CNA Classes & Programs in Illinois
- CNA Programs in Illinois: At-a-Glance
- Why Become a CNA in Illinois?
- Illinois CNA Training & Certification
- CNA Curriculum & Clinical Training in Illinois
- How Long Does it Take to Become a CNA in Illinois?
- Do Online CNA Programs Exist in Illinois?
- 2026 Fastest CNA Training Program Options in Illinois
- 2026 Affordable CNA Training Program Options in Illinois
- Illinois CNA Employment and Wages
- How to Choose the Right CNA Program in Illinois
- CNA vs Other Healthcare Roles in Illinois
- 2026 Updated List of Illinois Schools Offering CNA Classes
- Latest Articles & Guides
Certified Nursing Assistants are the backbone of daily patient care in Illinois hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and senior living communities. From Chicago to Springfield and the Quad Cities, CNAs (also called “nurse aides”) help residents stay safe, comfortable, and independent while supporting nurses with essential clinical tasks. For Illinois residents looking for a short, inexpensive path into healthcare, CNA training is one of the most direct options.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- Illinois CNA certification and registry rules
- Training hours and clinical expectations
- What CNA classes actually teach
- How long programs take and what they cost
- Tips for choosing quality, low-cost CNA programs in Illinois
CNA Programs in Illinois: At-a-Glance
| Category | Illinois CNA Information |
| Minimum training hours required | 120 hours |
| Clinical requirement | Yes, in-person supervised clinical required |
| Certification exam | Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Exam |
| State registry | Illinois Health Care Worker Registry |
| Typical program length | 4–12 weeks |
| Typical total cost | About $900–$1,600 (varies by provider) |
| Average CNA Salary in Illinois | Generally $40k-$45k range, varies by region |
Why Become a CNA in Illinois?
Illinois has one of the largest healthcare systems in the Midwest, and demand for entry-level caregivers remains strong, particularly in skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and home health. CNAs are often the first professionals hired when facilities expand services or address staffing gaps.
Becoming a CNA in Illinois makes sense because:
- Training is quicker compared to most healthcare roles
- Many employers hire new graduates immediately
- Experience can lead to tuition assistance for LPN or RN school
- Work is available statewide, from rural communities to major metro hospitals
With hundreds of long-term care facilities and a growing senior population, Illinois offers consistent opportunities for newly certified aides.
Illinois CNA Training & Certification
Illinois sets clear steps for earning CNA certification:
- Graduate from a state-approved CNA training program that meets the 120-hour requirement.
- Pass the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Exam, which includes:
- A written knowledge test
- A hands-on skills evaluation
- Be listed on the Illinois Health Care Worker Registry before beginning employment.
- Maintain active status through documented work hours and renewal rules.
The exam focuses on real workplace abilities, including patient safety, infection prevention, mobility assistance, and communication. Schools typically provide structured test prep so graduates are ready on the first attempt.
CNA Curriculum & Clinical Training in Illinois
CNA Coursework & Clinical Overview
| Training Component | What Students Learn |
| Nursing Fundamentals | Resident rights, safety, infection prevention |
| Personal Care Skills | Hygiene, feeding, toileting, mobility support |
| Vital Signs & Monitoring | Temperature, pulse, respiration, BP |
| Communication & Professionalism | Teamwork, ethics, dementia care basics |
| Clinical Training | Real-world practice under instructor supervision |
Illinois requires hands-on clinical experience within the 120-hour total. Clinical rotations are usually completed in:
- Skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers
- Hospitals or transitional care units
- Assisted living communities
These experiences ensure students can perform transfers, chart observations, and interact with residents confidently.
How Long Does it Take to Become a CNA in Illinois?
Most Illinois CNA classes run between 4 and 12 weeks. The timeline depends on:
- Full-time daytime schedules (fastest option)
- Evening or weekend formats for working adults
- Speed of clinical placement and testing dates
Accelerated programs can finish in about one month, while part-time formats may extend closer to three months.
Do Online CNA Programs Exist in Illinois?
Illinois permits hybrid CNA training, but not fully online certification.
