As many CNA programs are short in length, federal grants are not as readily available as for full degree programs. However, health care is a growing field so it may be possible to secure smaller federal-based grants to suit your requirements. Many grant initiatives are tailored directly to minority groups including women, single parents and ethnic minorities. If you fall into any of these categories, you stand a decent chance of acquiring funding for CNA training.
If federal grants are not a feasible option for CNA training, you may be eligible for state grants. Some states offer incentive programs whereby they cover the cost of your training if you agree to take on work placements in underprivileged areas, where diseases may be more prevalent, once your training is complete.
Applicants who want to take the CNA certificate course should also examine private grant programs. Recruitment firms, career advice services and organizations such as the YMCA offer assistance programs for people wishing to gain further education and develop their careers. Many states also run incentive programs to assist students who undertake CNA training recover their tuition costs. Health care firms that tend to the needs of the elderly in nursing homes and care facilities also run schemes that may be useful for CNA training. According to the Free CNA Training Classes website, some state medical boards give grant and scholarships funds to long-term care facilities on a yearly basis which can be used to train potential CNAs.
CNA grants can also be obtained from the community college or medical institute where you wish to study. Candidates should get in touch with their financial aid department to ask whether you are eligible for any education support grants for CNA training. Some institutes will cover your teaching costs if you agree to work for them for a set period once your training is complete. Other colleges provide incentives that help students from low-income backgrounds meet their education fees.