High School Diploma

• Before you start your training as a CNA, you must generally have obtained a high school diploma or a GED. A high school education generally includes classes in English, math, languages and social studies which can all benefit you as you begin your CNA career. Although specific courses are not requested for entry into CNA programs, you should consider taking health-care related classes before you enter the program to broaden your knowledge.
  
  

State Requirements

• Most states require CNAs to become state-registered before allowing them to practice. Each state differs according to what courses they require to become certified and you may be able to take training in one of many areas. For example, in the state of Illinois, you have many options for training to be a state-registered CNA: complete a state approved CNA training program, complete a nursing arts course in college, complete military training as a nurse aide, or complete a foreign Registered Nurse program.
  
  

Community College Training

• Some community colleges offer CNA training as part of a two-year degree or as a solo course. The CNA course itself is generally short -- about 160 hours, depending upon state requirements -- and usually involves classroom instruction, laboratory sessions and clinical experience in a hospital or nursing home.
  
  

Additional Requirements

• Coursework alone does not qualify you to work as a CNA. Each state differs, but you may have to meet other requirements, such as passing a criminal history records check, general background check and credit check. In addition, you may have to prove you can speak and understand English or another language dominant in your particular state. Some states may require you to provide several years of employment and residence information.