CNA Classes & Programs in Chicago, Illinois
30 state-approved CNA programs in Chicago, including free, online, 4-week, evening and weekend options.
Free to use. No obligation to enroll. Compare multiple programs. We may earn a fee when you request information from schools.
CNA training in Chicago
- Programs
- 30
- state-approved
- Median CNA pay
- $41,600
- $20.00 an hour
- CNA jobs
- 41,870
- in the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin region
- Healthcare facilities
- 177
- 78 nursing homes, 35 hospitals and 64 home health agencies
- Population
- 2,721,914
- residents
Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS (July 2025).
On this page
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.
Chicago offers 30 CNA programs for those interested in beginning a healthcare career in one of the largest cities in Illinois. Aspiring nursing assistants can take advantage of varied learning formats, including online and free CNA classes, ensuring flexible options for different schedules and budgets. The city’s size and diverse population contribute to an active environment for healthcare training and employment.
Training in Chicago is supported by an extensive network of medical facilities, ranging from hospitals to nursing homes and home health agencies. In the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metro area, CNAs earn around $41,600 annually, which is above the statewide median figure. Accelerated programs are also available for those who want to enter the workforce more quickly. Graduates find job opportunities throughout these facilities upon completion of their CNA courses.
CNA classes in Chicago are structured to prepare students for state certification and real-world patient care roles. With a variety of program formats and local employers hiring new CNAs, individuals can pursue a rewarding path in healthcare.
Get Info from CNA Schools in Chicago
Fill in the short form to get information from CNA schools that serve Chicago, such as cost, schedules and start dates.
CNA program search
✓ Free Service✓ No Obligations✓ Compare Multiple Programs
We may earn a fee when you request information from schools.
Browse CNA Classes in Chicago
Chicago offers 30 CNA training programs that prepare students for Illinois state certification through practical instruction and career-focused coursework. Options include accelerated classes, online courses, and free CNA training, providing flexibility for those working toward certification. Graduates are equipped for entry into the field with skills valued by healthcare employers, where CNAs are consistently needed throughout Chicago’s dynamic medical sector.
Program Types in Chicago
| Type | In Chicago | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Free or employer-paid | 3 programs | See them ↓ |
| 4-week (accelerated) | 8 programs | See them ↓ |
| Online or hybrid | 6 programs | See them ↓ |
| Evening or weekend | 14 programs | See them ↓ |
A program can appear under more than one type. Counts come from each program's published details.
All 30 CNA programs in Chicago
Blessings Healthcare Career Academy
CostFreeHours–Weeks6
- Address
- 200 E. 75th Street Suite 200, Chicago, IL 60619
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (872) 231-4100
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.
Visit websiteValparaiso Partner Solutions
CostFreeHours–Weeks4
- Address
- 180 N. Wabash Avenue, Chicago, IL 60601
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (630) 537-9600
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.
Visit websiteWest Side Learning Center
CostFreeHours–Weeks8
- Address
- 4624 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60644
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (312) 850-7420
- Schedule
- Evening classes
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.
Visit websiteCareer Training Center of Chicago
Cost$850Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 3525 W. Peterson Avenue, Ste. T-21, Chicago, IL 60659
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (773) 583-8532
- Schedule
- Evening classes
Private allied health school offering a Basic Nurse Assistant program with classroom instruction and supervised clinical training. Evening cohorts are available.
Visit websiteKodex Health Institute
Cost$900Hours–Weeks5
- Address
- 732 E. 75th Street, Chicago, IL 60619
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (773) 675-8561
Five-week CNA training combining classroom and clinical learning; tuition includes books with required physical, TB test, fingerprinting, and post-course exam.
Visit websitePhalanx Family Services
Cost$935Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 837 W. 119th St., Chicago, IL 60643
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (773) 291-1086
Phalanx Family Services offers a Basic Nursing Assistant training program in Chicago with approval noted through state listings and WIOA eligibility. The program prepares students for entry-level roles providing basic patient care.
Visit websiteGreat Paragon Health Services, Inc.
