Illinois is home to 267 CNA training programs and over 1,390 healthcare facilities. Our guide currently highlights 32 cities, where we cover all local CNA programs and a selection of healthcare facilities. Explore CNA classes, salary information, and career opportunities to learn more about becoming a CNA in Illinois.
With around 270 state-approved CNA training programs, Illinois maintains a large and well-established nurse aide training network. Programs are widely available across major population centers including Chicago, Aurora, Joliet, Naperville, Rockford, and Springfield, as well as throughout suburban and downstate regions. Currently, approximately 62,420 Certified Nursing Assistants are employed throughout Illinois, reflecting consistent demand for qualified healthcare professionals. CNAs in Illinois earn a median annual wage of $39,510, or about $18.99 per hour, providing a stable entry point into the healthcare workforce.
With a population of over 12.7 million residents, Illinois maintains ongoing demand for skilled healthcare workers across both urban and regional healthcare systems. From major health systems such as Advocate Health, Northwestern Medicine, OSF HealthCare, Rush University System for Health, and University of Chicago Medicine to hundreds of hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies statewide, Certified Nursing Assistants play an essential role in supporting patient care across acute, post-acute, and community-based healthcare settings.
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Major Cities for CNA Careers in Illinois
Explore CNA opportunities in Illinois's largest cities and metropolitan areas.
Before starting your training, it's important to know exactly what Illinois requires to become a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA). Meeting these standards ensures you're eligible to test, be placed on the state registry, and work in approved healthcare settings.
Eligibility
Age requirement: Candidates must be at least 16 years old to enroll in an approved CNA training program in Illinois.
Program enrollment (NATCEP): You must complete an Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH)–approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP). Programs are offered through community colleges, high schools, regional career centers, and licensed long-term care facilities.
Background check: Candidates must meet Illinois background screening requirements. Individuals with disqualifying convictions or substantiated findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation of property are not eligible for placement on the Nurse Aide Registry.
Good standing: Employers must verify active Nurse Aide Registry status prior to employment in licensed healthcare facilities.
Training Hours & Clinicals
Illinois requires a minimum of 120 total hours of nurse aide training. This includes at least 80 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of supervised clinical training in an IDPH-approved nursing facility. The curriculum covers all federally required OBRA topics, including communication, infection control, residents' rights, safety and emergency procedures, basic nursing skills, and personal care.
Before providing any direct resident care, trainees must complete at least 16 hours of instruction in core safety and care topics. In accordance with federal rules, Medicare- or Medicaid-certified nursing facilities may employ nurse aide trainees for up to 120 days while training and testing requirements are completed; beyond this period, individuals must be fully certified and listed on the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry.
Training Skills Evaluation & Written Competency Exam
During training, students must demonstrate competency in 21 performance skills as evaluated by program instructors or approved evaluators. Skills must be performed according to established standards, and students cannot apply for the written exam until successfully passing the performance skills evaluation within their training program.
After completing training and passing the skills evaluation, candidates must pass the Illinois Written Nurse Aide Competency Examination, administered by Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC) under contract with the Illinois Department of Public Health. The exam consists of:
Written test: An 85 multiple-choice question exam covering nurse aide fundamentals such as infection control, safety, residents' rights, communication, and personal care. Candidates have 90 minutes to complete the exam. An oral version may be available for eligible candidates.
Candidates are allowed up to three attempts to pass the written competency examination within 12 months of completing their training program. Candidates who do not pass within the allowed attempts must complete a new IDPH-approved training program before retesting.
Placement on the Registry & Working as a CNA
Once the written exam is successfully passed, your name is added to the Illinois Health Care Worker Registry, maintained by IDPH. SIUC transmits test results electronically to the registry. You may then work as a CNA in nursing homes, hospitals, home health agencies, and other licensed healthcare settings throughout Illinois.
Renewal
Illinois CNA certification must be maintained through continuous employment. To remain active on the registry, CNAs must have performed at least 8 hours of paid nursing-related services under the supervision of a licensed nurse during any 24-month period. Individuals who do not provide nursing services for 24 consecutive months will have their certification become inactive and must recertify by retaking the written competency exam.
