Too expensive for CNA class?

texasRN_14 · May 5, 2009

I personally think that is WAY too expensive. I paid $700 for my class in Dallas, TX and I felt even that was high. Is there a community college or something close by? A lot of CCs offer CNA training at low prices

care_baer · May 5, 2009

Wow, I think that's insane, but I don't live in California. I think my class was about $700 and then maybe $200 in class related materials.

caliotter3 · May 5, 2009

That is $1500 more than the entire cost for an LVN program where I used to live. Look at community colleges, community outreach classes, and adult occupational centers for the best bargain in classes such as CNA. There are also long term care facilities that give classes that are usually free or near free and they offer jobs when you get your certificate.

rn/writer, RN · May 5, 2009

Contact community and technical colleges in your area. Also, try calling some of the larger nursing homes. I don't live near you, but my daughter was able to get paid training (minimum wage for the three weeks of classes) where we live, and I have heard of other places offering that, as well. Or they might help to subsidize your training in exchange for your agreement to work for them for six months or a year.

I would NOT spend $3500 to become a CNA. Even if you made $15/hr, you would have to work forever to pay for it, and many CNA's make a lot less.

It would be wonderful if you could find a place that offered paid training, but even if you can't, you should be able to find something far less expensive.

Best wishes.

caliotter3 · May 5, 2009

I just did an internet search and found this link: http://www.cde.ca.gov/ci/ct/rp/cna.asp

morte, LPN, LVN · May 5, 2009

SOMEONE is making out like a bandit.......yes, keep looking!

KimberlyRN89, BSN, RN · May 6, 2009

Just wanted to chime in & say sometimes community colleges aren't the cheapest around..I speak from experience! My suggestion to you is to go to your state board of nursing & look at approved CNA programs in your area. My BON had the prices for many of them listed on the website(but call to verify b/c the info could be outdated). Best of luck to you :)

atran407 · May 6, 2009

Thank you all for your input! That really helped and I'm going to keep searching. :)

windmill182 · May 6, 2009

I live in Seattle so Im also on the west coast and know how expensive things can get. I found a state certified private program that is run by an RN. She charges $550, and you only have to pay for your uniform and belt. The books and everything else are provided. + Shes a super sweet lady. I bet you can find something if you keep looking.

pagandeva2000, LPN · May 6, 2009

What about the Red Cross? I hear they also give CNA classes. These days, anything more than $1000 is too much and even $1000 is an exaggerated price.

HeartsOpenWide, RN · May 6, 2009

Yea, way too much. At my JC (I am in California too so these prices would be the same for you too) the basic patient care class which you take in order to become a CNA is way cheaper than that:

(Total $449-499)

$ 120 tuition

$ 44.00 Livescan fingerprint processing

$15.00 Dept of Health Services Application Fee

$50-100.00 Uniform, shoes, and watch

$20.00 Varicella titer

$120.00 Hepatitis immunization (optional)

$80.00 NATAP certification exam

This does not include books but it is only one class so it could not be that much...

for $3,500 you could get your ASN/ADN!:

Cost of the Program (approximately $3,615 total):

a. Enrollment fee ($20/unit) - $1,200

b. Required textbooks for the 4 semesters will cost approximately $1,000 - $1,500.

c. Students are required to have uniforms, white shoes and a watch with second display. See dress

code in student handbook for specifics. Approximate cost is $100-150.

d. Cost of fingerprinting/Background checks approximately $65.

e. Immunizations for students who do not have the required immunity to several communicable

diseases may cost over $220. Most are available through the Student Health Clinic for reduced

fees or at no cost to the student.

f. CPR certification costs about $50.

g. The school pin (optional) for graduation costs approximately $60-$130.

h. Licensure application costs about $300.

Go to a nursing home, many will train you on the job to be a CNA.