Training to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a fast and affordable way to enter the healthcare field—and in the San Jose area, there are programs that make this career path even more accessible. Whether you’re looking for free training with job placement support or a low-cost college-based program that can help you continue your education, you don’t have to spend thousands to get certified.
Below, we take a closer look at two standout CNA training programs in the area that offer affordability, flexibility, and strong career support.
Browse Schools:
1. Arriba Juntos
Arriba Juntos partners with Jewish Vocational Services (JVS) to offer a completely free CNA training program for eligible participants. This program is ideal for low-income job seekers, especially those interested in working in skilled nursing or long-term care facilities. The cost of tuition, books, uniforms, and exam fees are all covered, and students also receive career coaching, job placement help, and access to additional support services.
The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience, preparing students for the California CNA certification exam. Students must meet certain eligibility criteria, such as income level or unemployment status, and must go through a pre-screening and orientation process prior to enrollment.
Arriba Juntos is particularly well-suited for adults re-entering the workforce, immigrants, or individuals who need both a clear job pathway and wraparound support. After graduation, many students are placed into full-time CNA roles at local care facilities, sometimes with further advancement options into licensed nursing programs.
2. City College of San Francisco
City College of San Francisco (CCSF) offers a credit-based Nurse Assistant program as part of its Allied Health department. The cost is highly affordable—just $46 per unit for California residents—bringing the total to a few hundred dollars. Financial aid, including fee waivers and Pell Grants, is available for those who qualify, often covering tuition and books completely.
The program includes both lecture and clinical hours and is typically completed in a single semester. Students who complete the program are eligible to sit for the California CNA exam and can go straight into entry-level healthcare jobs. The curriculum is designed not only for workforce entry but also as a stepping stone toward the Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) or Registered Nurse (RN) pathways at CCSF.
City College’s CNA program is a smart choice for students who want an affordable college setting, transferable credits, and access to additional programs in nursing and healthcare. Flexible class schedules and campus support services make it manageable for working adults and first-time college students alike.
Our Thoughts
Here’s how Arriba Juntos and City College of San Francisco compare depending on your goals:
Final Takeaway
- Best free option with job placement: Arriba Juntos
- Best long-term academic path: City College of San Francisco
Both programs are excellent starting points into healthcare, and your best choice depends on whether you’re seeking quick employment with no cost or a broader academic foundation for future nursing education.