Online CNA Classes in Tennessee: Finding a Program

Inside Tennessee’s Online CNA Training

Online CNA classes in Tennessee offer convenient way to start an entry-level nursing career. These programs blend the best of online coursework and in-person clinicals to help prepare you for real-world patient work. But how do they work? How much do they cost? What are the admissions requirements?

The following Tennessee online CNA programs answer these questions and give you glimpse into some of the state’s top opportunities. See if a program like these makes the most sense for you.

Your Questions, Answered: Common Queries from Tennessee CNA Students

Those who are ready to dive into a CNA program and make the most of their commitment to allied health will likely still have many questions about what to expect. The following questions are among the most common asked by aspiring certified nursing assistants in Tennessee.

Are there free online CNA classes in Tennessee?

While it’s possible to get free CNA training in Tennessee through programs offered via skilled nursing facilities, it’s a little more difficult to find free CNA classes that are available exclusively online rather than in-person. Hybrid options are also available; for instance, Ballad Health offers free, hybrid CNA training in northeast Tennessee. Its program takes place in roughly two to four months, depending on your chosen schedule.

Those who are already working in a skilled nursing facility can expect to earn their CNA license while they get paid. This unique program in Tennessee is hands-on, allowing you to learn on the job and thus doesn’t offer much in the way of online study.

Can I take the CNA test without classes in Tennessee?

If you can prove that you’ve completed hands-on training or education similar to what’s covered in the state’s approved nurse aide training programs, then you can request to take the exam without taking any other classes. You must submit a formal challenge application in order to do so.

Those who have some experience with caring for patients in a general capacity might believe they can pass the CNA test without going through formal education, and for some, this is entirely possible. But you will have to prove that you have the in-depth knowledge necessary to pass the test without going through the course.

Do free online CNA courses offer a certificate of completion?

Free online CNA courses may offer certificates showing that you completed the course in question, but this type of certification is not the same as a state-mandated one for CNAs. The only way to receive that certification is to go through the state’s examination process or have a valid certification in another state transferred to Tennessee.

Keep in mind that while some employers might accept a certificate showing you completed the course, your odds of getting hired are much greater after you pass the examination and can show employers that you are certified. Certification might also be a requirement if you choose to move further into the allied health field, such as taking an online CNA to LPN bridge program.

How long does it take to become a CNA in Tennessee?

The fastest you can become a CNA in Tennessee is about a month. You achieve this by taking an intensive training program that packs all of your classroom and clinical education into a shorter time period. After that, you can schedule and then pass your state competency test to receive your CNA certification.

Tennessee requires 40 hours of classroom education and 35-60 hours of clinical education prior to taking the state’s CNA competency exam. Most people complete this process in just a few months, but the exact length of time will depend on your chosen program and how much time you have to dedicate to it.

How much do CNA classes cost in Tennessee?

It’s possible to receive free CNA training in Tennessee if you pursue it through a nursing home or similar institution where you work. Alternatively, tuition varies if you decide to take CNA classes through private colleges and universities, but you can expect to pay a few thousand dollars.

If you choose to take the courses through a community college or university, you might be eligible for financial aid from the federal government. To be sure, take the time to speak to an admissions counselor and fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You can also look into CNA scholarships and financial aid resources from the state of Tennessee.

What to Expect as a CNA in Tennessee: Salary & Career Outlook