- Lecture portions may be delivered online
- Skills labs and clinical hours must be completed in person
- The state competency exam requires face-to-face testing
Any school advertising 100% online CNA certification without local clinical training will not meet Illinois approval standards.
2026 Fastest CNA Training Program Options in Illinois
When you want to start a career in healthcare, finding the fastest CNA training programs in Illinois can help you get certified and working sooner. These quickest programs often let you finish in just a few weeks or months, saving you time and money. In cities like Chicago, Springfield, and Peoria, many schools offer these options. They focus on hands-on skills and prepare you for state exams. With good graduation and retention rates, these programs support students through to completion. Choosing a shorter path means you can begin helping patients and earning an income faster, making it a smart step toward your goals in nursing.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Sauk Valley Community College |
|
|
| Rend Lake College |
|
|
| Illinois Central College |
|
|
*Data extracted from: NCES IPEDS 2024 public dataset.
2026 Affordable CNA Training Program Options in Illinois
This table shows affordable CNA training programs in Illinois. Getting a certificate or diploma in this field can lead to a stable career in healthcare. It is important to find low-cost options so you can start working without big debts. The programs listed here offer good training at a reasonable price. They are available across the state, including in cities like Chicago and Springfield. The table includes details on each program's highlights and tuition range. This helps you compare choices and pick one that fits your budget. By 2026, these options can help you enter the healthcare workforce quickly and affordably.
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Carl Sandburg College |
|
|
| Lincoln Land Community College |
|
|
| City Colleges of Chicago-Malcolm X College |
|
|
*Higher education statistics sourced from IPEDS 2024 via NCES.
Illinois CNA Employment and Wages
CNA salary in Illinois varies by location, shift, and setting, with higher wages common in the Chicago metro area and hospital environments.
CNA Salary in Illinois
| Location | Total Employment | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 1,388,430 | $39,530 |
| Illinois | 64,660 | $44,750 |
Table data taken from 2024 BLS (http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes311131.htm)
How to Choose the Right CNA Program in Illinois
Use this practical checklist before enrolling:
- Approved by Illinois and eligible for the state exam
- Guaranteed clinical site, not "student must find own"
- Clear, itemized tuition (books, scrubs, exam fees)
- Flexible schedules for working students
- Job placement support or employer partnerships
The best programs emphasize skills practice, small class sizes, and strong first-time pass rates.
CNA vs Other Healthcare Roles in Illinois
| Role | Training Length | Primary Duties | Entry Level? |
| CNA | 4–12 weeks | Basic care, ADLs, vitals | Yes |
| Medical Assistant | 9–12 months | Clinic procedures, admin | Yes |
| LPN | 12–18 months | Meds, nursing tasks | Licensed |
| RN | 2–4 years | Assessments, full nursing | Licensed |
CNA training is the shortest and most inexpensive route, while LPN and RN roles require more schooling but offer expanded scope and pay. For advancement opportunities, check out CNA to RN programs or explore nursing schools in Illinois.
2026 Updated List of Illinois Schools Offering CNA Classes
If you want to become a Certified Nursing Assistant in Illinois, the 2026 updated list of schools offering CNA classes can help you find the right program. This table shows schools across the state, with details on their city location, program highlights, and direct links to each school's program page. You can easily compare options and start your journey into healthcare by exploring these opportunities.
Jump to City:
Belleville, IL
Southwestern Illinois College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- IDPH-approved CNA training program.
- One semester program length.
- Multiple campus locations available.
- Classes offered every semester.
- Background check required.
- Age requirement: 16 years old.
- Clinical experience included.
- Physical exam and immunizations needed.
Carterville, IL
John A Logan College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- 7 credit hour program.
- Campus-based instruction.
- Illinois Department of Public Health approved.
- Criminal background check required.
- Training for hospitals and long-term care.
- Program code: 00NAD 0055.
- Single course: NAD 101.
- Contact Testing Services for admission.
