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Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is an excellent way to start a career in healthcare. But what if you're concerned about the cost? Good news! There are several ways to become a CNA for free or at minimal cost. Let's explore your options:
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Many healthcare facilities offer free CNA training programs. Here's what you need to know:
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You can find these opportunities through job boards like Indeed, the direct job postings of these facilities, or inquiring directly with the employer.
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) can provide funding for CNA training. All states have American Job Centers that can give career counseling and potentially funding for your education. These centers are known under different names in many states, such as America's Job Center of California (AJCC) or CareerSource in Florida.
To get funding, you will need to:
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Visit the CareerOneStop website to find your nearest American Job Center and schedule an appointment.
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Community colleges may offer free CNA programs:
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Nursing homes that accept Medicare or Medicaid are required to reimburse CNAs for their training costs:
Be sure to keep all receipts and documentation of your training costs and discuss the reimbursement process with your employer during the hiring process. Although this is required by law, some employers do not have this process set up. They may either take forever to grant it back to you or they may not be compliant at all.
Note your employer may require you work for a set amount of time before they will reimburse you. although they are not supposed to do that.
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Many CNA schools have relationships with employers or state programs that can offset training costs. Contact local CNA schools and ask about employer partnerships or state funding programs
For example, Colorado has significant grant programs specifically for CNA training, outside of WIOA funding. California used to via Caring4Cal, but unfortunately that program is now over.
If you're already employed, your current job might be your ticket to free CNA training:
Many employers offer educational benefits as part of their compensation package. These benefits might cover CNA programs, especially if it's relevant to your current role or potential future roles within the company. For example, Amazon Career Choice covers some CNA schools, depending on where you live.
Tips for approaching your employer:
Additional Resources and Strategies
Consider Dreambound as a valuable resource if you're thinking about getting started in this field. We've written many guides to help you: