15 Free CNA Training Programs in New York - Full Tuition Waiver
Loretto Programs Offered:CNA Training Program Location:700 E Brighton Ave, Syracuse, NY 13205; 3 St Anthony St, Auburn, NY 13021 Rating:
Loretto Healthcare offers a comprehensive Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) training program at no cost to participants, with locations in both Syracuse and Auburn, New York. This innovative program combines professional education with immediate employment opportunities, allowing participants to earn wages while pursuing their certification.
The five-week curriculum is structured to provide a thorough foundation in healthcare services. During the first three weeks, students engage in classroom instruction covering essential topics including basic nursing procedures, personal care techniques, mental health awareness, and residents' rights. The program emphasizes understanding cognitive impairment care and fundamental restorative services, ensuring students develop a well-rounded skill set.
Clinical training occurs during the fourth week, when students apply their theoretical knowledge in actual healthcare settings at Loretto facilities. Working alongside experienced staff members, trainees gain practical experience in resident care and medical support services. The final week focuses on comprehensive exam preparation, featuring mock assessments and skill refinement for the New York State Nurse Aide Examination.
A distinctive feature of Loretto's program is its integrated employment model. Participants begin earning income immediately upon acceptance through initial placement as Support Service Workers. This arrangement continues throughout the training period, with Loretto covering all state examination fees to support career advancement.
The program operates eight cycles annually, offering multiple entry points for prospective students. Training locations are strategically positioned for accessibility, with the Syracuse campus located on public transportation routes at Loretto Health & Rehabilitation, and a second location at The Commons on St. Anthony in Auburn.
No prior healthcare experience is required for enrollment; the primary qualification is a dedication to providing quality patient care. Upon successful completion of the state examination, which includes both written and clinical components, graduates receive New York State certification as Nursing Assistants, enabling them to begin their healthcare careers immediately.
Long Island State Veterans Home Programs Offered:Certified Nursing Assistant Training Program Location:100 Patriots Road Stony Brook, NY 11790 Rating:
The Long Island State Veterans Home (LISVH) provides comprehensive CNA training through its no-cost certification program, offering a pathway to a rewarding career in healthcare while serving United States veterans.
The intensive five-week program combines theoretical classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience, preparing candidates for the New York State Nursing Home Nurse Aide Competency Examination administered by Prometric. Students train directly with experienced nursing staff in a real healthcare environment, gaining practical skills while understanding the unique demands of nursing home care. Upon successful completion of the program and certification exam, graduates participate in a formal recognition ceremony.
LISVH, located on the SUNY Stony Brook Campus in Suffolk County, differentiates itself through its commitment to both patient care and employee development. Certified graduates may receive employment offers at the facility, joining a dedicated team serving military veterans. The institution's affiliation with New York State enables it to offer an exceptional benefits package to both full-time and part-time employees.
The comprehensive benefits program includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with paid time off and holiday benefits. Professional development opportunities include tuition assistance and reimbursement programs, particularly beneficial for CNAs pursuing nursing degrees. Additional benefits encompass on-campus childcare services, retirement planning resources, and access to financial education seminars.
As an integral part of the healthcare team, CNAs at LISVH contribute directly to the well-being of American veterans while building a stable career foundation. The program's structured approach ensures graduates possess both the technical competencies for certification and the practical skills needed for long-term success in healthcare delivery.
Monroe Community Hospital Programs Offered:Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Training Program Location:435 East Henrietta Road Rochester, NY 14620 Rating:
Monroe Community Hospital (MCH) provides a unique opportunity for aspiring healthcare professionals through its fully funded Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training initiative.
This comprehensive six-week free program combines theoretical education with practical experience, all while participants earn a salary as Monroe County employees.
The curriculum encompasses intensive classroom instruction, laboratory practice, interactive group sessions, and direct resident care experience. Students gain hands-on experience in patient care units, developing essential clinical skills in a real healthcare environment. MCH not only covers all training costs but also sponsors the New York State Prometric Written and Clinical Skills Examinations required for certification.
Program participants receive full Monroe County employee benefits, including comprehensive health and dental coverage, paid time off, access to the Employee Assistance Program, New York State Pension enrollment, and tuition assistance opportunities. The program operates on a full-time schedule, with initial training hours from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM for the first week, transitioning to 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM thereafter.
Training cohorts, limited to 24 students per class, begin every 10-12 weeks. The curriculum adheres to New York State Department of Health requirements, covering essential skills such as vital sign monitoring, mobility assistance, personal care support, and quality of life enhancement for residents. Classes are conducted on-site at MCH by experienced staff members.
The selection process involves four key steps: submitting an application for the Nursing Assistant Trainee position, completing an interview, passing required medical screenings, and receiving program acceptance.