Reciprocity
Illinois allows registry-based reciprocity for CNAs certified in other U.S. states. Applicants must hold an active certification in good standing and provide verification that their training and competency evaluation met federal OBRA requirements. Out-of-state CNAs are not required to take the Illinois written competency exam if transferring an active, valid certification.
Costs
Illinois CNA exam fees are set by SIUC and are paid at the time of scheduling. Under federal law, Medicare- or Medicaid-certified nursing facilities must pay for or reimburse nurse aide training and testing costs for individuals they employ or have offered employment to, provided the individual is hired within 12 months of completing training.
Explore CNA classes in Illinois by city. We currently feature 32 cities, each with a full list of CNA training courses, salary details, and selected healthcare facilities.
Looking for free CNA classes and training programs in Illinois? These 10 options are available at no cost through employer sponsorship, state support, or other
financial assistance.
Gateway Regional Medical Center offers a paid Patient Care Technician/CNA development program in partnership with Midwest Career Source that provides training and placement into CNA roles upon successful completion. Training is conducted on site at the hospital.
District U-46 offers a Dual Credit CNA pathway in partnership with Elgin Community College for eligible high school students. Participants earn high school and college credit through this program.
Loyola Medicine offers a paid, employer-sponsored Nursing Assistant Training Program in partnership with Valparaiso University that prepares trainees to sit for the CNA exam. Participants are hired as non-certified assistants, complete a 5-week no-cost training, and transition to Patient Care Technician roles after certification.
Memorial Hospital Belleville offers a seven-week Patient Care Technician development program in partnership with Midwest Career Source that follows CNA training guidelines and prepares participants for CNA roles at Memorial. Classroom sessions are held at Memorial Belleville with clinicals on Saturdays.
Accolade Healthcare operates an internal CNA School serving the Peoria region, with four weeks of lecture/lab followed by a 10‑day clinical phase; applicants are hired first as Auxiliary Aides and then progress into the class.
Six-week CNA program with classroom, lab, and clinical training at a private career school. WIOA funding is available and some cohorts offer free tuition for ages 18–24.
The West campus offers an eight-week Basic Nursing Assistant program with classroom, lab, and clinical training; five sessions run each year at the West and main Malcolm X campuses. Day and evening cohorts are offered.
Accelerated employer-sponsored CNA program with hands-on simulation and clinical training, free tuition and materials, and immediate job placement through partner facilities. Program length ranges from four to eight weeks depending on partner needs.
JWCC’s Nursing Assistant program combines classroom, lab, and supervised clinical experiences with day and evening options offered in Quincy, Pittsfield, and Mount Sterling.
Elgin High School offers Dual Credit CNA and Dual Credit CNA Clinical through a partnership with Elgin Community College. The courses are part of the Health Care Science department.
These 16 programs offer CNA classes online in Illinois, giving you the flexibility to complete the classroom portion remotely. However, all CNA programs also require in-person clinical training, which must be completed at an approved healthcare facility before certification.
Castor Health Institute-Stephenson
✅ State Approved🏫 Career School💻 Online Available💵 Financial Aid Available🤝 Job Placement Help🕒 Evening & Weekend Classes Available
Hybrid CNA course with virtual theory, in-person labs, and Saturday clinicals, with day or evening cohorts at the Freeport site. Tuition is 1400 plus a 150 enrollment fee; required supplies are included.
River Academy offers traditional and hybrid CNA classes with day and evening options; tuition includes books, uniform, equipment, and the state exam fee.
Total Cost: $1,270Total Hours: 116Duration: 7 weeks
Sandburg’s CNA course follows Illinois BNATP guidelines with classroom, skills lab, and supervised clinical experience in long-term care settings. Formats include face-to-face and blended/hybrid options.
CLC’s Nurse Assisting (NUR 110) is a 7-credit course with classroom, lab and clinical training that prepares students with essential patient care skills. Multiple schedules are available, including day, evening, weekend and blended options offered at all CLC campuses.
Basic Nursing Assistant Training is offered in 6 to 8 weeks with traditional in-person and hybrid options combining classroom instruction and clinical experience. The institute notes a one-day 21-skills recertification option for eligible candidates.
