Accelerated CNA Programs in Northern Virginia: Finish in Just 4 Weeks
Finding a fast-track CNA program that actually fits your schedule—and your budget—can be tough in the Washington DC metro area. Many schools stretch training out over months or only offer limited class times. But if you’re ready to launch your healthcare career now, there are several Northern Virginia-based programs that meet Virginia Board of Nursing requirements and can help you get certified in as little as four weeks.
These state-approved programs combine classroom instruction, lab practice, and hands-on clinical experience—all completed within a month. Each option varies in cost, format, and flexibility, so the best fit depends on your personal needs and goals.
Here are a few standout programs in Northern Virginia:
1. CNN American Global Institute
The CNA program runs for 4 weeks and includes a total of 140 hours of instruction—classroom, lab, and clinical training. Classes are offered in both morning and evening formats. Morning sessions run Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for three weeks, followed by one week of clinicals from 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Evening classes take place Monday to Friday from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. for four weeks, with the same clinical schedule during the fifth week. Tuition is currently discounted to $1,300 and includes books, lab supplies, CPR, liability insurance, and parking.
Graduates receive a certificate of completion and are eligible to sit for the NNAAP exam to become a Certified Nurse Aide in Virginia. The school notes that hybrid evening classes may be available in the future—students should call to confirm availability. Basic eligibility includes being 18 or older and able to read and write English at an 8th-grade level.
| Category | Details |
| Duration | 4 weeks (Day); 5 weeks (Evening) |
| Format | In-person with classroom, lab, and clinical training; potential for hybrid (call to confirm) |
| Schedules | Day: Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (class), 7:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (clinical); Evening: Mon–Fri, 5:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m. (class), 7:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (clinical) |
| Address | 6202-C Old Franconia Road, Alexandria, VA 22310 |
| Phone | 571-276-7640 |
2. Medical Learning Center
The Nurse Aide program at Medical Learning Center in Fairfax runs 4 weeks for full-time day classes and 5.5 weekends for part-time weekend classes. Day classes include three weeks of classroom/lab work from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., followed by one week of clinical training from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Weekend classes follow a similar structure but take place on Saturdays and Sundays.
The program totals 140 hours—100 hours of lectures/labs and 40 hours of clinicals—and prepares students to take the state CNA exam. Tuition is $1,050, which covers books, uniform, CPR certification, liability insurance, and lab supplies. A $50 application fee is included in that total. Payment plans are available, and Virginia residents may qualify for WIA/WIB tuition assistance.
Graduates receive a certificate and access to employment assistance such as resume help and referrals. Job placement is not guaranteed. Evening classes are not currently offered.
| Category | Details |
| Duration | 4 weeks (Day class); 5.5 weekends (Weekend class) |
| Format | In-person (classroom, lab, and clinical training) |
| Schedules | Day: Mon–Fri, 8:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m. (lecture/lab), 7:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m. (clinical); Weekend: Sat–Sun, 8:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m. (lecture/lab), 7:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m. (clinical) |
| Address | 2720 Prosperity Avenue, Suite 400-2, Fairfax, VA 22031 |
| Phone | (703) 573-2331 |
3. 1st Providence
The CNA program at 1st Providence offers both 3-week and 6-week options, depending on the student’s selected schedule. The total training includes 155 hours: 75 hours of classroom or hybrid instruction, 35 hours of lab work, and 45 hours of clinical training. Day classes run Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Evening classes are also available.
Students can choose from in-person, virtual, or hybrid formats. The program is approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing and qualifies graduates to take the NNAAP exam to become Certified Nurse Aides. Class sizes are capped at 15 students to maintain a focused learning environment.
The total cost is $1,300, which includes a $1,200 tuition fee and a $100 registration fee. A $500 down payment is required at enrollment. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, able to read and write English, and provide CPR certification and a TB test.
| Category | Details |
| Duration | 3 or 6 weeks (155 total hours) |
| Format | In-person, virtual, or hybrid |
| Schedules | Monday–Thursday, 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. (Day); evening options also available |
| Address | 1549 Old Bridge Road, Unit 208, Woodbridge, VA 22192 |
| Phone | 571-494-0032 |
4. Classic Nurses Academy
The CNA program at Classic Nurses Academy in Alexandria runs for 4 weeks and includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. Students can choose between day classes from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. or evening sessions from 4:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Hybrid class options are listed, but specific details are limited—interested students are encouraged to call for more information.
