CNA Classes & Programs in Aurora, Illinois
Get Information from CNA Programs in Aurora and Nearby
In Aurora, 4 state-approved CNA classes are available to help individuals begin their journey toward becoming certified nursing assistants in Illinois. As part of the greater Chicago metropolitan area, Aurora provides accessible options for those looking to enter healthcare quickly or pursue a stable career path through hands-on CNA training programs.
Aurora’s CNA programs cover essential skills required for patient care and prepare graduates to meet certification standards in Illinois. In the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin region—which includes Aurora—CNAs earn around $41,600 annually according to recent data. Local options focus on practical instruction that enables students to move confidently into clinical roles after completion of their courses.
CNA classes in Aurora support career readiness by combining classroom learning with real-world experiences. Graduates can expect opportunities with area employers who value well-prepared candidates holding state-recognized credentials.
Quick Facts About Aurora
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Population181,405Residents
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CNA Programs4State-approved Programs
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Median Income$85,943Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$20.00Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$41,600Median Annual Salary
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Facilities17CMS Healthcare Facilities8 Nursing Homes • 2 Hospitals • 7 Home Health Agencies
Get Information from CNA Programs in Aurora and Nearby
Schools in Aurora and nearby are actively seeking qualified students. Fill out one quick form below to receive information directly from multiple accredited CNA programs.
You'll receive information about:
- Upcoming start dates & schedules
- Tuition costs & financial aid options
- Class locations & formats
- Program details & requirements
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Browse CNA Classes in Aurora
Aurora offers 4 CNA training programs designed to qualify students for Illinois CNA certification through focused coursework and clinical experience. These programs equip participants with practical skills needed for success on the state exam and readiness for employment, where CNAs are needed locally. Options support career entry into healthcare environments that value certified nursing assistants from accredited programs.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: not available in Aurora, but free classes are available in other cities throughout Illinois.
Accelerated programs: not available in Aurora but are offered in other cities throughout Illinois.
Online programs not available in Aurora but are offered in other cities throughout Illinois.
Waubonsee Community College
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Illinois Math & Science Academy
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Aurora University School of Nursing
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West Aurora High School
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CNA Employment Opportunities in Aurora
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$41,600Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$20.00Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs41,870CNA Positions
In the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin region, approximately 41,870 certified nursing assistants are employed across hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies. This regional workforce supports Aurora’s growing population and neighboring communities by meeting ongoing demand for qualified CNAs throughout northern Illinois. CNA jobs in Aurora are available in a variety of healthcare settings.
CNA salary in Aurora aligns with regional compensation. The median CNA salary in this metro area is around $41,600 per year or $20 per hour based on BLS OEWS (May 2023), exceeding the current statewide median of $39,510. These salary levels reflect rates found within large metropolitan regions such as the one surrounding Aurora.
Aurora offers employment opportunities at notable CMS-certified providers such as Alden Courts of Waterford (a 60-bed nursing facility), Jennings Terrace (nonprofit with 60 beds), Avantara Aurora (87 beds), Copley Memorial Hospital (Rush Copley Medical Center), Presence Mercy Medical Center (both acute care hospitals), and Resilience Home Health LLC—a highly rated agency serving patients at home. With eight local nursing homes and two hospitals reported by CMS as of July 2025, Aurora supports varied workplace settings for new and experienced CNAs alike.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Ready to get certified and start your CNA career in Aurora? Fill out one quick form to get program details and start dates from accredited schools in your area.
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Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Aurora? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Chicago, Schaumburg, Arlington Heights, Bolingbrook, and Palatine, or browse the Illinois CNA programs page for more options.
Working in Other States
Planning to move or gain experience working in other states? Use our reciprocity guide to transfer your existing CNA license across states.
Working Through Agencies or as a Travel CNA
If you're already certified and would like to work through an agency or work as a travel CNA, browse here our directory of CNA agencies or simply fill out this short form to get matched with 3 personalized CNA agencies that can help you land your next job.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Aurora (8 facilities)
8 nursing homes in Aurora providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
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Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Aurora (2 facilities)
2 hospitals in Aurora offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
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Presence Mercy Medical Center
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Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Aurora (7 facilities)
7 home health agencies in Aurora providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
Resilience Home Health, Llc
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Visiting Nurse Assocation Of Fox Valley
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Dmj Home Health Services, Inc
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Ecs Health Care Agency And Home Health Services
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After Care Home Health, Inc
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Requirements to Work as a CNA in Aurora, IL
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Aurora, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by Illinois. These include completing an Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH)–approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP), passing the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Examination administered by Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC), and being listed on the Illinois Health Care Worker Registry.
- At least 120 total hours of training (80 classroom and skills lab hours, 40 supervised clinical hours in a licensed long-term care facility)
- Completion of 16 hours of required instruction before any direct resident contact
- Background screening per Illinois requirements
- Unique testing structure: Skills are evaluated by instructors during training; only the written knowledge test is administered by the state (85 multiple-choice questions, 90 minutes, 80% minimum score)
- Up to three attempts to pass the written exam within two years of completing training before retraining is required
- Placement on the Illinois Health Care Worker Registry maintained by IDPH
Once certified, you can work in nursing homes, hospitals, home health agencies, and other licensed healthcare settings throughout Aurora and across Illinois. CNAs must complete at least 8 hours of paid nursing work within 24 months to maintain active certification.
Already certified in another state? Illinois offers registry-based reciprocity for out-of-state CNAs who hold active certification in good standing and meet federal OBRA training standards. Additional documentation may be required. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in Illinois guide.
For complete details on training programs, testing procedures, renewal requirements, and maintaining active registry status, see our comprehensive CNA License & Registration in Illinois guide.
Career Growth & Advancement
Many CNAs use their experience as a stepping stone toward advanced healthcare careers:
- Specialized certifications (e.g., dementia care, medication aide)
- Promotion into shift supervisor or training coordinator roles
- Bridge programs to become an LPN or RN
- Opportunities in healthcare administration or education
Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Aurora
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Aurora?
Most CNA programs in Aurora can be completed in 4–12 weeks, depending on whether you choose a traditional, accelerated, or weekend schedule.
How much does CNA training cost in Aurora?
Tuition typically ranges from $800–$1,500, though may be higher depending on the program. Some schools and healthcare employers may cover the cost or reimburse you after hiring.
Are there free CNA classes in Aurora?
Some hospitals, nursing homes, and workforce programs may offer free CNA training in exchange for a work commitment.
Are there online CNA training options available in Aurora?
Several schools offer hybrid options with online coursework and in-person clinical training at local healthcare facilities.
Are there any 4-weeks CNA classes in Aurora?
Yes, some schools in Aurora or nearby areas may offer accelerated CNA programs that can be completed in as little as 4 weeks, depending on class schedules and clinical requirements.
Which nearby cities are there for CNA classes and job opportunities?
Near Aurora there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Chicago, Schaumburg, Arlington Heights, Bolingbrook, and Palatine. You can also look at the Illinois state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the Illinois CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in Illinois, you must be added to the official state registry. See our Illinois CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Aurora?
CNAs in Aurora are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities. Many also use their CNA experience as a stepping stone to LPN or RN careers.
Information Accuracy: Requirements, salary data, and other information are carefully compiled and based on the latest available sources, but may change. Please verify with official sources before making decisions. If you spot a mistake, let us know.