Centralia, IL
Kaskaskia College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- 8-16 week program length
- Campus-based instruction
- Total cost $1,934
- 7 credit hour course
- Includes clinical experience
- Prepares for state CNA exam
- Illinois Department of Public Health approved
- Requires 8th-grade reading level
Champaign, IL
Parkland College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- One-semester certificate program.
- Six credit hours.
- Approved by Illinois Department of Public Health.
- Day and evening classes available.
- State-of-the-art facility training.
- Rural setting options.
- Covers patient care skills.
- Includes Alzheimer's and dementia care.
Chicago, IL
City Colleges of Chicago-Malcolm X College
- Certificate/Diploma - BNA Fundamentals and Clinical, Basic Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- IDPH approved program.
- Prepares for CNA certification.
- Hands-on clinical training.
- 8 credit hours total.
- State exam required post-completion.
- Selective admissions process.
- English and Math prerequisites.
- Medical examination documentation needed.
- Certificate/Diploma - Basic Nursing Assistant Training
Campus Based - Website
- Eight-week comprehensive training
- Five annual program sessions
- Prerequisite for nursing degree
- Prepares Certified Nursing Assistants
- Healthcare industry entry-level certification
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for CNA certification.
- Campus-based program.
- Five offerings per year.
- Morning and evening sessions.
- 3-4 days weekly classes.
- 5.5 hour class days.
- 40 clinical hours required.
- Two campus locations.
Cicero, IL
Morton College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Certified Nursing Assistant training.
- Basic English skills required.
- Basic arithmetic skills needed.
- Criminal background check mandatory.
- 16 years or older to enroll.
- Placement testing required.
- NUR 104 prerequisite course.
Crystal Lake, IL
McHenry County College
- Certificate/Diploma - Basic Nursing Assistant Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- 7 credit hours.
- 16 weeks to complete.
- 136 hours of instruction.
- 48 hours clinical experience.
- Campus-based program.
- In-district cost $1,535.75.
- Requires background check.
- Fingerprinting required.
Danville, IL
Danville Area Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- 99 classroom theory hours.
- 40 clinical experience hours.
- 100% attendance required.
- 82% minimum grade needed.
- High school diploma or GED required.
- TOEFL required for non-native speakers.
- Illinois Department of Public Health certification.
- Campus-based program.
Decatur, IL
Richland Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Health 141: Nurse Assistant Training
Campus Based - Website
- Certified Nursing Assistant program
- Academic Certificate (1 year or less)
- Nurse Assistant Basic Certificate
- Campus-based program
- Provides basic nursing care training
- Supervision by licensed nurses
- Employment in healthcare settings
- Long-term care opportunities
Des Plaines, IL
Oakton College
- Certificate/Diploma - Basic Nurse Assistant Training (BNAT)
Campus Based - Website
- Eight credit hour certificate.
- Completed in one semester.
- Hybrid or face-to-face format.
- Approved by Illinois Department of Public Health.
- Hands-on clinical experiences.
- Focuses on basic human needs.
- Prepares for CNA certification.
- Strong employment prospects.
- Certificate/Diploma - Basic Nurse Assistant Training
Campus Based - Website
- Eight-credit certificate program
- IDPH approved training
- Hands-on clinical experiences
- Career placement support
- Multiple healthcare work settings
Dixon, IL
Sauk Valley Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- State-approved Illinois program.
- 8-16 week duration.
- Classroom and clinical learning.
- Prepares for competency exam.
- Minimum age 16 years.
- 8th grade reading required.
- Health requirements upon enrollment.
- In-district cost $1,392.
East Peoria, IL
Illinois Central College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- 4-month completion time
- 7 total credit hours
- $1,120 estimated cost
- Campus-based program
- Small class sizes
- Basic Life Support CPR certification
- Minimum age 16 years
- Free admissions application
Elgin, IL
Elgin Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Basic Nurse Assistant Training Program (Basic)
Campus Based - Website
- 7-credit campus program.
- $1,061 in-district tuition.
- Approximately $450 additional costs.
- Minimum age 16 years.
- Reading and math prerequisites required.
- Health documentation required.
- Background check and drug test.
- Uniforms and gait belt needed.