MCH, a certified residential healthcare facility operated by Monroe County, specializes in long-term care for individuals with complex medical needs, serving a diverse population that includes a significant number of residents under 65.
Gurwin Healthcare System Programs Offered:Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Training Program Location:68 Hauppauge Road Commack, NY 11725 Rating:
The Gurwin Healthcare System in Commack, NY, offers a comprehensive, fully-funded Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training program at its nationally recognized skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility. The program, structured over three weeks, combines two weeks of classroom instruction with one week of practical clinical training at the Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center—an institution distinguished by Newsweek as one of America's Best Nursing Homes.
Training sessions operate Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:15 PM at the Gurwin Healthcare Campus on Hauppauge Road. Upon program completion, participants take their New York State CNA certification examinations, both written and clinical, conveniently on-site at the facility.
The program presents a distinctive opportunity for aspiring healthcare professionals. Participants receive not only free tuition and educational materials but also earn a salary during their training period. Successfully certified CNAs may join the Gurwin care team, with the potential to earn performance bonuses after three months of employment.
Established in 1988, Gurwin Healthcare System operates as a non-profit organization committed to excellence in senior care. The institution has consistently evolved to meet the expanding healthcare needs of Long Island's aging population, guided by core values of compassion, quality care, and dedication. The organization maintains a family-centered approach, encouraging staff to treat residents with the same consideration they would show their own family members.
Gurwin's growth reflects its responsive approach to community needs, continuously developing and implementing new services for older adults while maintaining its founding principles of determination, faith, and exceptional care standards.
Mather Hospital Programs Offered:Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Training Program Location:75 North Country Road Port Jefferson, NY 11777 Rating:
Mather Hospital has launched a pioneering Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training initiative that combines professional education with immediate employment opportunities. This comprehensive program addresses the growing healthcare workforce shortage while creating accessible career pathways in medical care.
The Mather Assistant Nurse Institute provides a free, four-week training program based on American Red Cross curriculum. Unlike traditional online courses, this program offers hands-on, in-person instruction at the hospital's facilities. Participants receive compensation during training as Safety Care Associates, a newly created position, while completing their required 30 clinical hours in the hospital's Transitional Care Unit.
According to Marie Mulligan, PhD, RN, Chief Nursing Officer and Vice President for Nursing at Mather Hospital, the current healthcare staffing shortage extends beyond regional boundaries, representing a global challenge in healthcare delivery. The program specifically targets the critical need for support staff who are essential to maintaining high-quality patient care standards.
Program graduates who successfully obtain New York State CNA certification are guaranteed employment at Mather Hospital, complete with benefits and opportunities for career advancement. Training is conducted by the hospital's clinical nurse educators, who are certified American Red Cross CNA program instructors, ensuring high educational standards and practical expertise.
Mather Hospital, a 248-bed non-profit community teaching institution, has established itself as a leader in healthcare excellence, evidenced by two Magnet® recognitions from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). This prestigious designation acknowledges the hospital's commitment to superior patient care, nursing excellence, and innovative professional practices. The institution maintains a patient-centered approach, emphasizing compassionate care delivery that mirrors the standard of treatment staff would desire for their own family members.
Oneida Health Programs Offered:Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) Program Location:321 Genesee St Oneida, NY 13421 Rating:
Oneida Health provides a comprehensive, no-cost Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training program designed to launch healthcare careers. This 75-hour program combines theoretical instruction with practical experience, offering participants a direct pathway into the healthcare industry.
The program structure consists of classroom education led by licensed registered nurses, followed by hands-on clinical experience in local long-term care facilities. Participants benefit from state-of-the-art training facilities and modern medical equipment. The curriculum includes CPR and AED certification, valid for two years.
What distinguishes this program is its "earn while you learn" approach. Prior to formal training, candidates can work as Unit Helpers, gaining valuable exposure to healthcare settings while earning income. During this period, they assist with basic tasks such as stocking supplies, bed preparation, and supporting clinical staff.
Upon completion of the 75-hour training, graduates are eligible to take the State Competency Test, which includes both written and practical components administered by Pearson Vue. Successful completion leads to CNA certification, qualifying graduates for positions in various healthcare settings including nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, hospice facilities, and psychiatric hospitals.
The program curriculum follows New York State Nursing Home Nurse Aide Training Program guidelines, covering essential areas such as basic nursing skills, personal care, mental health services, care for cognitively impaired residents, restorative services, and residents' rights. Additional focus areas include infection control, vital signs monitoring, range of motion exercises, workplace communication, and safety protocols.
Eligibility requirements include a high school diploma or GED and passing a criminal background check. The program is offered quarterly, contingent upon sufficient enrollment. Successful graduates are guaranteed job placement at Oneida Health's Extended Care Facility with an increased pay rate.
