The Nirvana Institute offers an accelerated CNA program designed to be completed in just 25 days, making it one of the quickest options in the Chicago area. With a tuition cost of $1,600, this program includes all required books and uniforms, ensuring students don’t face hidden expenses. Compared to other CNA schools, which often charge upwards of $2,700 to $3,500 and stretch over 10 to 16 weeks, The Nirvana Institute provides a faster, more affordable path to entering the healthcare field.
Class Schedule and Program Format
The Nirvana Institute offers both morning and evening classes to accommodate different schedules. At the West Campus, students can choose between an 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM morning session or a 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM evening session, with clinicals held on Fridays or Saturdays. The South Campus has similar options, with morning classes running from 9:00 AM to 1:30 PM and evening classes from 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM. Clinicals for South Campus students are also conducted on Fridays or Saturdays. Both campuses ensure that students receive hands-on experience in real-world healthcare settings, combining classroom instruction with clinical practice.
Program Length and Structure
Students can expect to complete their CNA training within five weeks. The program integrates a balance of theoretical learning and clinical experience, covering essential topics such as patient care, safety, privacy, anatomy, and basic nursing skills. Additionally, students receive training in CPR through the American Heart Association, with the option to acquire a CPR card for $50. Upon completion, students qualify to take the State Board Exam, though the exam fee of $75 is not included in the tuition.
Accreditations and Job Placement
The Nirvana Institute is approved by both the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE), the two essential accreditations required to run a CNA program. These credentials ensure that the training provided meets the state's strict standards for healthcare education. Another key selling point for prospective students is the Institute’s job placement assistance, which helps graduates find employment in healthcare settings upon completion of the program.
Tuition and Payment Plans
At $1,600, the tuition at The Nirvana Institute is highly competitive, especially given that books and uniforms are included. For students unable to pay the full amount upfront, the Institute offers two payment plan options. The bi-weekly payment plan allows students to pay in two installments of $500 after an initial deposit of $600. The weekly plan breaks the payments into four installments of $250, spread over the first four weeks of the program.
Additional Considerations
Students should be aware of a few additional costs, including a mandatory $50 fingerprinting fee required by IDPH on the first day of class. Additionally, while financial aid is not available, The Nirvana Institute accepts Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIA/WIOA) funding, which may provide financial assistance to qualifying students.
The Nirvana Institute provides a streamlined, affordable pathway to becoming a CNA, with flexible scheduling, job placement assistance, and a program that meets all state accreditation standards. For students seeking a fast, affordable entry into healthcare, The Nirvana Institute offers a compelling option.
