Frequently asked questions
I would like to enroll in a winter or spring Nursing Assistant course. How do I apply?
The winter and spring Nursing Assistant courses are full. Please check the Nursing Assistant page at the end of January for updates about future courses and application processes.
I’d like to enroll in a summer course. When can I apply for it?
Our program is currently in the planning stages regarding courses and application processes after spring term. Please check the Nursing Assistant page at the end of January for updates about future courses and application processes.
Can the grant cover my tuition or fees?
The Future Ready Oregon grant covers students’ tuition and fees through June 30, 2026. However, the winter and spring courses offered during this grant period are full. Future courses will be held after the grant period, and students will be responsible for paying for tuition and fees.
Starting fall term 2026, the Nursing Assistant program will offer a credit course. See PCC’s financial aid and scholarships webpages for information on financial support.
Is a high school diploma or GED® needed to participate in the course or become a certified nursing assistant?
A high school diploma or GED® is not a requirement for the PCC Nursing Assistant program. required to be a nursing assistant. However, please see the Nursing Assistant page, particularly our program readiness and standards page, for information regarding the educational level recommended to be successful in the program.
A high school diploma or GED is not needed for the Oregon State Board of Nursing CNA certification examination.
With regard to employment as a nursing assistant, it does vary from employer to employer, whether a high school diploma or GED® is required for employment. It seems that hospitals are more strict with this requirement, while assisted living facilities may be more open to working with those without a high school diploma or GED®.
What is the age requirement to start the NA program?
The Nursing Assistant program primarily accepts students 18 and up. However, some facilities accept students in clinical placements as young as 16 with a parental signature. Acceptance of students younger than 18 is determined on a case-by-case basis, and the availability of clinical placement sites that accept students under 18 varies.