Oakton’s Basic Nurse Assistant Training (BNAT) provides classroom and clinical training approved by IDPH in hybrid or face-to-face formats. Students gain hands-on experience and attend a BNAT Career Day featuring multiple employers.
CNA training with hands-on clinical rotations, tutoring, and job placement counseling; hybrid delivery available. Flexible payment plans and partnerships with local healthcare employers.
Total Cost: $1,800Total Hours: 120Duration: 4 weeks
TTI’s Basic Nursing Assistant program consists of classroom theory, lab, and supervised clinical practice at healthcare facilities. The catalog lists 90 theory hours and 45 clinical hours with cohorts offered day, evening, and weekend, and some hybrid lecture delivery.
Total Cost: $1,885Total Hours: 135Duration: 15 weeks
Basic Nursing Assistant Training Program with theory, lab, and clinical. Offers morning, evening, and weekend cohorts with online theory and in-person labs/clinicals.
Nonprofit vocational and literacy center offering a Basic Nurse Assistant Training Program approved by state agencies; classes are hybrid with online theory and in‑person labs/clinical. Program length is about 6 weeks with 135 total hours.
Scott School of Careers lists an Evanston campus and offers a state-approved CNA program with online theory options plus lab/clinical. Typical cohorts run about 6 weeks with day or evening/weekend schedules.
CLC’s 7-credit Nurse Assisting (NUR 110) provides classroom, lab and clinical training to build core CNA skills, with cohorts available days, evenings, weekends and in blended formats across campuses. Program length is typically 2–4 months.
Hybrid 6-week CNA program with Zoom theory on Mondays and Tuesdays, in-person lab on Wednesdays, and clinical rotations at affiliated sites. Approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health and IBHE for private and vocational schools.
CNA training offered in hybrid (online theory with in-person clinicals) and traditional in-person formats, with evening classes and Saturday clinicals. Payment options include grant funding and Veteran GI Bill.
Ánmut Nursing School’s 120 hour Nurse Aide Training Program offers in-person and hybrid options with day and evening schedules; tuition includes textbook, uniform, equipment, lab supplies, clinical site, CPR, and insurance. Job preparation and placement assistance are available.
These 26 programs offer accelerated CNA training in Illinois, typically ranging from 3-5 weeks, with 4-week programs being the most common. Accelerated CNA classes are one of the fastest ways to become a CNA in Illinois, making them ideal if you want to start your healthcare career quickly.
Excelsior Healthcare Academy
✅ State Approved🏫 Career School⚡ Accelerated Program🌙 Evening Classes Available
Four-week Basic Nurse Assistant program covering classroom and clinical skills; morning and evening classes available. Tuition listed with separate fees for books, labs, and exams.
IDPH- and IBHE-approved Basic Nurse Aide Training with day and evening options. The all-inclusive 1400 tuition includes uniform, textbook, background check, blood pressure cuff, and stethoscope.
SCC’s Basic Nursing Assistant diploma provides hands‑on training in patient care skills and can be completed in as few as 5 to 8 weeks. Career services are available for graduates.
River Academy offers traditional and hybrid CNA classes with day and evening options; tuition includes books, uniform, equipment, and the state exam fee.
Total Cost: $1,270Total Hours: 116Duration: 7 weeks
Career Options offers a 5-week Basic Nursing Assistant Training Program totaling 120 hours (80 theory, 40 clinical) with weekly theory/skills lab and clinical rotations. The program details required materials and fees on the program page.
Total Cost: $1,250Total Hours: 120Duration: 5 weeks
The SWIC Nurse Assistant (HRO 105) course is available at the Sam Wolf Granite City Campus with classroom, lab, and clinical training. Multiple sections run each semester, including accelerated options.
Certified Nursing Assistant training preparing frontline caregivers for hospitals, long-term care, and community settings. Program is advertised to run in about 4–5 weeks.
Loyola Medicine offers a paid, employer-sponsored Nursing Assistant Training Program in partnership with Valparaiso University that prepares trainees to sit for the CNA exam. Participants are hired as non-certified assistants, complete a 5-week no-cost training, and transition to Patient Care Technician roles after certification.
The Basic Nursing Assistant Training Program is 120 hours (80 theory, 40 clinical). Tuition is listed with separate required fees for background check and state exam.
