Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the program cost?

NextStep offers two payment options: employer-sponsored scholarship or tuition. If you choose the scholarship option, the NextStep

Certified Nursing Assistant

program is tuition free. To be eligible for the scholarship, you’ll agree to take a job with one of our respected employer partners for at least 90 days after certification. NextStep will work with you on the best job match and will consider your needs and preferences. Scholarship track learners are responsible for state exam fees. If you choose to self pay, tuition for NextStep’s Nursing Assistant program is

$1750

. A first payment of

$350

is charged immediately upon choosing the tuition track. Then,

$350

every is charged every two weeks over the next 10 weeks, for a total of

$1750

.

How do I know if the tuition or scholarship option is right for me?

NextStep offers two payment options to fit your needs. If you’re interested in starting a new career with no up-front costs and the security of knowing there’s a job waiting for you after graduation, then the scholarship track is right for you! If you already know who you want to work for after certification and don’t mind covering your own costs, then the tuition track is probably your best option.

Are there additional costs?

NextStep graduates must cover the cost of the CNA exam and, depending on the state you’re in, you may be required to purchase a textbook.

How long do I have to complete the program?

Most learners complete the

Certified Nursing Assistant

program in five to eight weeks. Because it’s important that your knowledge be fresh when you start your first job as a CNA, we require all learners to complete the course in no more than 16 weeks.

Where do I take the course?

NextStep’s

Certified Nursing Assistant

program uses a blended-learning approach. You can complete the theory portion of the course on any device with a web browser, including mobile phones, tablets and computers. Then, you’ll attend our in-person practice labs and clinicals at a facility in your geographic area.

How quickly can I complete the course?

For learners wanting to complete the

Certified Nursing Assistant

program as quickly as possible, we suggest a five-week schedule.

What is included in the course?

NextStep’s

Certified Nursing Assistant

program uses a blended-learning approach to make learning flexible and easy. Tuition includes the theory portion of the course (which is completed via app on any device with a web browser); in-person practice labs and clinicals; and an exam-prep session.

Is the course state approved?

NextStep’s

Certified Nursing Assistant

program is currently approved in Colorado and Washington. We’re expanding to other states soon! Follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram to stay up to date on our programs. 

What do NextStep graduates say about the course?

What is a mentor and how frequently do I speak with my mentor?

We match every learner in the

Certified Nursing Assistant

program with an experienced CNA mentor. Your mentor is there to support you from the moment you enroll through your first 90 days on the job. From setting course goals to general cheerleading, your mentor is invested in your success. And, because every mentor is a CNA, they can answer all your questions about being a professional caregiver.

What kind of job can NextStep help me get?

NextStep’s employer partners range from skilled nursing facilities and senior living communities to home care agencies. Graduates are placed as full-time CNAs with employer partners who match their geographic and career preferences.

Is employment guaranteed?

Learners who choose our tuition scholarship track and meet all state certification requirements are guaranteed a job placement offer with one of NextStep’s respected employer partners. 

Why do I have to put a credit or debit card on file with NextStep?

NextStep requires scholarship-track learners to submit a credit card number to be kept on file. Your card will not be charged unless you choose not to continue with the NextStep tuition scholarship. If you choose not to complete all scholarship requirements, drop out of the NextStep

Certified Nursing Assistant

course after beginning practice labs or switch to the tuition track, NextStep reserves the right to charge you the

$1750

course tuition. We will not charge you without advance notification.

Is NextStep an employment agency?

No. NextStep is a training-to-placement

Certified Nursing Assistant

 program. We partner with respected employers who cover the cost of your tuition when you agree to a minimum of 90 days employment after graduation. This partnership allows us to provide tuition-free training and post-certification jobs to learners! 

Do I have to take a background check?

A background check is required for participation in the NextStep

Certified Nursing Assistant

program and for certification in many states. If you have any criminal offenses on your record, you may be ineligible.

Can I get recertified as a CNA through NextStep?

Absolutely! Our mentors can work with you to determine your best path to recertification.