Galesburg, IL
Carl Sandburg College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program format.
- Meets Illinois IDPH guidelines.
- Includes clinical experiences.
- Cost: $1,945.50 in-district.
- Admission requires high school transcript.
- Background check mandatory.
- Drug screening required.
- TB test prerequisite.
Glen Ellyn, IL
College of DuPage
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Campus Based - Website
- One-semester program length.
- Six credit hours required.
- Campus-based instruction.
- Combines classroom and clinical education.
- Prepares for Illinois CNA exam.
- High exam pass rate.
- Entry-level healthcare training.
- Covers basic nursing skills.
Godfrey, IL
Lewis and Clark Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- One semester completion.
- Certificate of Completion awarded.
- 48 hours clinical training.
- Eligible for Illinois CNA exam.
- Campus-based program.
- Work in healthcare settings.
- Eighth grade completion required.
- Background check mandatory.
Grayslake, IL
College of Lake County
- Certificate/Diploma - Nurse Assisting Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- 7-credit program.
- Estimated cost $1,225.
- Prepares for Illinois CNA exam.
- Campus-based with online options.
- Program length 2-4 months.
- Full-time completion in 8 weeks.
- Admission requires background check.
- Drug screening required.
Harrisburg, IL
Southeastern Illinois College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- Certificate program.
- Approved by Illinois Department of Public Health.
- No high school diploma required.
- Reading assessment prerequisite.
- Tuition waived for in-district.
- $369 in fees.
- Not financial aid eligible.
- Campus-based program.
Ina, IL
Rend Lake College
- Certificate/Diploma - CNA - Basic Nurse Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- CNA - Basic Nurse Assistant program.
- Approved by Illinois Department of Public Health.
- Eligible for state CNA registry exam.
- Grade of 'C' or better required.
- Minimum age 16 years old.
- Reading test score minimum 235.
- Background check required.
- CPR certification needed.
Joliet, IL
Joliet Junior College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for Illinois state exam.
- Hands-on training in healthcare settings.
- Eighth-grade education required.
- Minimum age 16 years.
- English language proficiency needed.
- Valid Social Security number required.
- IL MAP Grant funding eligible.
- Orientation required before registration.
Malta, IL
Kishwaukee College
- Certificate/Diploma - Basic Nurse Assisting
Campus Based - Website
- Eight-week program length.
- Campus-based instruction.
- Illinois Department of Public Health approved.
- Hands-on lab practice.
- Clinical experience with real patients.
- Prepares for Illinois CNA certification.
- Requires Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Exam.
- Contact BNA Director for admissions.
Moline, IL
Black Hawk College
- Certificate/Diploma - Basic Nurse Assistant Training Program (Certificate)
Campus Based - Website
- Eight-week program length.
- 108 credit hours total.
- On-campus format only.
- 40-hour clinical practicum.
- Includes CPR training.
- Includes Alzheimer's training.
- Minimum age 16 years.
- 8th-grade education required.
Normal, IL
Heartland Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program
Campus Based - Website
- 8-credit comprehensive program
- 90 hours theory and lab
- 50 hours clinical experience
- 98% state exam pass rate
- State-approved healthcare training
- Multiple course format options
- Criminal background check required
- Physical exam mandatory
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- State-approved program.
- Campus-based training.
- Small class sizes.
- Dedicated instructors.
- Live lab on campus.
- Affordable tuition.
- Supportive environment.
- 100% job placement.
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant (Certificate)
Campus Based - Website
- 8 credit hours program.
- State-approved CNA program.
- 90 hours theory and lab.
- 50 hours clinical experience.
- Eligible for Illinois state exam.
- 98% state exam pass rate.
- Campus-based program in Illinois.
- Basic skill assessment required.
Olney, IL
Olney Central College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Aide
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for CNA certification.
- Combines classroom and clinical hours.
- 16-week format in spring/fall.
- 8-week format in summer.
- Meets Illinois Department of Public Health requirements.
- Requires mandatory orientation.
- Fingerprint background check required.
- Eligible for state competency exam.