Cost$950Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 2640 W. Touhy Ave., Chicago, IL 60645
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (773) 274-7694
Great Paragon’s Basic Nursing Assistant Program provides didactic instruction and clinical skills training for entry-level care in hospitals, nursing homes, and home health. The school lists flexible scheduling and itemized tuition and fees for the CNA program.
Visit websiteFirst Step to Excellence Health Care Training
Cost$1,088Hours–Weeks6
- Address
- 1639 East 87th St., Chicago, IL 60617
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (773) 437-5003
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.
Visit websiteChicago Community Learning Center
Cost$1,230Hours144Weeks–
- Address
- 840 W. Irving Park Rd Suite 203, Chicago, IL 60613
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (773) 506-1503
Chicago Community Learning Center’s Nurse Aide & CPR program provides classroom, lab, and clinical training for work in long-term care, home health, and hospital settings. The program totals 144.5 clock hours with outlined tuition and required supplies.
Visit websiteDominican University - Paulina
Cost$1,300Hours–Weeks8
- Address
- 1805 S. Paulina Street, Chicago, IL 60608
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (708) 524-6272
- Schedule
- Evening and weekend classes
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.
Visit websiteScott School of Careers - Chicago
Cost$1,300Hours–Weeks4
- Address
- 5120 W. Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60644
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (773) 270-0900
- Schedule
- Evening classes
State-approved Nurse Aide course with hands-on training in theory, lab, and clinical; CPR is included. Four-week evening cohort available.
Visit websiteChicago’s Pulse CPR
Cost$1,475Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 3211 W. 111th Street, Chicago, IL 60655
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (773) 445-2277
- Schedule
- Evening classes
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.
Visit websiteNirvana Institute - North Campus
Cost$1,600Hours–Weeks5
- Address
- 3753 W. Fullerton Avenue, Chicago, IL 60647
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (773) 675-4000
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.
Visit websiteNirvana Institute - South Campus
Cost$1,600Hours–Weeks5
- Address
- 4650 S. King Drive, Suite 202, Chicago, IL 60653
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (773) 675-4000
- Schedule
- Evening and weekend classes
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.
Visit websiteNirvana Institute - West Campus
Cost$1,600Hours–Weeks5
- Address
- 2201 W. Madison St., Chicago, IL 60612
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (312) 796-3333
- Schedule
- Evening and weekend classes
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.
Visit websiteAnmut Nursing School
Cost$1,650Hours120Weeks–
- Address
- 1244 W. Thorndale Avenue, Chicago, IL 60660
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (847) 802-9685
- Schedule
- Evening classes
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.
Visit websiteInstituto del Progreso Latino
Cost$1,650Hours140Weeks11
- Address
- 2520 S. Western Avenue, Chicago, IL 60608
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (773) 890-0055
Instituto College oversees the Carreras en Salud Basic Nursing Assistant Training Program offering lecture, lab, and clinical preparation for entry-level patient care roles. The BNATP is listed with 140 total hours delivered across an 11-week schedule.
Visit websiteTTI Medical Training School
Cost$1,885Hours135Weeks15
- Address
- 5310 N. Harlem Avenue, Chicago, IL 60656
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (773) 261-9733
- Schedule
- Evening and weekend classes
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.
Visit websiteWm. H Loftin Education Consultants
Cost$1,943Hours–Weeks6
- Address
- 7207 S. Indiana Avenue, Chicago, IL 60619
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (773) 840-3696
- Schedule
- Evening and weekend classes
Six-week Basic Nursing Assistant program with day, evening, and weekend cohorts; tuition includes books and uniform with flexible payment plans.
Visit websiteChicago State University
Cost$3,060Hours140Weeks8
- Address
- 9501 S King Drive, Chicago, IL 60628
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (773) 995-2000
CSU Continuing Education offers a Basic Nursing Assistant course at the Gift of Hope location with classroom, lab and clinical training. Recent cohorts run 8 weeks and are WIOA-eligible.
