struggling with cash, choose quality yet cheap paralegal certification programs. Better yet, choose only from approved or accredited paralegal programs.
The following institutions are affiliated or recognized by NALA, NFPA, or NALS.
- Blackstone Career Institute offers affordable, online, and self-paced programs.
- Center for Legal Studies offers instructor-led, self-paced, and online options.
What’s Included in Certification Costs
Paralegal certification programs are more affordable than degree programs. But you must also understand what you’re paying for.
Here are the main expenses that you must be aware of.
- Application fee
- Exam fee
- Study materials
- Membership dues (optional), but membership has its perks
You can avoid unnecessary add-ons by keeping these tips in mind.
- Compare the programs you’re interested in.
- Read the fine print. Understand the refund policies and look for hidden fees.
- Use free or low-cost study materials and resources.
- Look for student, military, and employee discounts.
Financial Aid and Payment Options
You’ll be surprised at the wide range of financial aid for paralegal students available. If you’re pursuing a paralegal degree, diploma, or certificate, you may be eligible for federal aid. You must be enrolled in a Title IV-approved program to apply for:
- Pell grants
- Federal student loans
- Work-study
Be sure to explore other financial aid options, too, including:
- Employer tuition reimbursement and training grants
- Scholarships and grants from your college and private organizations
If you’re enrolled in a community college, ask about waivers and payment plans.
Indeed, it’s your ultimate responsibility to enjoy affordable paralegal certification.
Scholarships for Paralegal Students
If you’re looking for scholarships for paralegal students, consider the certifying bodies. Their scholarships offer targeted financial support that offsets costs.
Examples include the:
- NALA Certifying Board Scholarship
- NFPA Student Scholarship
- AAfPE Student Scholarships
- State Bar Foundation Awards (e.g., Texas Bar Foundation Scholarship)
Check your local community organizations for scholarships and grants, too. Ask your high school guidance officer for leads.
Remember these tips when applying for financial aid.
- Start early so you don’t have to scramble to meet deadlines.
- Stay organized with deadlines, documents, and other requirements.
- Request letters of recommendation early.
- Submit a strong personal statement.
Even a small amount will add up, so apply for as many scholarships as possible.
Tips for Choosing the Right Affordable Certification
Affordable doesn’t automatically mean value. So, when choosing from affordable programs, consider the value you’ll get, too. Here are the steps you can take to do so.
- Match your career goals with program outcomes.
- Ensure the program is accredited or recognized by employers.
- Consider the long-term ROI, not just the upfront cost.
In the end, the value you’ll enjoy depends on your smart choice.
Entry-Level Job Opportunities After Certification
Earning an entry-level paralegal certification opens job opportunities in diverse industries, including:
- Law firms
- Corporate legal departments
- Insurance companies
- Healthcare organizations
- Government agencies
- Nonprofits
Common job titles include:
- Legal assistant
- Paralegal
- Legal support specialist
Certified paralegals also tend to get hired faster. Employers see them as more job-ready with their training.
Salaries for certified paralegals vary by employer, location, and job title. Paralegals earned $61,010/year in median wages (BLS, May 2024).
Conclusion
In conclusion, you don’t need to break the bank to start a paralegal career. But you must be proactive in exploring low-cost certifications and scholarship options.
Start your paralegal journey today with an affordable online program. Explore our articles for more information about becoming a paralegal, too.
Comparison Table: Cost Breakdown of Top Entry-Level Certifications
| Certification | Application Fee | Exam Fee | Study Materials | Membership (Optional) | Total Estimated Costs |
| NALA – CP | $125 | $200 | Free to $150 | $75/year | $325-$550 |
| NFPA – CRP | $25–$50 | $225 | $50–$150 | $50–$125 | $300-$500 |
| NALS – ALP | $75 | $125 | $50–$100 | $40–$140 | $250–$440 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest paralegal certification?
The ALP certification is widely considered the most affordable paralegal certification. But we must also point out that many states offer low-cost options for residents, too.
Emphasis must also be made that your overall costs will vary. You must account for your study materials, optional fees, and opportunity costs.
Can I become a certified paralegal online?
Yes, you can. Many certifying bodies, particularly NALA, enable candidates to earn their certification fully online.
Is financial aid available for paralegal certification?
Yes, it is, but it depends on the type of program. If you want federal financial aid, enroll in an accredited college.
