What is a CNA?

A Certified Nursing Assistant or Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) is a vital member of the healthcare team who provides basic care to patients. Working under the supervision of registered nurses, CNAs assist with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, feeding, and monitoring vital signs. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities. Given the ongoing CNA shortage, their role in delivering up to 90% of direct resident care in long-term facilities is more critical than ever.

What Are the Requirements to Become a CNA in High School?

While specific requirements vary, most high school students can meet the criteria for a CNA program.

A high school diploma is not always required to enroll in a CNA training program. Many private schools and community colleges only require proof of an 8th-grade education or passing a basic reading and math proficiency test.

Age requirements are determined by each state, as there is no federal minimum age for CNA training.

• Some states, like California, allow students as young as 16 to enroll in training and become certified.
• Other states, like Michigan, have no minimum age for training but have employment restrictions for minors working in certain healthcare settings.

It's important to note that while you may be able to get certified at 16 or 17, many employers—especially hospitals—prefer to hire CNAs who are at least 18 years old. Other common requirements include passing a criminal background check and being in good physical health.

Where Can I Look for CNA Programs?

As a high school student, you have several options for finding a CNA program that fits your schedule and budget.

1. Your High School: Start by talking to your school's guidance counselor or Career Technical Education (CTE) coordinator. Many high schools offer their own CNA programs or partner with local training providers. These programs are often free or heavily discounted, may offer class credit, and are scheduled to work around your classes.

2. Community Colleges: Many high schools have dual-enrollment partnerships with local community colleges, which may allow you to take a CNA course at little to no cost. You will likely need a recommendation from your principal or counselor. Contact the community college's admissions office to ask about their specific requirements for high school students.

3. Trade Schools: Private vocational schools offer accelerated programs that can be completed in just a few weeks, making them a great option for summer or winter break. They often provide flexible evening and weekend schedules. While this route can be more expensive, you can explore workforce grants or payment plans to help manage the cost. You can view payment options for schools in your area on Dreambound.

4. Nursing Homes: Some nursing homes and long-term care facilities offer free CNA training programs in exchange for a commitment to work there for a set period (usually 3-12 months) after certification. These programs are competitive but provide invaluable, real-world experience. Volunteering at the facility first can help your application stand out.

Why Become a CNA in High School? 

Earning your CNA certification before graduation offers significant advantages for your future. Beyond the 7 great reasons to become a CNA, here are a few more benefits for high school students:

1. Flexible Schedule: CNA jobs are available on a full-time, part-time, and on-call basis, making it easy to find a position that works around your school schedule.
2. Gain Hands-On Experience: High school is the perfect time to explore career paths. Working as a CNA gives you a real look at the healthcare field, helping you decide if a nursing or medical career is right for you before committing to a college major.
3. Strengthen Future Applications: Work experience as a CNA demonstrates responsibility and commitment, which looks great on college and job applications. You can also get a strong letter of recommendation from your supervisor.
4. Affordable Career Training: Compared to a four-year degree, vocational training is a fast and affordable way to enter the workforce. With 17 percent of U.S. adults holding student loan debt, starting with a cost-effective certification can be a smart financial decision.
5. A Doorway to Other Healthcare Careers: Working as a CNA is an excellent entry point into the medical field. The experience can serve as a foundation for becoming a Registered Nurse (RN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), or other healthcare professional. Many employers also offer tuition assistance for CNAs who want to advance their education.

How to Become a CNA in High School: A Step-by-Step Guide

Becoming a CNA while in high school is a straightforward process that can set you on a path to a stable and rewarding career.

Step 1: Verify Your State's Requirements First, check the specific age and eligibility requirements for CNA certification in your state. You can usually find this information on your state's Board of Nursing or Department of Health website.

Step 2: Find and Enroll in a State-Approved Program Next, find a CNA training program that fits your needs. Explore options at your high school, local community colleges, vocational schools, or nursing homes. You can use Dreambound to search for approved programs near you.

Step 3: Complete Your Training CNA training consists of classroom instruction and supervised clinical practice. You will learn essential skills like patient care, safety procedures, and infection control. The total number of required hours varies by state.

Step 4: Pass the Certification Exam: After completing your training, you must pass your state's CNA competency exam. The exam has two parts: a written or oral test and a hands-on skills demonstration. Exam fees vary by state; for example, the initial exam costs $90 in California and $115 in Michigan. Once you pass, you will be added to your state's nurse aide registry and can officially work as a CNA.