how much does it cost for a cna course

by Giovani Cole III 7 min read

An approved CNA program is affordable.
The average cost of a CNA program is about $1,300. To be certified, you'll spend about $125 for the examination and $50 to register with your state and get proof of certification.
Sep 4, 2021

How much could I generally make as a CNA?

How much can cna make? A Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) makes an average yearly salary of $28,540, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, with a reported salary range from $19,000 and goes up to $42,000 according to PayScale.

How to find an affordable CNA program?

Top 5 CNA Training Tips

  • How to Choose the Right CNA Class
  • Preparing for CNA Training
  • Steps to CNA Certification
  • Where to get CNA Scrubs
  • CNA Certification Renewal

How difficult is a CNA course?

“There’s always going to be people who need a nursing home. And that is going to be their permanent home for their last days. And we can’t close down, we are a 24-hour operation.” Training to become a CNA can take from 6 to 12 weeks. The price of a typical program is around $1,000.

How much does a CNA get paid an hour?

How much does a cna make an hour? The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the average CNA salary per hour was $14.25 in 2019. Major CNA job websites have slightly different numbers for the hourly wages, with Payscale showing the CNA pay rate as $13.02 per hour, with Indeed reporting $15.10.

How much does it cost to get your CNA online?

The average cost of an online CNA program is $700 – 1500. Some programs with higher fees cover the cost of the state certification exam, uniforms and classroom supplies. Those with a lower fee may not. Online CNA programs are not currently offered for free.

Can I do my CNA online?

Can I get a CNA license online? Many programs offer CNA classes online. However, learners must complete an in-person clinical. They may fulfill this requirement at a hospital or other healthcare setting.

How much does cna make an hour?

How Much Do CNAs Make per Hour? The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the average CNA salary per hour was $14.82 in 2020. Major CNA job websites have slightly different numbers for the hourly wages, with Payscale showing the CNA pay rate as $13.65 per hour, with Indeed reporting $15.35.

How long is CNA training?

between four and 12 weeksGenerally, most certified nursing assistant programs take between four and 12 weeks. This is broken into instructional hours and clinical practice. A typical 120-hour CNA program offered over six weeks may include four weeks in class and two weeks in a clinical setting, depending on state guidelines.

How much does a CNA cost?

CNA courses cost anything between $400 and $1200, whereas an RN degree can cost you up to $10,000. Of course, the duties of an RN or that of a doctor are highly specialized and complex, but then nurse aide is just an entry-level job, so the cost is not very high. Fee Type. Amount.

What is the job of a nurse aide?

The job of a nurse aide is very stable and you can earn good enough salaries along with gaining experience in the nursing field.

Is a certified nursing assistant a good career?

Many veterans in the field will agree that starting as a certified nursing assistant can prove to be a great career move.

How much does a CNA cost?

CNA programs cost on average $1,300, although the tuition fee largely depends on the school or institute from where you are planning to take the program. If you are unable to pay the program costs, you can cover the entire expenses via financial assistance. After completing the program, students are eligible to take the CNA examination.

How to become a CNA?

Before beginning work as a CNA, students must undergo a physical exam to ensure they are physically fit to perform various CNA duties. Additionally, they must also be tested for tuberculosis (TB) and show proof of current immunizations. All in all, the medical exam consists of: 1 A purified protein derivative (PPD) test for TB; 2 Proof of immunization; 3 A Hepatitis B Vaccine Series; 4 A completed medical form stating the student is physically fit; 5 A drug screen; 6 And a flu vaccine.

What do you need to know before you can become a CNA?

Before beginning work as a CNA, students must undergo a physical exam to ensure they are physically fit to perform various CNA duties. Additionally, they must also be tested for tuberculosis (TB) and show proof of current immunizations. All in all, the medical exam consists of:

How much does the Red Cross charge for CNA?

The American Red Cross charges $1,250 for textbooks and the CNA completion certificate. Half must be paid in advance for the registration fee, and the other half must be paid a week before classes start. The exam fee is $110 which is made payable to Prometric. The Red Cross also offers grants to deserving candidates.

How long does it take to become a CNA?

Instead, you can get a diploma or a certificate through a CNA program. Most CNA programs last from four to 12 weeks and consist of classroom training and clinical skills. You can also earn a two-year associate’s degree, which can double your tuition compared to a diploma program.