Five-week CNA training combining classroom and clinical learning; tuition includes books with required physical, TB test, fingerprinting, and post-course exam.
CNA training with hands-on clinical rotations, tutoring, and job placement counseling; hybrid delivery available. Flexible payment plans and partnerships with local healthcare employers.
Total Cost: $1,800Total Hours: 120Duration: 4 weeks
Wilco’s CNA program includes classroom, lab, and 40 hours of on-site clinical experience; a senior-only accelerated option is also offered. Summer cohorts are available for high school and adult students.
Nirvana Institute’s IDPH- and IBHE-approved CNA program runs 25 days (about 5 weeks) with day or evening theory and weekend clinicals. Tuition is 1600 and includes book and uniform, and job placement assistance is offered.
The CNA program runs 25 days (about 5 weeks) with 1600 tuition that includes the book and uniform. The institute states it assists with job placement and does not accept financial aid.
MTI’s 7-week Basic Nursing Assistant program at the Moline campus includes 136 clock hours combining classroom, lab, and clinical training. Daytime cohorts are offered and graduates receive job placement assistance.
Total Cost: $2,450Total Hours: 136Duration: 7 weeks
Chicago’s Pulse CPR offers an IDPH/IBHE‑approved Basic Nursing Assistant program with classroom, lab, and clinical training to prepare students for the state exam.
IDPH-approved CNA training running 4 to 8 weeks with day and evening options and hands-on clinical experience. PM classes meet Thu–Fri evenings with Saturday clinicals.
MTI’s Basic Nursing Assistant program in Springfield is a 7‑week, 136‑hour course with classroom, lab, and supervised clinical training for entry‑level CNA roles. Job placement assistance is available to qualified graduates.
Total Cost: $2,450Total Hours: 136Duration: 7 weeks
SWIC’s Nurse Assistant (HRO 105) provides classroom, lab, and clinical training at multiple campuses every semester. Offered in 16-week, 8-week, and accelerated 6-week formats.
Nirvana Institute’s IDPH- and IBHE-approved CNA program runs 25 days (about 5 weeks) with day or evening cohorts; tuition includes book and uniform. Upcoming schedules list weekday and weekend clinicals at the West Campus.
Accelerated employer-sponsored CNA program with hands-on simulation and clinical training, free tuition and materials, and immediate job placement through partner facilities. Program length ranges from four to eight weeks depending on partner needs.
State-approved 8-credit CNA program with 90 hours of theory/lab and 50 hours of clinical at area facilities. Offered in 16-week and accelerated 8-week formats.
Total Cost: $1,344Total Hours: 140Duration: 8 weeks
The Basic Nurse Assistant Training Program consists of 120 hours (theory, lab, clinical) with day or evening schedules and occasional weekend sessions. Costs include tuition and application fee, with separate required fees for books, uniform, CPR, background check and state exam.
Total Cost: $1,857Total Hours: 120Duration: 3 weeks
These 36 programs offer evening CNA classes in Illinois, designed for working professionals and those with daytime commitments. Evening classes typically run after 5 PM on weekdays, allowing you to maintain your current schedule while pursuing CNA certification.
Moraine Valley Community College at Blue Island
✅ State Approved🏫 Community College💵 Financial Aid Available🤝 Job Placement Help🌙 Evening Classes Available
📍 Blue Island, 12940 S Western Ave, Illinois 60406
Moraine Valley offers its Basic Nurse Assistant Training at the Education Center at Blue Island with the same curriculum as the main campus: 64 hours classroom, 40 hours lab, and 40 hours clinical. Multiple day and evening sections are scheduled in 8–16 week formats and qualify for Career Connections support.
Total Cost: $1,350Total Hours: 144Duration: 8 weeks
Four-week Basic Nurse Assistant program covering classroom and clinical skills; morning and evening classes available. Tuition listed with separate fees for books, labs, and exams.
Hybrid CNA course with virtual theory, in-person labs, and Saturday clinicals, with day or evening cohorts at the Freeport site. Tuition is 1400 plus a 150 enrollment fee; required supplies are included.
IDPH- and IBHE-approved Basic Nurse Aide Training with day and evening options. The all-inclusive 1400 tuition includes uniform, textbook, background check, blood pressure cuff, and stethoscope.