Tuition is $1,400, and the school offers job placement assistance after program completion. Multiple start dates are available throughout the year, making it easier to find a schedule that fits. Class content covers patient care, safety, communication, and essential nursing skills.
The academy requires students to complete all program components to be eligible for certification.
| Category | Details |
| Duration | 4 weeks |
| Format | In-person with classroom and clinical training; hybrid option available (call for details) |
| Schedules | Day: 9:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m.; Evening: 4:00 p.m.–10:30 p.m. |
| Address | 85 S Bragg St #601, Alexandria, VA 22312 |
| Phone | (703) 658-9575 |
🔍 Easily Compare CNA Programs
We’ve handpicked top CNA programs in Washington DC and the surrounding DMV area—including accelerated, part-time, and even online options—to help you find the right fit, faster.
Choosing a CNA program in the DC metro area can feel overwhelming—there are lots of options, and each school has its own mix of pros and cons. So what would we do? Here’s our honest, no-fluff advice based on your most common priorities: speed, affordability, and flexibility.
If Speed Is Your Top Priority
You’re ready to move fast—maybe you’re switching careers, under a deadline, or just tired of waiting. In that case, CNN American Global Institute and Classic Nurses Academy are your best bets.
- CNN American Global Institute finishes in just 4 weeks, with full-day or evening classes. It’s intense but fast. They also clearly lay out their schedule and curriculum so you know what to expect.
- Classic Nurses Academy is also a 4-week program with multiple start dates and evening class availability—perfect if you’re trying to get certified before the next job hiring cycle.
👉 What to ask: How many students pass the exam on the first try? Are job leads offered after graduation?
If Affordability Matters Most
Let’s be real—price matters, especially when you’re trying to get certified and into the workforce without taking on debt. If you’re budget-conscious, check out Medical Learning Center and Excel Health Institute.
- Medical Learning Center is just $1,050 all-in, and that price includes books, CPR certification, and your uniform. Plus, they offer free state-funded tuition for eligible Virginia residents—huge win.
- Excel Health Institute isn’t the cheapest upfront at $1,799, but their fast-track hybrid options and high pass rates make it a solid investment if you value structure and flexibility.
👉 What to ask: Are there payment plans? Do you help with the state exam application fee? What’s covered in the price?
If Flexibility Is the Dealbreaker
Got a job? Kids? A chaotic schedule? You’ll want a program that works around your life, not the other way around. In this case, Excel Health Institute and 1st Providence rise to the top.
- Excel Health Institute offers self-paced online hybrid formats and weekend in-person labs, so you can make progress without quitting your job. Plus, they have frequent start dates.
- 1st Providence lets you choose from 3- or 6-week programs, with hybrid and in-person options. They also keep classes small for more individual attention.
👉 What to ask: What happens if I miss a class? Can I switch between day and evening tracks if my schedule changes?
Final Thoughts: Choosing What’s Right for You
There’s no “best” program overall—just the one that fits your situation. If you’re in a hurry, lean into speed. If your budget is tight, prioritize cost. If your schedule’s messy, go flexible. But don’t stop at reading websites—pick up the phone and call the schools.
Ask things like:
- What’s the class-to-instructor ratio?
- What help do you offer for passing the CNA exam?
- Do you offer any job placement support—or just resume tips?
These conversations often reveal things you won’t find online, and that insight can make all the difference.
Our Bottom Line Recommendation:
- Fastest Option: CNN American Global Institute
- Best Value for Price: Medical Learning Center
- Most Flexible: Excel Health Institute
- Balanced Pick (Speed + Placement + Flexibility): Classic Nurses Academy
Take the time to ask questions and find your match—it’s worth the extra step to make sure your training leads to a real job and a solid start in healthcare.