CNA Classes & Programs in Aurora, Illinois
4 state-approved CNA programs in Aurora. Free, 4-week and online programs are offered in other Illinois cities.
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CNA training in Aurora
- Programs
- 4
- state-approved
- Median CNA pay
- $41,600
- $20.00 an hour
- CNA jobs
- 41,870
- in the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin region
- Healthcare facilities
- 17
- 8 nursing homes, 2 hospitals and 7 home health agencies
- Population
- 181,405
- residents
Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS (July 2025).
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What brings you here?
Free to use. No obligation to enroll. Compare multiple programs. We may earn a fee when you request information from schools.
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.
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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.
Program Types in Aurora
| Type | In Aurora | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Free or employer-paid | Not in Aurora | See other Illinois cities → |
| 4-week (accelerated) | Not in Aurora | See other Illinois cities → |
| Online or hybrid | Not in Aurora | See other Illinois cities → |
| Evening or weekend | Not in Aurora | See other Illinois cities → |
A program can appear under more than one type. Counts come from each program's published details.
All 4 CNA programs in Aurora
Lowest published cost first.
Waubonsee Community College
Cost$983Hours120Weeks–
- Address
- 2060 Ogden Avenue, Aurora, IL 60504
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (630) 585-7900
Waubonsee’s Basic Nurse Assistant Training is a one‑semester certificate with classroom/lab instruction and hands‑on clinicals in long‑term care facilities. The program includes a BLS CPR component and follows an 80‑hour theory and 40‑hour clinical structure.
Visit websiteAurora University School of Nursing
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 1410 Marsellaise Place, Aurora, IL 60506
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (630) 892-6431
Aurora University School of Nursing is a state-approved CNA training provider. Contact them directly for program details and enrollment information.
Visit websiteIllinois Math & Science Academy
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 1500 Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL 60506
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (630) 907-5000
Illinois Math & Science Academy is a state-approved CNA training provider. Contact them directly for program details and enrollment information.
Visit websiteWest Aurora High School
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 1201 West New York Street, Aurora, IL 60506
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (630) 301-5600
West Aurora High School is a state-approved CNA training provider. Contact them directly for program details and enrollment information.
Visit websiteCost, hours and weeks are each school's published figures, so confirm them with the school. A dash means the school has not published it.
Not sure which of the 4 programs fits you?
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Explore CNA Programs in Other Cities
Nearby cities
- Glen Ellyn1 program
- Chicago30 programs
- Schaumburg1 program
- Arlington Heights1 program
- Bolingbrook3 programs
Major Illinois cities
All Illinois cities with CNA programs →CNA Employment Opportunities in Aurora
| Median annual pay | $41,600 |
|---|---|
| Median hourly pay | $20.00 |
| CNA jobs in the region | 41,870 |
| Salary region | Chicago-Naperville-Elgin |
Source: BLS OEWS (May 2023), median wages for nursing assistants.
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.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Aurora (8 facilities)
8 nursing homes in Aurora providing CNA employment opportunities. Showing top 5 facilities ranked by CNA hours per resident per day (as provided by official data). Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
| Nursing home | Beds | CNA hrs/day |
|---|---|---|
| Alden Courts Of Waterford1991 Randi Drive(630) 851-1466Map | 60 | 2.2 |
| Jennings Terrace275 South Lasalle(630) 897-6947Map | 60 | 2.2 |
| Avantara Aurora400 West Sullivan Road(630) 859-3700Map | 87 | 1.9 |
| Alden Of Waterford2021 Randi Drive(630) 851-7266Map | 99 | 1.9 |
| Highlight Healthcare Of Aurora1017 West Galena Boulevard(630) 897-3100Map | 68 | 1.8 |
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Aurora (2 facilities)
2 hospitals in Aurora offering CNA employment opportunities. Showing top 2 facilities ranked by overall rating (as provided by official data). Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
| Hospital | Rating |
|---|---|
| Copley Memorial HospitalAcute Care Hospitals · 2000 Ogden Avenue(630) 978-6200Map | 3/5 |
| Presence Mercy Medical CenterAcute Care Hospitals · 1325 N Highland Avenue(630) 859-2222Map | 3/5 |
Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Aurora (7 facilities)
7 home health agencies in Aurora providing CNA career opportunities. Showing top 5 facilities ranked by quality rating (as provided by official data). Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
| Agency | Quality |
|---|---|
| Resilience Home Health, Llc768 Shoreline Dr(630) 236-8800Map | 4.5/5 |
| Visiting Nurse Assocation Of Fox Valley400 North Highland Avenue(630) 892-4355Map | 3.5/5 |
| Dmj Home Health Services, Inc2720 E New York St, Suite 120(847) 423-2667Map | 3.0/5 |
| Ecs Health Care Agency And Home Health Services75 Executive Drive Suite 401D(630) 800-3349Map | 2.0/5 |
| After Care Home Health, Inc4255 Westbrook Drive(630) 585-9912Map | 1.0/5 |
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities and Other States
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Aurora? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Glen Ellyn, Chicago, Schaumburg, Arlington Heights, and Bolingbrook, 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.
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
Ready to start? Get info from CNA schools in Aurora.
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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?
Waubonsee Community College lists a price of $983. Ask the other programs in Aurora for theirs. Some schools and healthcare employers may cover the cost or reimburse you after hiring.
Are there free CNA classes in Aurora?
No program in Aurora is listed as free. Free CNA classes are offered in other Illinois cities. 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?
No program in Aurora is listed with online classes. Online and hybrid programs are offered in other Illinois cities. Clinical training is always in person.
Are there any 4-week CNA classes in Aurora?
No 4-week program is listed in Aurora. 4-week CNA programs are offered in other Illinois cities, usually in 3 to 5 weeks.
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 Glen Ellyn, Chicago, Schaumburg, Arlington Heights and Bolingbrook. 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. CMS lists 8 nursing homes, 2 hospitals and 7 home health agencies in Aurora. Many also use their CNA experience as a stepping stone to LPN or RN careers.
Information accuracy: requirements, salary data and other information are compiled from official sources but can change. Please confirm with the school or the state before making decisions. If you spot a mistake, let us know.