Visit websiteAirey Healthcare
Cost–Hours–Weeks6
- Address
- 2916 N. Pulaski Road, Chicago, IL 60641
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (773) 961-4312
- Schedule
- Evening and weekend classes
Airey Healthcare offers a 6-week CNA program combining classroom instruction with supervised clinical experience. Morning, evening, and weekend cohorts are available.
Visit websiteCristab Healthcare Learning Center
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 5214 N. Western Avenue Unit 204, Chicago, IL 60625
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (312) 428-0430
- Schedule
- Evening and weekend classes
Basic Nursing Assistant Training Program with theory, lab, and clinical. Offers morning, evening, and weekend cohorts with online theory and in-person labs/clinicals.
Visit websiteEndeavor Health Swedish Hospital
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 5140 N. California Avenue, Chicago, IL 60625
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (773) 878-8200
Endeavor Health Swedish Hospital is a state-approved CNA training provider. Contact them directly for program details and enrollment information.
Visit websiteLife Enhancement Health Care Institute
Cost–Hours–Weeks6
- Address
- 8043 S. Racine, Chicago, IL 60620
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (312) 538-9702
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.
Visit websiteLights of Zion Ministries
Cost–Hours124Weeks7
- Address
- 11636 S. Halsted, Chicago, IL 60628
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (773) 785-2996
Lights of Zion Training Institute offers a 7‑week Basic Nursing Assistant Training Program totaling 124 hours with classroom, lab, and clinical instruction covering IDPH-required skills. Job placement assistance and WIOA-supported services are available for eligible students.
Visit websiteMalcolm X College
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 1900 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL 60612
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (312) 850-7000
- Schedule
- Evening classes
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.
Visit websiteMalcolm X College - Kennedy King Campus
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 6301 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60621
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (773) 602-5000
Kennedy-King offers the Basic Nursing Assistant basic certificate with classroom, lab, and clinical training for entry-level patient care roles.
Visit websiteMalcolm X College - Wright College Humboldt Park
Cost–Hours–Weeks10
- Address
- 1645 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (773) 489-8989
- Schedule
- Evening and weekend classes
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.
Visit websiteNorthwestern Memorial Healthcare
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 541 N. Fairbanks Court Suite 950, Chicago, IL 60611
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (312) 926-9138
Northwestern Memorial Healthcare is a state-approved CNA training provider. Contact them directly for program details and enrollment information.
Visit websiteRenee's School of Careers
Cost–Hours–Weeks–
- Address
- 10329 S Western Avenue, Chicago, IL 60643
Open in Google Maps - Phone
- (773) 233-7400
Renee's School of Careers offers a Basic Nurse Aide Training Program combining classroom instruction and supervised clinical experience to build core CNA skills. The program is approved under Illinois PBVS oversight.
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 30 programs fits you?
Free to use. No obligation to enroll. Compare multiple programs. We may earn a fee when you request information from schools.
Explore CNA Programs in Other Cities
Nearby cities
Major Illinois cities
All Illinois cities with CNA programs →CNA Employment Opportunities in Chicago
| 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 CNAs are employed across a range of healthcare settings. The demand for certified nursing assistants remains steady as Chicago serves as a central hub for healthcare services in northern Illinois, offering diverse employment opportunities for those entering the field. CNA jobs in Chicago are available in hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies.
CNA salary in Chicago reflects regional market conditions. In the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin area, CNAs earn around $41,600 annually or $20 per hour according to BLS OEWS (May 2023), which is above the Illinois statewide median of $39,510. This data highlights that wages for CNAs in this metropolitan region tend to be higher than many other parts of the state.
