Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant is one of the most accessible ways to enter the healthcare field. In the Bay Area, you don’t have to spend thousands to get certified. Many local programs offer low-cost or even free CNA training, often paired with job placement support, flexible schedules, and options to advance into LVN or RN programs.
Below, we’ve consolidated the top affordable CNA programs in the Bay Area, including options in Oakland, San Francisco, and San Jose. Whether you’re looking for a college-based program, an accelerated course, or online learning, this list has you covered.
Affordable and Local CNA Programs in the Bay Area
| Program | Tuition | Duration | Job Placement | Location |
| Arriba Juntos (JVS) | $0 | ~8 weeks | ✅ Strong Placement | San Francisco |
| City College of SF | ~$300–$500 | 1 semester | ✅ + Academic Transfer | San Francisco |
| Mission College | $855 | 12 weeks | ✅ + College Credits | Santa Clara |
| FUHSD Adult School | $650 | 10–12 weeks | ✅ Strong Outcomes | Sunnyvale |
| CAL ACE Nursing Academy | $0 | 6–7 weeks | ✅ Limited Support | Milpitas |
| Evergreen Valley College | ~$891 | 14 weeks | ✅ + HHA Option | San Jose |
| Diablo Valley Post Acute | $0 | 8 weeks | ✅ Employment Required | Concord |
| NCHI (San Leandro) | $0 | 6 weeks | ✅ Career Coaching | San Leandro |
| PASS Institute | $1,895 | 4 weeks | ⚠️ No Placement Guaranteed | Antioch |
| VIP Nursing School | ~$800 | 4–6 weeks | ✅ Small Class Sizes | San Leandro |
Browse Schools:
1. Arriba Juntos + JVS (San Francisco)
Summary: A no-cost CNA training program for low-income job seekers with full support services and job placement.
Details: Covers all fees, books, and materials. Designed for workforce re-entry and immigrant job seekers.
2. City College of San Francisco (CCSF)
Summary: A highly affordable CNA program offering college credit and a pathway to LVN/RN careers.
Details: Just $46/unit for CA residents ($300–$500 total). Includes clinical experience and full student services.
3. Mission College (Santa Clara)
Summary: A well-rounded 12-week CNA program with college credits, strong support, and nursing transfer options.
Details: Tuition is $855; includes clinicals, labs, and academic services. Ideal for future LVNs and RNs.
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4. FUHSD Adult School (Sunnyvale)
Summary: A $650 CNA program offering 220 hours of training, college articulation, and a 94% pass rate.
Details: Taught by RN/LVN faculty; grants college credit through Mission College; strong industry ties.
5. CAL ACE Nursing Academy (Milpitas)
Summary: A tuition-free, hybrid CNA program with live Zoom classes and local clinicals.
Details: Includes supplies, BLS training, and optional RNA certification. 100% pass rate on state exams.
6. Evergreen Valley College (San Jose)
Summary: A college-accredited CNA/HHA program offering dual certification and deep academic support.
Details: ~$891 total. Includes tutoring, HHA training, and financial aid options.
7. Diablo Valley Post Acute (Concord)
Summary: A no-tuition CNA program with guaranteed job placement at one of California’s top care facilities.
Details: 8-week course with hands-on training and direct-to-employment model.
8. Northern California Healthcare Institute (San Leandro)
Summary: A 6-week, fully funded, flexible CNA program with online options and job coaching.
Details: Includes exam prep, HHA add-on, and small class sizes. Ideal for working adults.
9. PASS Institute (Antioch)
Summary: A 4-week accelerated CNA program priced at $1,895 with payment plans.
Details: Fastest option available with 160-hour CDPH-approved curriculum.
10. VIP Nursing School (San Leandro)
Summary: A long-standing CNA program (~$800) with small classes and in-depth instruction.
Details: 4–6 week schedule with monthly payment plans and personal support.