Career advancement opportunities extend beyond the CNA certification. Oneida Health supports continuing education through tuition reimbursement programs, offering up to $5,250 per semester at 50% reimbursement. Additional educational funding is available through the Oneida Health Foundation's scholarship program, supporting career progression to Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Registered Nurse (RN), or Nurse Practitioner (NP) roles.
This initiative is part of Oneida Health's broader healthcare network, which encompasses a 101-bed acute care hospital, a 160-bed extended-care and rehabilitation facility, and numerous primary and specialty care practices. The organization's investment in CNA training reflects its commitment to addressing the high demand for healthcare professionals while maintaining quality patient care across its network.
MMCC Programs Offered:Certified Nursing Assistant Program (CNA) Location:3450 Dekalb Ave, Bronx, NY 10467 Rating:
MMCC, serving Manhattan and the Bronx, presents a free Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training program through Lehman College beginning Fall 2024. This comprehensive initiative targets young adults aged 18-24 who possess a high school diploma, GED, or HSE certification.
The program provides extensive benefits including complete tuition coverage, required textbooks, examination fees, and CPR certification at no cost. Participants receive daily transportation assistance via Metrocards and uniform purchase vouchers upon training completion. Additional incentives include cash rewards and access to supportive services.
Enrollment requires attendance at an orientation session, completion of registration documentation, and medical clearance before program conclusion. Through partnerships with Lehman College, graduates gain access to advanced healthcare training opportunities, higher education pathways, and scholarship possibilities.
As a cornerstone community organization, MMCC annually serves over 35,000 residents across various age groups, from preschoolers to seniors. The institution's diverse programming encompasses support services, educational initiatives, enrichment activities, and recreational opportunities, all designed to enhance participants' potential for productive and fulfilling lives.
Bellhaven Center Programs Offered:Certified Nursing Assistant Program (CNA) Location:110 Beaver Dam Road Brookhaven, New York 11719 Rating:
Bellhaven Center for Rehabilitation & Nursing Care is offering a comprehensive, no-cost Nurse Aide Certification Course, designed to prepare individuals for careers in healthcare. This 100-hour program combines classroom instruction with practical training, all conducted at their facility on Long Island's South Shore near Bellport village.
The program's integrated approach includes on-site Prometric testing capabilities for both written and skills assessments, streamlining the certification process. All educational materials and certification fees are covered by the institution, with participants only responsible for providing their own uniform scrubs. Upon successful completion of the New York State Certification exam, graduates are offered Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) positions at Bellhaven Center.
Eligibility requirements include: minimum age of 18, complete COVID-19 vaccination status prior to program commencement, legal authorization to work in the United States, and willingness to undergo a New York State Department of Health criminal background check. While criminal history does not automatically disqualify candidates, the program specifically targets individuals committed to joining Bellhaven's healthcare team post-certification.
Bellhaven Center, established over thirty years ago, operates a 240-bed skilled nursing facility offering diverse healthcare services, including short-term rehabilitation, sub-acute medical care, post-surgical recovery, hospice care, and specialized dementia and Alzheimer's services. The facility's ten-acre campus features landscaped grounds and outdoor spaces designed to enhance resident comfort and well-being.
The institution maintains high standards of care through its experienced staff and comprehensive service approach, reflecting its long-standing commitment to healthcare excellence in the community.
Westchester EOC Programs Offered:Certified Nurse Aide/Home Health Aide Training Location:26 South Broadway Yonkers, NY 10701 Rating:
Westchester EOC provides a comprehensive dual certification program combining Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) and Home Health Aide (HHA) training. This 14-week curriculum prepares participants for the New York State certification examination and registration with the State Home Care Registry.
The program curriculum encompasses essential healthcare fundamentals, including medical terminology, body system functions, and patient care protocols. Students receive training in elderly and homebound care, as well as institutional care procedures for nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and hospitals. Core coursework includes anatomy and physiology, patient care fundamentals, nutrition, CPR, human relations, and supervised clinical rotations. Two mandatory clinical work experiences provide hands-on training in healthcare settings.
Enrollment requirements include a high school diploma or HSE, successful completion of the TABE test, and passing a physical examination with drug screening. Candidates must purchase and wear designated scrub uniforms from the first class day. Additional requirements include New York State clearance and fingerprinting for employment eligibility.
Classes are offered in both daytime and evening schedules to accommodate diverse schedules.
Enrollment eligibility is based on State University of New York income and educational criteria.
The Rochester Educational Opportunity Center (REOC) provides comprehensive Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training at no cost to qualified candidates. This professional preparation program combines theoretical coursework, hands-on laboratory experience, and supervised clinical practice.
CNAs serve as essential healthcare team members, collaborating with nurses to deliver patient care in various medical settings. Upon completing the program requirements and passing the New York State Prometric Examination, graduates earn their official certification and are qualified to begin their healthcare careers.