River Academy offers traditional and hybrid CNA classes with day and evening options; tuition includes books, uniform, equipment, and the state exam fee.
Total Cost: $1,270Total Hours: 116Duration: 7 weeks
CLC’s Nurse Assisting (NUR 110) is a 7-credit course with classroom, lab and clinical training that prepares students with essential patient care skills. Multiple schedules are available, including day, evening, weekend and blended options offered at all CLC campuses.
Moraine Valley’s Basic Nurse Assistant program includes 64 hours of classroom instruction, 40 hours of lab, and 40 hours of clinical experience, with sections offered mornings, afternoons, and evenings. SWEC in Tinley Park hosts BNA classes in addition to the main campus offerings.
The Basic Nursing Assistant Training Program totals 120 hours of theory, lab, and 40 clinical hours. Cohorts run for 8 weeks with morning or evening classes and weekend clinicals.
Total Cost: $1,450Total Hours: 120Duration: 8 weeks
Dominican University offers an 8-week Basic Nurse Assistant Training Program held fully in-person at the Chicago campus in the evenings, with Saturday clinicals. The program provides classroom and clinical education with local hospital partners.
KAMITH’s CNA program includes at least 80 hours of theory/lab plus 40 hours of clinical at local facilities and covers core patient care skills. Day and evening cohorts are offered on a part‑time schedule.
TTI’s Basic Nursing Assistant program consists of classroom theory, lab, and supervised clinical practice at healthcare facilities. The catalog lists 90 theory hours and 45 clinical hours with cohorts offered day, evening, and weekend, and some hybrid lecture delivery.
Total Cost: $1,885Total Hours: 135Duration: 15 weeks
Basic Nursing Assistant Training Program with theory, lab, and clinical. Offers morning, evening, and weekend cohorts with online theory and in-person labs/clinicals.
Nirvana Institute’s IDPH- and IBHE-approved CNA program runs 25 days (about 5 weeks) with day or evening theory and weekend clinicals. Tuition is 1600 and includes book and uniform, and job placement assistance is offered.
Private allied health school offering a Basic Nurse Assistant program with classroom instruction and supervised clinical training. Evening cohorts are available.
Scott School of Careers lists an Evanston campus and offers a state-approved CNA program with online theory options plus lab/clinical. Typical cohorts run about 6 weeks with day or evening/weekend schedules.
Airey Healthcare offers a 6-week CNA program combining classroom instruction with supervised clinical experience. Morning, evening, and weekend cohorts are available.
Chicago’s Pulse CPR offers an IDPH/IBHE‑approved Basic Nursing Assistant program with classroom, lab, and clinical training to prepare students for the state exam.
IDPH-approved CNA training running 4 to 8 weeks with day and evening options and hands-on clinical experience. PM classes meet Thu–Fri evenings with Saturday clinicals.
Nirvana Institute’s IDPH- and IBHE-approved CNA program runs 25 days (about 5 weeks) with day or evening cohorts; tuition includes book and uniform. Upcoming schedules list weekday and weekend clinicals at the West Campus.
CLC’s 7-credit Nurse Assisting (NUR 110) provides classroom, lab and clinical training to build core CNA skills, with cohorts available days, evenings, weekends and in blended formats across campuses. Program length is typically 2–4 months.
Wright College Humboldt Park offers a Basic Nursing Assistant program with classroom, lab, and clinical training for entry-level patient care. Cohorts run 10–16 weeks with day, evening, and weekend options.
The West campus offers an eight-week Basic Nursing Assistant program with classroom, lab, and clinical training; five sessions run each year at the West and main Malcolm X campuses. Day and evening cohorts are offered.
The Basic Nursing Assistant certificate provides classroom, lab, and clinical training for entry-level patient care. Multiple sessions run each year at the main campus and West Side Learning Center with day and evening options.
CNA program runs 8–12 weeks with 120 hours (80 theory, 40 clinical), offering day, evening, and weekend cohorts. Tuition includes textbooks, uniform, and AHA CPR; WIOA grants accepted.
Total Cost: $2,300Total Hours: 120Duration: 8 weeks
Parkland’s one‑semester, six‑credit Nurse Assistant certificate features day and evening classes in modern labs and clinical settings to build core caregiving skills.
