As the population continues to age, demand for quality healthcare providers grows. Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) are crucial to 24/7 care in nursing homes, yet there is a shortage of workers. To combat this, programs are available that offer free training to eligible candidates. If you’re interested in getting started in healthcare, keep reading to learn where to find free training resources and what you can expect when applying.
In this article:
- Medicare Mandates Free Training
- Where to Find Free CNA Training
- Eligibility Requirements For Free Training
- Pros and Cons of Free CNA Training
- What You Will Learn in a Free CNA Training Program
- How to Find and Apply to Free Programs
Medicare Mandates Free Training
Federal law requires that nursing homes provide adequate staff to care for their residents. To meet these guidelines, many facilities cover the cost of training programs, textbooks and materials, and competency testing for eligible employees.
What if You Already Paid For Training?
If you paid for your own training and are hired by a Medicaid/Medicare-certified nursing home within 12 months of certification, you are entitled to reimbursement for your costs. Remember to keep any receipts from program or testing fees, as well as your certificate of completion, as proof for reimbursement.
Where to Find Free CNA Training
You can inquire directly with local nursing homes in your area to ask if they offer free CNA training. There are also several government-funded and non-profit options available.
Government-Funded Programs
Job Corps: This program provides free CNA training for students aged 16-24. Job Corps also offers a basic living allowance and a transition allowance once you graduate. CNA training is available at 54 campus locations nationwide.
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA): For adults who are unemployed, underemployed, or low-income, WIOA covers costs for training, books, and uniforms. To determine your eligibility, search for an American Job Center near you.
Non-Profit Organizations
Goodwill Industries offers free healthcare job training to those with barriers to employment. Contact a Goodwill Career Center near you for assistance with career resources.
Eligibility Requirements For Free Training
Free training programs often come with stipulations such as maintaining a high level of academic achievement or completing prerequisite courses. Other requirements may include:
- Age: Minimum 16 or 18 (depending on the state).
- Education: High School Diploma or GED (though some programs, such as Job Corps, can help you with this as well).
- Background Check: Clean criminal record (specific disqualifying offenses vary by state).
- Health: Tuberculosis (TB) screening, a physical exam, and up-to-date immunizations, as you will be providing hands-on care.
Pros and Cons of Free CNA Training
The obvious pros of free CNA training are entering a career with zero debt. CNA’s are always in demand, so you can expect job security. If an employer is providing on-the-job training, your experience is immediately relevant.
A potential downside of free training is a contractual obligation. Some employers or programs may require a job commitment, so if you find that you don’t like working as a CNA or the specific workplace isn’t a fit, you won’t be able to quit easily.
Unexpected Costs of Free Training
Even if a program covers 100% of your tuition or courses, there may still be unforeseen out-of-pocket costs. This may include scrubs, shoes, or a watch with a second hand. You may also be responsible for the cost of your background check or CPR certification.
What You Will Learn in a Free CNA Training Program
Free CNA training will cover all of the foundational skills necessary for safe care. You will begin with learning medical terminology, anatomy, infection control, and patient rights. Most of your training will involve practicing hands-on skills like bathing, feeding, and dressing patients, assisting with transfers, and measuring vital signs. You will likely practice skills in a lab first on a dummy patient or other students, but will quickly move on to performing tasks in the real world under the supervision of an instructor.
Passing The CNA Examination
You will be required to pass your state’s CNA examination to work as a licensed CNA. The exam consists of a written multiple-choice test and a clinical skills test. The cost for the CNA exam varies by state, but most are between $115 – $155. Your free training program will likely cover this cost, but be sure to ask.
How to Find and Apply to Free Programs
First, locate CNA programs in your area by searching the following phrases online: “CNA sponsorship,” “CNA trainee,” or “free CNA class near me.” Include broader search terms like “Resident Assistant,” “Personal Care Aide,” or “Hospitality Aide.” Facilities often hire for these roles first and then offer CNA sponsorship to deserving employees.
Next, you can contact the State Board of Nursing. They can provide a list of approved training programs for you to contact, helping you avoid scams.
Prepare for Applying
It’s time to get organized. Once you find a legitimate training program you are eligible for, make sure you have documentation organized, such as your ID, social security card, high school diploma or GED, and immunization records.
Landing the Job
It’s important to treat your training application like a job interview, especially if a nursing facility is willing to train you as you work. Employers, federal programs, and non-profits invest in people who appear professional, committed, and eager.
If you’re interested in beginning a career in healthcare, working as a CNA is the perfect starting point. Take advantage of employer-sponsored programs, local resources, or government-funded programs, without the cost burden. Most CNA programs are completed in under 12 weeks. That means your time commitment can quickly translate into a meaningful career with plenty of opportunities for growth.