Palatine, IL
William Rainey Harper College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- 6 credit-hour certificate program.
- Campus-based program in Illinois.
- Hands-on training in nursing lab.
- Clinical experience required.
- Approved by Illinois Department of Public Health.
- Valid Social Security number needed.
- Criminal background check required.
- Health requirements must be met.
Palos Hills, IL
Moraine Valley Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Basic Nurse Assistant Training
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for CNA certification.
- Includes clinical rotations.
- 64 classroom lecture hours.
- 40 lab training hours.
- 40 clinical rotation hours.
- Covers 21 patient care skills.
- Approved by Illinois Department of Public Health.
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for CNA certification.
- 64 hours classroom lecture.
- 40 hours lab training.
- 40 hours clinical rotations.
- 21 manual skills required.
- Campus-based program.
- Offered in Palos Hills.
- Also in Tinley Park.
Quincy, IL
John Wood Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Basic Nursing Assistant Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid classroom and clinical training
- 7 credit hour program
- In-district tuition $1,190
- Prepares for CNA certification
- Patient care skills development
- Covers anatomy and physiology
- Clinical practice at nursing homes
- Mandatory orientation sessions
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant- CNA
Campus Based - Website
- Classroom, lab, and clinical experience.
- Day and evening classes available.
- Multiple campus locations.
- Prepares for CNA certification.
- Includes anatomy and physiology.
- Covers patient care skills.
- Requires background check.
- Drug screening mandatory.
River Grove, IL
Triton College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- Program includes lectures and labs.
- Clinical experience provided.
- Leads to a certificate.
- Eligible for Illinois Nurse Aide Test.
- Approved by Illinois Department of Public Health.
- Mandatory information session required.
- Complete Triton College application.
- Submit transcripts for admission.
Rockford, IL
Rock Valley College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Aide Certificate (CNA)
Campus Based - Website
- Certificate program available.
- Campus-based instruction.
- 80 classroom hours required.
- 40 clinical hours required.
- Flexible schedule options.
- Morning sessions available.
- Afternoon sessions available.
- Evening sessions available.
South Holland, IL
South Suburban College
- Certificate/Diploma - Basic Nurse Assistant Training Program (BNATP)
Campus Based - Website
- 6 credit hour certificate program
- Campus-based with clinical rotations
- Prepares for Illinois certification exam
- Includes lab fee and exam cost
- Requires reading placement test
- Background check mandatory
- Immunization records needed
- CPR certification required
Springfield, IL
Lincoln Land Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Basic Nurse Assistant (CNA)
Campus Based - Website
- Certificate of Completion program.
- 8- or 16-week options.
- Prepares for IDPH exam.
- In-district tuition $1,036.
- Additional costs: textbooks, scrubs.
- Rolling admissions.
- Fall, spring, summer terms.
- Selective admission criteria.
Midwest Technical Institute-Illinois
- Certificate/Diploma - Basic Nursing Assistant (BNA) Program
Campus Based - Website
- 7-week accelerated program
- $2,200 total program cost
- 136 clock hours required
- Daytime and evening classes
- Hands-on lab training
- Clinical experience included
- Campus-based program only
- No general education courses
- Certificate/Diploma - Basic Nursing Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- 7-week accelerated program
- Daytime and evening classes
- 136 clock hours total
- Certificate completion
- Hands-on lab training
- Real-world clinical experience
- Experienced instructors
- No general education required
Sugar Grove, IL
Waubonsee Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Basic Nurse Assistant Training
Campus Based - Website
- 16-week program length
- Certificate of Achievement
- Illinois Department of Public Health approved
- Prepares for state competency exam
- 6 credit hour program
- Campus-based instruction
- Major code 427B
- Meets Nursing Home Reform Act requirements
Ullin, IL
Shawnee Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certified Nurse Assistant
Campus Based - Website
- Program length 130 hours.
- 90 hours theory training.
- 40 hours clinical practice.
- Eligible for Illinois state test.
- Admission age 16 or older.
- Background check required.
- Campus-based program.
- 7.5 credit hours total.
*Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) 2024, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Department of Education.
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