State-approved Basic Nurse Assistant program with 126 clock hours over 6–7 weeks, including 60 classroom, 20 lab, 6 CPR, and 40 clinical hours. Multiple cohorts are offered with weekday morning/evening and weekend options.
Total Cost: $1,199Total Hours: 126Duration: 6 weeks
CNA training offered in hybrid (online theory with in-person clinicals) and traditional in-person formats, with evening classes and Saturday clinicals. Payment options include grant funding and Veteran GI Bill.
Ánmut Nursing School’s 120 hour Nurse Aide Training Program offers in-person and hybrid options with day and evening schedules; tuition includes textbook, uniform, equipment, lab supplies, clinical site, CPR, and insurance. Job preparation and placement assistance are available.
JWCC’s Nursing Assistant program combines classroom, lab, and supervised clinical experiences with day and evening options offered in Quincy, Pittsfield, and Mount Sterling.
Harper College’s 6‑credit CNA certificate includes classroom/lab on campus and off‑site clinical experience and is approved by IDPH. Multiple scheduling options are offered at the Palatine campus or Prospect Heights Learning and Career Center.
Total Cost: $1,235Total Hours: 143Duration: 12 weeks
JJC’s NA 101 course provides classroom/lab instruction and supervised clinicals to build patient-care skills, with cohorts offered on weekdays, evenings, and weekends. The program exceeds state minimum hours and NU 400 is MAP grant eligible.
JJC’s NA 101 course provides classroom, lab, and clinical training that exceeds state minimums and leads to the Nurse Assistant Certificate of Completion (NU 400). Multiple day, evening, and weekend cohorts are offered each semester at Main and Romeoville campuses.
The Basic Nurse Assistant Training Program consists of 120 hours (theory, lab, clinical) with day or evening schedules and occasional weekend sessions. Costs include tuition and application fee, with separate required fees for books, uniform, CPR, background check and state exam.
Total Cost: $1,857Total Hours: 120Duration: 3 weeks
These 24 programs offer weekend CNA classes in Illinois, perfect for those who work Monday through Friday. Weekend programs typically meet on Saturdays and/or Sundays, allowing you to complete your CNA training without disrupting your weekday work schedule.
Woodstock Community School Dist. - HS - Judd St
✅ State Approved🏫 High School📅 Weekend Classes Available
District 200 offers a dual-credit Basic Nurse Assistant course with McHenry County College that includes classroom/lab instruction and 40 hours of clinical experience at a local nursing home. Students also earn healthcare provider CPR/BLS during the course.
Hybrid CNA course with virtual theory, in-person labs, and Saturday clinicals, with day or evening cohorts at the Freeport site. Tuition is 1400 plus a 150 enrollment fee; required supplies are included.
River Academy offers traditional and hybrid CNA classes with day and evening options; tuition includes books, uniform, equipment, and the state exam fee.
Total Cost: $1,270Total Hours: 116Duration: 7 weeks
CLC’s Nurse Assisting (NUR 110) is a 7-credit course with classroom, lab and clinical training that prepares students with essential patient care skills. Multiple schedules are available, including day, evening, weekend and blended options offered at all CLC campuses.
Memorial Hospital Belleville offers a seven-week Patient Care Technician development program in partnership with Midwest Career Source that follows CNA training guidelines and prepares participants for CNA roles at Memorial. Classroom sessions are held at Memorial Belleville with clinicals on Saturdays.
The Basic Nursing Assistant Training Program totals 120 hours of theory, lab, and 40 clinical hours. Cohorts run for 8 weeks with morning or evening classes and weekend clinicals.
Total Cost: $1,450Total Hours: 120Duration: 8 weeks
Dominican University offers an 8-week Basic Nurse Assistant Training Program held fully in-person at the Chicago campus in the evenings, with Saturday clinicals. The program provides classroom and clinical education with local hospital partners.
TTI’s Basic Nursing Assistant program consists of classroom theory, lab, and supervised clinical practice at healthcare facilities. The catalog lists 90 theory hours and 45 clinical hours with cohorts offered day, evening, and weekend, and some hybrid lecture delivery.