How much does an online course cost?

These classes typically cost less than traditional classes — some as low as $500. The cost will depend on which school you choose.

Do CNAs have to go through a background check?

CNAs work with many vulnerable people and therefore must undergo a criminal background check before they can start working. It’s important to note that CNAs cannot work or be licensed if they have committed certain offenses, including: Violent crimes, like homicide, assault, and battery;

What is a CNA?

A CNA is a Certified Nursing Assistant. You’re likely aware of that if you’ve made it to this page, but we have more details on the position if you’d like to learn what a CNA does. To become a CNA you need to complete a state certified program which will allow you to earn your license. It doesn’t cost as much to take a CNA training program as it ...

Do you get a job once you get a CNA?

They sometimes offer on-the-job training to prepare employees for their CNA Certification. That means you get a job once you’ve been certified. The “catch” here is that in exchange for paying to get you certified, you have to work for them for a certain length of time.

Find the CNA Program That's Right for You!

Are you thinking about enrolling in a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program and would like to learn about the tuition and fees associated with the training? Since CNA programs are relatively short, the tuition you will need to pay is quite affordable.

Average Tuition Costs

The overall average tuition and fees for in-state CNA students are about $1300, while the average cost for out-of-state students are over $2000. Some training schools charge a fixed rate per credit hour. Again, the cost varies depending on the school you choose to attend in a given state.

Other Fees

Depending on the school you choose to train at, you may also need to pay various other fees for your education. This can include such things as vaccinations, books, application fees, and supplies. Some of the most common fees you may encounter include:

How much does a CNA exam cost?

Most states have a written CNA exam and a clinical CNA exam. Costs for the total exam vary from $75 to $115, depending on what state you live in.

How much does a CNA cost in Arizona?

In Arizona for example at the Arizona Medical Institute, the cost of the CNA program is $1355. In Florida, at the Immokalee Technical College, the cost of the program is $5205. In the middle of the country, at the Nebraska Methodist College, the cost of the CNA program is $499. In Texas, there are several Job Corp Centers.

What are the free CNA programs?

Job Corps Centers. Vocational and technical schools. It is quite common for CNA programs to provide their training at no cost. These free CNA programs often are offered by long term senior health care facilities that are aggressively promoting their job openings.

What are the different types of CNA programs?

Generally, entities that offer CNA programs can be put into the following categories: Community colleges. Non profit healthcare organizations, such as the Red Cross. Hospitals. Long term care facilities. Medical training institutions or organizations. Job Corps Centers. Vocational and technical schools.

How do I become a certified nurse aide?

If you are looking to become a Certified Nurse Aide, you will have to meet a series of requirements, no matter what state you want to practice in. You will need to pass a CNA certification exam to get listed on a state CNA registry . As a part of this process, typically you will need to have to attend and successfully graduate from ...

How much does a background check cost for a CNA?

Background checks generally cost between $12.00 and $25.00.

What supplies do you need for a CNA?

Supplies may include scrubs, non-slip tennis shoes, plus writing materials. You may also have to purchase textbooks, online course packs or course DVDs. Several CNA programs will provide supplies complimentary as a part of enrollment into the CNA program.

How long does it take to get a CNA certification?

You’ll have three opportunities to pass each portion of the exam. If it takes longer than two years, you’ll need to retake the CNA training and reapply for licensure. After you pass your exam, you are certified! Your certificate should take only a few weeks to reach you.

How do I become a CNA?

Becoming a CNA is a great way to enter the field of nursing quickly. The process is straightforward and fast and doesn’t require complicated prerequisites. First, look for a CNA certificate program that appeals to you. You may have more than one program to choose from: lots of community colleges offer CNA programs.

How do I become a certified nursing assistant?

Before you can begin working as a certified nursing assistant, you must get licensed through your state licensing agency. Generally, each state’s Board of Nursing is responsible for the CNA certification and license examination. Once you’ve completed your program, get the licensing process started right away.

What classes do you need to become a bedside nursing assistant?

Possible coursework includes these classes: Taking vital signs. Communication skills. Patient hygiene care.

What happens if you are not accredited in nursing?

If your program is not accredited, you cannot sit for your state competency exam, and your name will not be added to the state’s registry of certified nursing assistants.