The city features a wide array of CMS-certified employers. Notable facilities include Smith Village, a nonprofit nursing home with 93 beds; Northwestern Memorial Hospital, recognized as a major employer with top CMS ratings; Rush University Medical Center; Admiral at the Lake, The; and All Family Health Care, Inc., which has earned strong quality ratings among home health agencies. With 78 nursing homes, 35 hospitals—including several renowned teaching hospitals—and 64 home health agencies based on recent CMS data, Chicago offers numerous workplace settings for new and experienced CNAs alike.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Chicago (78 facilities)
78 nursing homes in Chicago 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Smith Village2320 West 113Th Place(773) 474-7300Map | 93 | 3.5 |
| Selfhelp Home Of Chicago908 West Argyle Street(773) 271-0300Map | 72 | 3.4 |
| Little Sisters Of The Poor2325 North Lakewood Avenue(773) 935-9600Map | 76 | 3.2 |
| Admiral At The Lake, The933 West Foster Avenue(773) 433-1800Map | 36 | 3.1 |
| Mercy Circle3659 West 99Th Street(773) 253-3600Map | 23 | 2.8 |
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Chicago (35 facilities)
35 hospitals in Chicago offering CNA employment opportunities. Showing top 5 facilities ranked by overall rating (as provided by official data). Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
| Hospital | Rating |
|---|---|
| Jesse Brown Va Medical Center - Va Chicago Healthcare SystemAcute Care - Veterans Administration · 820 S Damen Street(312) 569-8387Map | 5/5 |
| Northwestern Memorial HospitalAcute Care Hospitals · 251 E Huron St(312) 926-2000Map | 5/5 |
| Rush University Medical CenterAcute Care Hospitals · 1653 West Congress Parkway(312) 947-0100Map | 5/5 |
| Amita Health Resurrection Medical CenterAcute Care Hospitals · 7435 W Talcott Avenue(773) 774-8000Map | 4/5 |
| Presence Saint Joseph Hospital - ChicagoAcute Care Hospitals · 2900 North Lake Shore Drive(773) 665-3000Map | 4/5 |
Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Chicago (64 facilities)
64 home health agencies in Chicago 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 |
|---|---|
| All Family Health Care, Inc6413 N Kinzua(773) 775-2588Map | 5.0/5 |
| Aster Home Health Services, Llc3500 W Peterson Avenue Suite 201(773) 267-5500Map | 5.0/5 |
| Diversified Home Care, Inc5501 West Montrose Avenue, Unit D(847) 729-9475Map | 5.0/5 |
| A-Cure Healthcare Solutions, Inc1000 N Milwaukee Ave, Suite 302(847) 329-7660Map | 4.5/5 |
| All About Healthcare, Inc6055 N Lincoln Ave(847) 568-1480Map | 4.5/5 |
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 Chicago? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Cicero, Aurora, Joliet, Naperville, and Elgin, 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 Chicago, IL
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Chicago, 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 Chicago 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 Chicago.
Free to use. No obligation to enroll. Compare multiple programs. We may earn a fee when you request information from schools.
Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Chicago
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Chicago?
Most CNA programs in Chicago can be completed in 4–12 weeks, depending on whether you choose a traditional, accelerated, or weekend schedule. The shortest published length here is 4 weeks, at Valparaiso Partner Solutions.
How much does CNA training cost in Chicago?
CNA programs in Chicago cost between $850 and $3,060, depending on the school. 3 programs are free or employer-paid. The lowest-priced paid option is Career Training Center of Chicago at $850. Some schools and healthcare employers may cover the cost or reimburse you after hiring.
Are there free CNA classes in Chicago?
Yes. 3 programs in Chicago are free or employer-paid: Blessings Healthcare Career Academy, Valparaiso Partner Solutions and West Side Learning Center. Some hospitals, nursing homes, and workforce programs may also offer free CNA training in exchange for a work commitment.
Are there online CNA training options available in Chicago?
Yes. 6 programs in Chicago offer hybrid options, with online coursework and in-person clinical training at local healthcare facilities.
Are there any 4-week CNA classes in Chicago?
Yes. 8 programs in Chicago are accelerated. Accelerated programs usually take 3 to 5 weeks, depending on class schedules and clinical requirements.
Which nearby cities are there for CNA classes and job opportunities?
Near Chicago there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Cicero, Aurora, Joliet, Naperville and Elgin. 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 Chicago?
CNAs in Chicago are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities. CMS lists 78 nursing homes, 35 hospitals and 64 home health agencies in Chicago. 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.