Total Cost: $1,885Total Hours: 135Duration: 15 weeks
Basic Nursing Assistant Training Program with theory, lab, and clinical. Offers morning, evening, and weekend cohorts with online theory and in-person labs/clinicals.
Nirvana Institute’s IDPH- and IBHE-approved CNA program runs 25 days (about 5 weeks) with day or evening theory and weekend clinicals. Tuition is 1600 and includes book and uniform, and job placement assistance is offered.
Scott School of Careers lists an Evanston campus and offers a state-approved CNA program with online theory options plus lab/clinical. Typical cohorts run about 6 weeks with day or evening/weekend schedules.
Airey Healthcare offers a 6-week CNA program combining classroom instruction with supervised clinical experience. Morning, evening, and weekend cohorts are available.
IDPH-approved CNA training running 4 to 8 weeks with day and evening options and hands-on clinical experience. PM classes meet Thu–Fri evenings with Saturday clinicals.
Nirvana Institute’s IDPH- and IBHE-approved CNA program runs 25 days (about 5 weeks) with day or evening cohorts; tuition includes book and uniform. Upcoming schedules list weekday and weekend clinicals at the West Campus.
Wright College Humboldt Park offers a Basic Nursing Assistant program with classroom, lab, and clinical training for entry-level patient care. Cohorts run 10–16 weeks with day, evening, and weekend options.
CLC’s 7-credit Nurse Assisting (NUR 110) provides classroom, lab and clinical training to build core CNA skills, with cohorts available days, evenings, weekends and in blended formats across campuses. Program length is typically 2–4 months.
CNA program runs 8–12 weeks with 120 hours (80 theory, 40 clinical), offering day, evening, and weekend cohorts. Tuition includes textbooks, uniform, and AHA CPR; WIOA grants accepted.
Total Cost: $2,300Total Hours: 120Duration: 8 weeks
State-approved Basic Nurse Assistant program with 126 clock hours over 6–7 weeks, including 60 classroom, 20 lab, 6 CPR, and 40 clinical hours. Multiple cohorts are offered with weekday morning/evening and weekend options.
Total Cost: $1,199Total Hours: 126Duration: 6 weeks
CNA training offered in hybrid (online theory with in-person clinicals) and traditional in-person formats, with evening classes and Saturday clinicals. Payment options include grant funding and Veteran GI Bill.
Harper College’s 6‑credit CNA certificate includes classroom/lab on campus and off‑site clinical experience and is approved by IDPH. Multiple scheduling options are offered at the Palatine campus or Prospect Heights Learning and Career Center.
Total Cost: $1,235Total Hours: 143Duration: 12 weeks
JJC’s NA 101 course provides classroom/lab instruction and supervised clinicals to build patient-care skills, with cohorts offered on weekdays, evenings, and weekends. The program exceeds state minimum hours and NU 400 is MAP grant eligible.
JJC’s NA 101 course provides classroom, lab, and clinical training that exceeds state minimums and leads to the Nurse Assistant Certificate of Completion (NU 400). Multiple day, evening, and weekend cohorts are offered each semester at Main and Romeoville campuses.
The Basic Nurse Assistant Training Program consists of 120 hours (theory, lab, clinical) with day or evening schedules and occasional weekend sessions. Costs include tuition and application fee, with separate required fees for books, uniform, CPR, background check and state exam.
Total Cost: $1,857Total Hours: 120Duration: 3 weeks
Illinois offers strong employment opportunities for Certified Nursing Assistants, supported by a large and diverse healthcare system across both urban and regional areas. With more than 62,420 CNAs working statewide and approximately 1,397 healthcare facilities, Illinois provides a wide range of employment settings across long-term care, hospital, and home health environments. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the state includes about 674 nursing homes, 195 hospitals, and 528 home health agencies that regularly employ CNAs. While CMS counts may not capture every licensed provider, they illustrate the scale and diversity of CNA job opportunities available throughout Illinois.
