10 Best CNA Programs & Schools in San Jose, California

Looking for the best CNA programs in San Jose, California? Discover the top 10 schools for your CNA training and start your career today!
Best CNA Programs in San Jose, CA: Top 10 Schools in 2026

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) play an important role in healthcare by helping patients with daily activities under the guidance of nurses and other medical professionals. As the U.S. population ages and healthcare needs increase, CNAs remain in demand. According to O*NET California employment trends, employment for nursing assistants in California is projected to grow 14% from 2022 to 2032. If you’re interested in this field, enrolling in a CNA program is a practical first step. Below are 10 CNA programs in and around San Jose, California.

1.

5671 Santa Teresa Blvd #212, San Jose, CA 95123 (408) 677-8443

Golden Heart School of Nursing offers a 21-day Nurse Assistant Training Program that combines classroom lessons, hands-on skills labs, and clinical experience. The program prepares students for patient care work and focuses on compassionate nursing assistant training.

  • Cost: $1,900 USD
  • Program Length: 21 days
  • Prerequisites: Clear background check and drug test, high school diploma or GED, TB test and health screening

2.

1535 Landess Ave STE 103, Milpitas, CA 95035 (408) 256-0763

CAL ACE Nursing Academy offers CNA training with a 6-week online course option and a 4-week on-campus option. Students can also earn NATP certification and Continuing Education Units. The program includes instructor support, small class sizes, and hands-on experience at care facilities.

  • Cost: $1,948 USD includes uniform, BLS, books, stethoscope, BP machine, cap, and gown
  • Program Length: 4 to 6 weeks
  • Prerequisites: Clear background check, minimum age of 16, TB test

3.

7567 Amador Valley Blvd #108, Dublin, CA 94568 (925) 744-5006

Bay Area CNA School offers hands-on CNA training with instructors, small classes, skills labs, clinical rotations, and exam preparation. The program is designed to help students build the patient care skills needed to enter the nursing assistant workforce.

  • Cost: $1,700 to $1,800 USD
  • Program Length: 4 to 11 weeks
  • Prerequisites: Clear background check, high school diploma or GED, negative TB test

4.

3095 Yerba Buena Rd, San Jose, CA 95135 (408) 274-7900

Evergreen Valley College’s CNA program prepares students for certification and patient care work. The program includes 200 hours of classroom lectures, skills labs, and clinical rotations. Students learn essential care skills and can enroll through the college without a separate program application.

  • Cost: $796 to $891 USD
  • Program Length: 6 to 8 weeks
  • Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED, valid SSN/Tax ID, clear background check, health clearance

5.

3000 Mission College Blvd, Santa Clara, CA 95054 (408) 855-5374

Mission College offers a Certified Nursing Assistant program with 160 hours of classroom learning, hands-on skills practice, and clinical training. Students learn tasks such as monitoring vital signs, assisting with feeding, providing bedside care, supporting safety, and communicating professionally.

The program offers affordable tuition and supplies for less than $1,000. Small class sizes and instructor support help students prepare for certification and patient care work in healthcare settings.

  • Cost: Less than $1,000 USD
  • Program Length: 6 to 8 weeks
  • Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED, background check

6.

3286 S White Rd, San Jose, CA 95148 (877) 889-2424

Aprende Health Careers Institute offers flexible CNA certification programs, including a 5-week full-time program, an 8-week evening course, and an 11-weekend option. Students learn through instructor-led training, hands-on skills labs, and clinical settings.

The school has more than 15 years of experience and more than 10,000 CNA graduates. Its training is designed to help students prepare for certification exams and healthcare employment.

  • Cost: $1,750 USD
  • Program Length: 5 weeks to 11 weekends
  • Prerequisites: Clear background check, high school diploma or GED, ability to pass physical exam

7.

6155 Almaden Expy #130, San Jose, CA 95120 (831) 809-1439

Caring Hands School of Nursing offers CNA training that combines online lessons with in-person training and clinical rotations. In 4 to 6 weeks, students learn skills such as monitoring vital signs, assisting with mobility, supporting medical procedures, and practicing professionalism.

The school offers an easy enrollment process, tuition under $2,100 including materials, job search support, and exam preparation.

  • Cost: $2,000 + $100 non-refundable registration fee USD
  • Program Length: 4 to 6 weeks
  • Prerequisites: 16+ years of age, government-issued photo ID, clear background check, physical exam, negative TB test

8.

1913 O'Toole Way, San Jose, CA 95131 (408) 661-8774

Edward Medical Training Center offers CNA certification and allied health training led by experienced medical professionals. The program combines classroom teaching, hands-on practice, and clinical experience. Students learn skills such as taking vital signs, assisting with mobility, performing treatments, and improving communication.

  • Cost: Not provided
  • Program Length: Not provided
  • Prerequisites: Not provided

9.

1590 Oakland Rd Suite D201, San Jose, CA 95131 (408) 705-7648

S.J. Institute of Nursing offers a California-approved CNA program that combines classroom learning with more than 100 clinical hours. Students learn patient monitoring, mobility assistance, documentation, and professional conduct. The program also includes certification exam preparation.

Flexible schedules range from 4 to 13 weeks, with full-time and part-time options.

  • Cost: Not provided
  • Program Length: 4 to 13 weeks
  • Prerequisites: Not provided

10.

589 W Fremont Ave, Sunnyvale, CA 94087 (408) 522-2700

FUHSD Adult School offers a Certified Nursing Assistant program that prepares students for state certification and healthcare work. The program combines classroom lessons with hands-on training and covers skills such as patient monitoring, hygiene assistance, medical procedure support, and communication.

  • Cost: $650 USD
  • Program Length: Not provided
  • Prerequisites: Not provided

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the admission requirements for CNA classes in San Jose?

To start a CNA program, you typically need to be at least 16 to 18 years old. Common requirements include a high school diploma or GED, background check, proof of health and immunization, valid ID, and basic English proficiency through coursework or testing.

What should I look for when choosing a CNA program?

Compare cost, program length, schedule, class format, clinical training, instructor qualifications, exam pass rates, career support, class size, financial aid options, and whether the program is state-approved.

Why is state approval important for CNA programs?

State approval matters because it shows that a program meets the training standards and required hours needed for eligibility to take the state certification exam.

How much do CNA programs usually cost in San Jose?

CNA programs in San Jose generally cost between $800 and $2,500, depending on the school and program format. Students may also need to pay for textbooks, uniforms, supplies, and exam fees.

How long does it take to complete a CNA program?

CNA programs in San Jose can take 4 to 18 weeks. Accelerated programs may finish in about 4 weeks, while part-time evening or weekend options may take longer. Total training hours often range from 120 to 200.

What’s the job outlook and average salary for CNAs in San Jose?

The job outlook for CNAs in San Jose is strong because of healthcare demand and an aging population. CNA salaries in the area vary by employer, experience, shift, and facility type.

Next Step

Compare state approval, cost, schedule, clinical requirements, and exam eligibility before choosing a CNA program in or around San Jose. A state-approved program can help you build the hands-on skills needed to qualify for certification and begin patient care work.

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