Are you interested in how to become a cna for free? Some programs pay for CNA training, allowing you to get nursing aide education at no cost.
Although CNA classes are cheaper than other medical fields, some candidates can’t still afford them.
Therefore, some programs and organizations provide specific financial aid to enable them to pay their tuition. While this financial assistance might be scholarships, others are grants and loans.
You’ll find these programs that pay for CNA training as you read this article. But before then, we’ll give you tips on how to apply for such financial aid and review the cost of CNA classes nationwide.
Cost Of Completing A CNA Program
how much you’ll spend to become a certified nursing assistant depends on several factors. The type of institution you choose and your location. The class you wish to complete also counts significantly.
But generally, the cost of completing CNA training is between $800 to $25,000. Besides tuition fees, you may be required to buy other equipment needed for the program.
Financial Programs that Cover CNA Tuition
As mentioned earlier, several programs are available to assist in financing your education. These sponsorships could come as scholarships, grants, or loans.
While the government sponsors some, others belong to private organizations. However, each program has an outstanding amount of money to assist students. Let’s check them out.
Government Funding Programs for CNA Students
More than one government funding scheme and free training programs are open for aspiring CNA students. They include the health professional shortage area (HPSA) program, job corps, Medicare service-based tuition reimbursement, and more.
Health Professional Shortage Area Program
This can be a state or federal-sponsored scheme. They’re dedicated to relieving healthcare experts and offer admissions assistance, financial aid, and other tuition relievers.
This is in exchange for future work commitments through Professional Shortage Area programs.
Job Corps
Job Corps offers free CNA training at many of its centers around the globe.
Their training includes living allowances, clothing allowances, and job placement. Moreover, students can study either at the job center or off-campus.
If you’re lucky, some programs may provide child support for students with kids. Then those without GED or its equivalent can help you get a high school credential before starting their training.
Medicare Service-Based Tuition Reimbursement
If a Medicaid facility hires you, you can get tuition reimbursement for your CNA training. Their reimbursement typically covers tuition, books, and competency exam fees.
However, some reimbursement programs may have unique essentials and limits. It all depends on the amount you can receive. Therefore, check carefully before taking a significant step.
American Red Cross
You can also get free CNA training from the American Red Cross.
They have branches in several parts of the country. If you live in areas where these classes are provided, you can take advantage of them at no cost.
However, some American Red Cross programs charge for CNA training. But they often provide grants and scholarships to students with little to no income.
Before qualifying for Red Cross-paid CNA training, a few conditions must be met. First off, you must have a clean background check. Secondly, you must be 18 years and above.
Depending on where you live, these programs may offer a $1,395 or more tuition reliever.
Private Paid Training Program for CNAs
Remember, some private organizations also provide sponsorship for CNA training. These programs include compass health CNA classes, finger lakes health CNA programs and Genesis Healthcare.
Others are Fair acres senior center, the healthcare training collaborative, the Greater Philadelphia Partnership, and more. Allow us to review a few of these programs quickly.
Compass Health CNA Classes
This is a healthcare provider that’s based in California. They offer paid CNA training for their employees to gain hands-on experience and all the benefits of a typical healthcare position.
Finger Lakes Health CNA Programs
You can enroll in their free CNA training if you work for the above organization.
Their programs typically last weeks and cover about 138 hours of classroom, lab, and clinical instruction. Once you’ve completed your program, you can work anywhere around New York and the States.
Health Care Training Collaborative
You mustn’t be an employee to benefit from their paid CNA training. Once you qualify under their income guidelines, you can send your application.
Their CNA programs are focused on under-skilled and underemployed individuals. As of 2007, the program trains about 325 students.
Workforce Investment Act Programs
The federal workforce investment act was enacted to enhance the workforce of the U.S.
They provide funds to vocational schools and colleges to conduct CNA training at no cost. You can enroll in one of these institutions sponsored by the investment act program and become a CNA for free.
School Payment Plan
Apart from the programs listed above, school payment plans can assist in financing your training. These plans are available at Arizona medical training institute, caregiver training institute, and Life’s solution health payment.
Others include Frederick community college, preferred Future, Stein Academy, and more.
Certain conditions must be satisfied before accessing some of these payment programs. For instance, some payment plans demand students pay 50% of their tuition before starting their classes.
Additionally, you may be required to pay enrollment or administrative fees. Depending on your chosen plan, the percentage ranges from 25% to 30 %.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
This is a scholarship program specially designed for students with financial constraints. However, students seeking to become certified nursing assistants can also apply for sponsorship.
But you’ll be required to complete the FAFSA form before applying. All the details you’ll provide in the form will be used to determine your eligibility for the scholarship.
How much you’ll get from the scholarship depends on your tuition cost, among other factors. But remember, you’ll receive either full or partial sponsorship for your CNA training.
Ensure you research more on this funding aid before you take further action.
It’s good to seek funding programs that finance CNA training if you’re not financially buoyant.
There’re several of them around the country to explore. But while you scout for one, ensure you learn about their terms and conditions.
You can look for scholarships and grants outside these paid programs to finance your education.