Salary Overview
The median annual income for all workers in Illinois is approximately $48,730, or $23.43 per hour. Certified Nursing Assistants in Illinois earn a median annual income of $39,510, or approximately $18.99 per hour. While CNA wages are below the statewide median for all occupations, they provide a reliable entry point into the healthcare field, with opportunities to gain experience and advance into higher-paying roles such as Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Registered Nurse (RN), or other allied health professions.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for CNAs in Illinois remains stable, supported by a large healthcare infrastructure and ongoing demand for long-term and post-acute care services. With 62,420 CNAs currently employed across hundreds of healthcare facilities, consistent hiring needs exist across both metropolitan and regional areas.
Employment opportunities are especially concentrated in major population centers such as the Chicago metropolitan area and surrounding suburbs, as well as regional hubs throughout the state. Major healthcare employers in Illinois—including Advocate Health, Northwestern Medicine, OSF HealthCare, Rush University System for Health, and University of Chicago Medicine—regularly hire CNAs across hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, rehabilitation centers, and home health services. Workforce turnover, as many CNAs advance into nursing and other healthcare careers, contributes to steady entry-level job openings.
Becoming a CNA in Illinois offers a practical and accessible pathway into the healthcare workforce. State-approved training programs can often be completed in a relatively short period, allowing individuals to begin working quickly. With more than 674 nursing homes, a large hospital network, and an extensive home health sector, CNAs in Illinois have access to a wide variety of work environments. The state's community colleges and training providers also make CNA certification a common first step toward advanced nursing education and long-term career growth.
CNA Salaries across Illinois
CNA wages in Illinois vary by region, with higher pay typically found in the Chicago metropolitan area and surrounding suburbs, and lower wages in more rural parts of the state. Factors such as facility type, local demand, and cost of living influence compensation levels. Below is a breakdown of CNA salaries across different regions of Illinois.
Compare CNA salaries across different metropolitan areas and regions in Illinois.
Salary data includes both annual and hourly wages for nursing assistants.
Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Illinois
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Illinois?
In Illinois, CNA programs require a minimum of 120 hours of training, which includes 40 hours of clinical practice. Most students complete their training in 4–12 weeks, depending on whether they choose a full-time, part-time, or accelerated program schedule.
How much does CNA training cost in Illinois?
CNA classes in Illinois generally cost between $800 and $1,500. Some programs may be more expensive at private schools, while community colleges and healthcare providers often offer lower-cost options. Employers may also cover tuition in exchange for a work commitment.
Are there free CNA classes in Illinois?
Yes. Many nursing homes, hospitals, and state workforce programs in Illinois offer free CNA training. These are often employer-sponsored programs where you agree to work for the facility after completing training and certification.
Are online CNA programs available in Illinois?
Several schools in Illinois offer hybrid CNA programs that combine online coursework with in-person clinical training. While theory can often be completed online, state rules require that clinical skills be performed in a supervised, hands-on healthcare setting.
Are accelerated (4-week) CNA programs available in Illinois?
Yes, some schools and healthcare providers in Illinois offer accelerated CNA programs that can be completed in as little as 4 weeks. These programs are intensive and best for students who can commit to full-time study and clinical practice.
How do I become a CNA in Illinois?
To become a CNA in Illinois, you must complete a state-approved training program, pass the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Examination (INACE), and be listed on the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry. The process is overseen by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH).
I’m a CNA in another state. Can I transfer my license to Illinois?
Yes. Illinois allows CNAs certified in other states to transfer their license through reciprocity. This process places you on the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry without retaking training. Learn more in our guide to CNA License Reciprocity in Illinois.
How often do I need to renew my CNA license in Illinois?
CNAs in Illinois must renew their certification every 24 months. To remain active on the registry, you must work at least one documented day (8 consecutive hours) of paid employment in an approved healthcare setting during that period. See our CNA License & Registration page for renewal details.
How can I check if my CNA license is active in Illinois?
You can verify your status on the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry online. For step-by-step instructions, visit our guide on CNA License & Registration in Illinois.
How much do CNAs earn in Illinois?
The median CNA salary in Illinois is $39,510 per year, or about $18.99 per hour. Pay can vary by region, employer, and years of experience. Many CNAs in Illinois also use the role as a stepping stone to LPN or RN careers.
Where do CNAs work in Illinois?
Certified Nursing Assistants in Illinois work in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, assisted living facilities, and home health agencies. Opportunities are widely available across both urban and rural areas.
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