Next Generation Nursing Assistant: Train. Test. Work.
Ready to start a career in senior care? The Train. Test. Work. program offers free training and testing for Minnesotans who are ready to work as nursing assistants.
Nursing assistants are essential to Minnesota’s healthcare system. That's why the state is funding the Next Generation Nursing Assistant: Train. Test. Work. initiative to fill these critical roles in senior care.
If you’re ready to begin (or restart) a rewarding career in healthcare, this program is for you! It provides focused, ready-to-work training and opportunities to connect with employers who have immediate openings. Many participants receive job offers before completing their certification exams.
Before enrolling, make sure this program is a good fit. Read the requirements below:
Program requirements for eligible applicants:
- Must be over 16, and legally able to work in the U.S. (Minnesota).
- Must be interested in and plan on accepting a long-term care position in Minnesota after completing the program. If you are not ready to work immediately, please wait or consider a different training program.
- Must be in good physical condition. Nursing assistants frequently move patients and have other physically demanding tasks, such as bathing, grooming, toileting, walking, exercising, and feeding patients.
- Not currently working in healthcare.
- Must be able to pass a Department of Human Services background study.
- Must complete the vaccine and tuberculosis testing requirements of their employer.
- Must attend mandatory orientation, all class sessions, and testing.
- Must complete and pass a knowledge test and a skills test to be added to the Minnesota Nursing Assistant Registry and seek employment.
- For hybrid courses, applicants must provide their own computer and internet access to participate in online courses.
How do I sign up for training?
- Show up (virtually) and attend a Train. Test. Work. Information Session.
- Complete the eligibility survey.
- Register for class when you receive the campus email.
- Attend and participate in all class sessions, orientation, and employer events.
Steps are time-sensitive, so please check your email regularly to complete them on time. Classes fill up fast, and there are a limited number of sessions across the state.
If you can't get into a class, don’t worry—there are other ways to start your career as a nursing assistant!
- Did you know that over two-thirds of our Train. Test. Work. employer partners cover the costs of nursing assistant training and testing? Your journey could begin by simply reaching out to a local employer. Additionally, contact your local Minnesota CareerForce Center to explore training and support programs.
- For more resources and guidance on starting your caregiving career, visit Caring Careers Start Here.
