How am I gonna pay for a CNA/PCA program?

CoffeemateCNA · Mar 25, 2010

Have you checked with any of the LTC facilities or hospitals in your area? Sometimes employers are willing to cover the cost of the class if you agree to work for them for 6 months to a year. It may be worth looking into. Good luck!

Ev1987 · Mar 25, 2010

I would put in applications at hospitals and nursing homes for any training openings or oppurtunities. I would also find me a temporary job, (in any field hiring) and save up for the class if the hospitals or nursing homes don't call you back any time soon. I paid $1,400 out of pocket for my class, and it took me forever to save up that money while working as a waitress. Best of luck to you! :redpinkhe

juliaann · Mar 25, 2010

A PCA class shouldn't be too time-consuming, so you can easily work full-time while taking the class and pay as you go, since you said your school will let you make a payment plan. Get a job, save up for a little while, and then take your class, find a PCA job, quit your first job, and there you go!

Alternatively, if you can get a job in a hospital (obviously not as a PCA or CNA yet, but maybe a clerical or support job), many will offer tuition reimbursement as a benefit to full time employees after their probationary period (at my hospital it's 6 months). You have to pay for the class yourself first, and if you get a 'C' or above my hospital will pay you back for your tuition. And then you could transfer to a CNA or PCA position if there's one open!

And, this is probably bad advice, but there's always credit cards. When used appropriately, this is the sort of thing they're there for. Be very, very careful though...

DreamyEyes · Mar 26, 2010

I took out a private loan to cover the cost of mine. I don't really regret it, but the interest rate was pretty high. I payed it off last year.

TrinaCNA · Mar 26, 2010

I took out a private loan to cover the cost of mine. I don't really regret it, but the interest rate was pretty high. I payed it off last year.

Where dii you take out a private loan at?

rdsxfnrn · Mar 26, 2010

try a bank for starters, or a credit union. they do these things on a regular basis. GL

caliotter3 · Mar 26, 2010

The first place to look for a private loan is at your bank. They offer unsecured loans to customers based upon credit worthiness and purpose of loan. Consider joining a credit union if you are not already a member of one. Credit unions traditionally are easier to obtain loans from.