We’re going back to the mailbag for this one, Laura from Missouri asks:
“Hi there guys! I’ve heard a lot about free cna training, how do I take advantage of that?”
First off, it’s worth mentioning that the word free comes with a few caveats. You can’t just expect to walk into a college and say abracadabra and get all of your classes paid for. In fact, getting complimentary training is hard to do. But, the important thing is that: you can do it. So let’s examine the options we have.
1. Government Help
If you’re currently unemployed there’s a good chance that you’ll be able to get grants and funding to become a certified nursing assistant. Check into a local WIA office and see if they can point you in the right direction. Arizona for example has this website setup for the workforce investment act. In fact, many people get free lpn and rn training through similar programs. Your state probably has something similar. If you plan to seek employment in another state, make sure to contact that state for assistance too.
Even if you’re not unemployed then you may qualify for fafsa or similar government grants (pell grants, etc) that will enable you to attend school for very low, if any cost. The real only catch is that you’ve got to be enrolled in an approved program that is eligible but other than that, it’s easy as pie. Be sure to file early because once the money is used up, it’s gone for the year.
2. Employer Help
If you’re currently employed in the healthcare field and your employer hires CNAs then there’s a good chance they’ll pay for your school. Keep in mind that many of these types of opportunities require you to be employed at the facility for a disclosed period of time after becoming certified. Sometimes they’ll pay the full amount and other times it’s a 40-60% reimbursement or similar structure. Employer help is definitely worth looking into and a very popular source of funding.
3. Miscellaneous Ideas
While this list isn’t exhaustive, there may be other opportunities for you to get assistance. I’d try to contact local and state government agencies, look into work for study programs at local community colleges and definitely ask around to other current CNAs. Sometimes assistance can come from some very unlikely sources including local sponsorships and family to something such as receiving aid for being a veteran. Keep your eyes open and if you’re diligent, you’ll find a way to get through cna training free or very close to free!