Many successful graduates leverage this certification as a foundation for advancing their education in nursing and other healthcare professions.
The program maintains strict eligibility requirements, including specific age, educational background, and income qualifications that prospective students must satisfy before enrollment.
The Capital District Educational Opportunity Center provides a comprehensive, no-cost Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training program designed to prepare individuals for healthcare careers.
This state-approved curriculum combines classroom instruction with supervised clinical experiences, equipping students with essential healthcare competencies. The program focuses on fundamental patient care skills, including vital sign monitoring, personal care assistance, and medical documentation. Students receive thorough training in geriatric care, human anatomy, nutrition management, and healthcare communication protocols.
Program graduates typically secure positions in diverse healthcare settings, including skilled nursing facilities, residential care homes, acute care hospitals, and outpatient clinics. The growing healthcare sector continues to offer stable employment opportunities for certified nursing assistants.
Eligibility Requirements:
New York State residency
Minimum age of 16 and non-enrollment in high school
Compliance with SUNY's academic and financial eligibility criteria
The Buffalo Educational Opportunity Center presents a comprehensive, paid Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training program that prepares individuals for essential healthcare roles. This professional certification program equips participants with fundamental skills needed in healthcare facilities, particularly in long-term care and skilled nursing environments.
Training Components:
The curriculum combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience, focusing on essential healthcare competencies including:
Clinical Skills:
Patient mobility and positioning techniques
Vital sign measurement and documentation
Personal hygiene and grooming assistance
Basic medical procedures and safety protocols
Catheter maintenance and wound care
Range of motion exercises
Safe transfer techniques
Proper use of medical restraints
Professional Development:
Healthcare communication
Patient rights and dignity
Mental health awareness
Cognitive impairment care
Basic restorative care
Professional ethics
Customer service excellence
Career preparation and soft skills
Participants receive practical training in a supervised clinical setting, ensuring competency in all required skills while maintaining the highest standards of patient care and safety.
Enrollment in the Buffalo Educational Opportunity Center requires meeting specific eligibility criteria and submitting supporting documentation for verification.
Long Island Educational Opportunity Center Programs Offered:Certified Nurse Assistant Training Program Location:2350 NY-110, Farmingdale, NY 11735 - Hooper Hall Rating:
The Long Island Educational Opportunity Center's Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Training Program offers comprehensive, tuition-free healthcare education. This state-approved program equips students with essential skills for entry-level healthcare positions across various settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health services.
The program structure integrates classroom learning with hands-on clinical experience. Students develop core competencies in patient care, starting with fundamental healthcare concepts and progressing to advanced clinical skills. The curriculum encompasses vital areas such as infection control protocols, medical terminology, and basic anatomy and physiology.
Key components of the training include practical nursing procedures, vital signs monitoring, and assistance with daily living activities. Students learn essential communication techniques for effective interaction with patients, families, and healthcare teams. The program also covers critical aspects of patient care, including nutrition management, cognitive health support, and emergency response through CPR and Basic Life Support certification.
Clinical rotations form an integral part of the training, providing supervised practical experience in actual healthcare environments. This hands-on component allows students to apply their theoretical knowledge while developing professional competencies. The program culminates in comprehensive preparation for the New York State CNA certification examination.
Prospective students must satisfy specific eligibility criteria regarding age, educational background, and residency status before enrollment.
The SUNY Bronx EOC Programs Offered:Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Training Program Location:2467 Jerome Ave, Bronx, NY 10468, United States Rating:
The SUNY Bronx Educational Opportunity Center provides a comprehensive, tuition-free Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training program designed to launch healthcare careers. This intensive seven to eight-week curriculum operates weekdays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with scheduling subject to modification.
The program equips students with essential healthcare competencies, including patient assessment, vital sign monitoring, and fundamental nursing procedures. Participants master crucial professional skills such as clinical communication, team collaboration, and medical documentation. The curriculum encompasses core healthcare concepts, including basic anatomy, medical terminology, safety protocols, and patient rights.
Upon successful completion, graduates are prepared to take the New York State CNA certification examination. This certification enables them to pursue employment opportunities in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and long-term care facilities.
Eligibility for enrollment requires meeting specific age, income, and residency criteria.
The Manhattan Educational Opportunity Center at SUNY provides a comprehensive, tuition-free Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training program. This career-focused initiative prepares students to deliver essential healthcare services in various medical settings.
The program targets compassionate individuals with strong interpersonal skills who aspire to work directly with patients. Through structured coursework and hands-on training, participants learn to provide quality care in nursing homes and rehabilitation facilities under licensed medical professionals' supervision. Upon completion, students are equipped to take the New York State Certified Nurse Aide examination and receive CPR certification.
Eligible candidates must satisfy specific age, income, and New York residency criteria to participate in this professional healthcare training opportunity.