How long does it take to get into a TB program?

Many programs will ask you to pass a drug test and/or a criminal background check, a physical exam, and a TB test. Expect to spend around 8 to 10 weeks in your program, which will require hands-on clinical hours as well as classroom course hours.

Is online CNA course good?

Scores are usually sent directly to your instructor. Online CNA courses may be right for you, but it’s important to consider the pros and cons: Pros. Cons. Flexible schedule. Requires self-discipline and motivation. Eliminates commuting time. Requires time-management skills.

What do I need to do to become a CNA?

Before students can start working as a CNA, they need to complete a physical examination that proves they are fit enough to perform the tasks of a nursing assistant. Besides, they need to pass a TB test and demonstrate proof of current immunizations before they start working with patients.

How long does it take for a CNA to be covered by Medicare?

If you work in one of these facilities before you take your training, the costs will be covered by a Medicare/Medicaid facility within 12 months after you complete the program.

Can I pay for college tuition without debt?

Cash. If you are able to pay cash for your tuition and fees, this is a great option. In this case, you can go into your first job without debts from student loans. Some schools arrange payment plans so the cost is spread over months or weeks, making it easier to pay for the program out-of-pocket.

Can you have childcare at a clinical school?

Most schools don’t provide childcare onsite, also children aren’t allowed on clinical sites. So you will have to ensure reliable childcare.

How much does it cost to become a CNA?

Estimates for the average cost of training is around $1,300, though that could be high or low depending on your location.

How many hours do you need to take the CNA exam?

Minimum training hours are federally mandated at 75 hours, though some states require as many as 180 (Maine). Additional differences from state to state include the number of questions on the written portion of the CNA exam and the amount of time allotted for the exam.

How to renew CNA certificate?

What do I need to know about CNA recertification? 1 Find out the time period required for renewal (most states are two years, though this can vary) 2 Complete the CNA renewal form. You should receive this four months before your certificate expires. If you change addresses or don’t receive the form, contact your state’s registry to obtain the form. You must complete this form to begin the recertification process. 3 Completion of continuing education requirements (often this is 48 hours of continuing education for every two years). This will typically cover items like domestic violence, patient rights, medical record documentation, and first aid. 4 Pass a routine background check. This will usually check for things like felony charges, which could pose problems in the recertification process. 5 Check your renewal status online to make sure you have been recertified/renewed.

What happens if you don't renew your CNA?

If you don’t renew your certificate before it expires you’ll have to pay a delinquency fee. Whether you’re going after a CNA renewal or recertification the process is basically the same. Find out the time period required for renewal (most states are two years, though this can vary) Complete the CNA renewal form.

Is CNA training the same as training for nursing assistants?

The training required to become a CNA is similar from state to state. The training is similar due to the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987 which set minimum standards for Nursing Assistant training.

Why are nursing assistant classes so cheap?

These online classes are cheap because they don’t have to indulge in the routine costs of hiring trainers, conducting classrooms, and provide books for studying.

How many cities does the Red Cross have CNA training?

The American Red Cross society conducts CNA training programs in 36 major cities of the United States which are run by the local chapters. Not all the classes run by Red Cross are cheap and the particular chapter designs implement the programs and decide the costs related to it.

When a facility offers financial aid to a student for higher studies, then that student has to work for the same

Similarly, when any facility offers financial aid to a student for higher studies, then that student has to work for the same facility after completion of education. This kind of interaction is mutual and is beneficial to both the students as well as the institution.

Is CNA training cost effective?

The cheap CNA classes are a great example of cost-effective training; they don’t provide you with extravagant or unwanted training material and equipment, their focus is on providing good training at less cost by keeping the cost to bear minimum.

Is a nursing aide program accredited?

The program should be accredited and must offer good quality education given by state-approved nurses. In short, it should have state recognition and the certified nursing aide certification obtained should have a reputation in the nursing industry.

Is it better to get the confirmation about all the facilities which must be provided during the certified nursing aide training program

Even if the cost seems feasible, it is always better to get the confirmation about all the desired facilities which must be provided during the certified nursing aide training program.

Can I take nursing assistant classes online for free?

The best of free certified nursing assistant programs are undoubtedly offered online. It is the best and the most convenient way of taking such classes. Free classes can also be taken offline, but certain conditions have to be followed for it.

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