CNA Training vs. Nursing School: What’s the Difference?


Admin • May 7, 2025
A group of medical students are posing for a picture in a lecture hall.

If you’re thinking about a career in healthcare, you might be wondering whether you should go to nursing school or start with CNA training. Here’s the good news: you don’t have to choose right away. Many successful nurses start as Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs) to gain experience, save money, and build confidence in the field.

Let’s break it down:


Time Commitment

- Nursing School: 2 to 4 years

- CNA Training at Xcellerated: Just 13 days (or 15 evenings)


If you're eager to start working fast, CNA training is the clear choice.


Cost

- Nursing School: $5,000–$50,000+

- Xcellerated Nurse Aide Training: $850 (all inclusive)


That means no debt and no delay.


Career Options

- As a CNA, you can work in nursing homes, hospitals, rehab centers, and home care.

- Many CNAs go on to become LVNs or RNs with real experience under their belt.


Hands-On Experience

Our CNA students start learning day one with real patient care skills:

- Transferring residents

- Feeding, bathing, and dressing

- Taking vital signs

- Supporting nurses in clinical settings


The Smart First Step

If you’re not 100% sure nursing is for you — CNA training is a low-cost, high-reward way to test the waters and still land a real healthcare job.


At Xcellerated Nurse Aide Training, we’re proud to help students take their first step in nursing — fast and confidently.


Ready to start? Our next class is starting soon.

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