Free CNA Classes in St. Louis

Aspire Healthcare Solutions runs a free CNA program for qualified individuals approved through SLATE (St. Louis Agency on Training and Employment). For those not using grant funding, the program can still be accessed via payment plans or self-pay options. The training lasts six weeks and includes 75 hours of online coursework and 100 hours of in-person clinical rotation. Students gain skills needed for entry-level patient care jobs in long-term care facilities, home health, or hospitals.

Evening classes are available, making this a practical choice for working adults. To qualify, students must be at least 18 years old, pass a background check, and be listed in the Family Care Safety Registry with no disqualifying factors. A high school diploma or equivalent is recommended but not required. Additional supplies like a blood pressure cuff, stethoscope, and textbook are included in tuition for self-pay students.

The Delmar Gardens Family provides a free CNA training and apprentice program at four of its skilled nursing locations: Chesterfield, O’Fallon, South (Sappington), and Meramec Valley (Fenton). The catch? You must be hired first as a Nurse Assistant Trainee. Once you’re employed, you’re enrolled in the CNA program at no cost—and you’ll actually get paid $15 per hour during your clinical training hours.

The CNA program includes the required 175 hours of classroom and hands-on clinical training, as regulated by the State of Missouri. While you’re in the program, you’re expected to attend all scheduled classes and shifts. After completing training and passing your certification test, you’re promoted to CNA and receive a pay increase to $17 per hour.

Full-time CNAs are eligible for up to $1,000 in bonuses, paid out over the first year of employment if you stay in good standing. Additional benefits kick in after 90 days, including health insurance, 401(k) with match, daily pay options, and tuition assistance. The program structure also allows for flexible scheduling with 12-, 8-, or 4-hour shifts and PRN options.

This program is a solid fit for someone looking to get certified without the upfront cost—and get real experience and income while doing it. The fact that you’re an employee from day one sets this program apart from traditional CNA schools. Spots are limited, and applicants must be reliable, on time, and ready to commit to the job and training.

STL Training offers a free 10-week Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) Apprenticeship program through funding like the Health Professions Opportunity Grant (HPOG). Classes are held one day a week from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at South Tech in Sunset Hills, while clinical training takes place two days a week from 6:45 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. at a partner facility such as Bethesda Dilworth. In addition to classroom and clinical training, participants are expected to work two extra 8-hour shifts each week alongside a CNA mentor. The program includes over 175 total hours of instruction and training—exceeding Missouri’s requirements—and leads to eligibility for the state CNA exam.

To qualify, applicants must be 18 or older, have a high school diploma or GED, and meet specific health and background screening requirements. This includes a drug test, TB test, physical exam, immunizations, and a clean background check. Intermediate English skills and the ability to lift 50 pounds are recommended. Candidates must also score adequately on the WorkKeys assessment.

The program is no-cost for those who qualify for funding, and all instructional materials are included. Interested individuals must attend an information session and interview with an employer. Once hired, students begin as CNA apprentices earning paid experience during the program. This training is non-credit but recognized by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and the U.S. Department of Labor.

The CNA training at The Daruby School runs for 12 weeks and includes 181 total hours of instruction—75 hours of basic patient care, 100 hours of clinicals, and 6 hours of CPR and First Aid. Classes meet Monday through Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for the first five weeks, with clinicals Monday through Thursday during the second five weeks.

Students may be able to take the class at no cost if they qualify for funding through organizations like Better Family Life or SLATE. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED to enroll. The school focuses on helping students succeed with job placement support and connections to local healthcare employers.

South Tech High School’s Health Sciences program is completely free for high school juniors and seniors and leads to CNA certification in Missouri. Students earn dual high school and potential college credit while gaining real-world experience through clinicals at hospitals and long-term care facilities.

Students must start in their junior year and meet specific entry requirements—at least 7 total credits (including English and lab-based science), be on track to graduate, and be at least 16 on the first day. To participate in clinicals, students also need a physical, background check, drug screen, and required vaccinations like Hep A, Hep B, MMR, and COVID-19.The two-year schedule includes a shift from mostly classroom learning in year one to hands-on clinicals in year two. By graduation, students will have CPR, OSHA, and CNA certifications—enabling them to work in healthcare immediately or use the skills in college. The program builds strong peer support and job-ready skills without tuition costs.

Bethesda Health Group runs a free CNA Apprentice Program for those interested in starting a career in healthcare. Open to employees at any Bethesda location, the program pays for your CNA training and adds a $1,000 bonus once you begin full-time work, with another $1,500 bonus after nine months on the job.

The program is available across multiple facilities in the St. Louis metro area, including some in Illinois. To qualify, you must be employed by Bethesda and obtain CNA certification in the state you’ll work in. CPR certification is required or must be earned within six months. Experience in long-term care is a plus but not required. Pay ranges from $16.08 to $25.24/hour, and employees receive benefits like tuition reimbursement, daily pay, and holiday pay.