Free and Funded CNA Training in Memphis
WIOA, SNAP E&T, AJC vouchers, and payment plans — many students pay $0 out of pocket.
Multiple pathways cover part or all of CNA tuition in Memphis. Career Academy works with WIOA, SNAP E&T, AJC, and employer sponsors to make training accessible — many students pay $0 out of pocket for the $1,350 all-inclusive program.
Last updated: April 2026
Not sure if you qualify for funded training? Apply and we'll help you find out.
Apply Now — Check Your Funding OptionsIs CNA Training Really Free?
Honest answer: it depends on your situation. Some programs at hospitals or healthcare systems offer free CNA training in exchange for a work commitment after certification — typically 1–2 years at that facility.
Career Academy's program is $1,350 all-inclusive — but many of our students pay nothing out of pocket. WIOA and SNAP E&T can fully cover tuition for eligible students, with no employment commitment required. You can work wherever you want after you graduate.
For students who don't qualify for full funding, we offer a payment plan and accept debit cards with no convenience fee. See all options on our tuition assistance page.
Funding Sources Compared
| Source | Covers | Who Qualifies | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| WIOA (American Job Center) | Up to 100% tuition | Unemployed/underemployed Shelby County residents | Visit AJC at 1350 Concourse Ave |
| SNAP E&T | Up to 100% tuition | Current SNAP recipients | Through DHS caseworker |
| AJC Individual Training Account | Up to $10,000 | Memphis residents in approved programs | AJC enrollment |
| Employer sponsorship | Varies | Employees of partner organizations | Through employer HR |
| Payment plan | 3 × $450 | All students | Automatic at enrollment |
| Debit/credit card | Full or partial | All students | $0 fee on debit |
How to Check Your Eligibility
Visit your local American Job Center
The Memphis AJC is located at 1350 Concourse Ave, Suite 668, Memphis, TN 38104. Walk-ins welcome. No appointment needed to start the process.
Bring photo ID and proof of income
A government-issued photo ID and recent pay stubs or benefit statements are the typical requirements to get started.
Ask about healthcare training vouchers
Specifically ask about Individual Training Accounts (ITA) and whether CNA training at Career Academy qualifies. It does — we are an approved WIOA provider.
Apply to Career Academy
Submit your application online. We'll help match you with the right funding source based on your situation — WIOA, SNAP E&T, employer sponsor, or payment plan.
What $1,350 Includes
Career Academy's $1,350 is all-inclusive. Here's exactly what it covers — no surprises at enrollment:
- Tuition (120 hours classroom + clinical)
- Textbooks and study materials
- Supplies
- Background check
- State test registration (TMU portal)
- No hidden fees
See the full program schedule on our CNA classes in Memphis page.
Memphis CNA employment: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Memphis employs approximately 3,830 CNAs with a median salary of $35,950 — above the Tennessee statewide median of $34,850. Healthcare is one of the most stable employment sectors in the region. See full CNA salary data for Memphis.
Memphis CNA Program Cost Comparison
CNA programs in Memphis range from roughly $650 to $1,665 depending on the school. Career Academy at $1,350 is mid-range — but unlike lower-cost programs, our tuition includes textbooks, supplies, background check, and state test registration. Many programs charge separately for these, making the true cost higher than their advertised price.
When you compare total out-of-pocket cost (not just the headline tuition), Career Academy is competitive — and with WIOA or SNAP E&T, the cost to you can be $0.
See If You Qualify for Funded Training
No payment required to apply. Takes 15 minutes.
No Funding? No Problem — Payment Plans Available
If you don't qualify for WIOA, SNAP E&T, or employer sponsorship, Career Academy offers a built-in payment plan with no interest and no fees:
3-payment plan
$450 due in week 1, $450 in week 2, $450 in week 3 of class. Nothing before your first day.
Debit and credit cards accepted
We accept debit and credit cards. No convenience fee on debit card payments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there completely free CNA classes in Memphis?
Yes, some hospitals and facilities offer free training in exchange for work commitments. Career Academy's $1,350 program can also be fully funded through WIOA or SNAP E&T with no work commitment required.
How do I get WIOA funding for CNA training?
Visit the American Job Center at 1350 Concourse Ave, Suite 668, Memphis, TN 38104. Bring ID and proof of income. Ask about Individual Training Accounts for healthcare programs. Career Academy is an approved WIOA training provider.
Can I use SNAP benefits to pay for CNA school?
Yes. SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) can cover CNA tuition for current SNAP recipients. Contact your DHS caseworker to ask about education and training benefits.
What does Career Academy's tuition include?
The $1,350 covers everything: 120 hours of instruction, textbooks, supplies, background check, and state test registration. There are no hidden fees or extra costs.
Do I need to pay anything before class starts?
No. Career Academy does not require payment before your first day of class. Payment plans begin in week 1 of your cohort.
What if I don't qualify for any funding?
Career Academy offers a 3-payment plan ($450 x 3, due weeks 1, 2, and 3). We also accept debit and credit cards with no convenience fee on debit transactions.
Ready to Start? Apply in 15 Minutes.
No payment required to apply. We'll help you understand your funding options before class starts. New cohorts begin every month.
Questions about the program? See class schedules and program details →
Written by Career Academy staff — CNA educators with 10+ years of experience training nursing assistants in Memphis, TN.