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New short‑term health‑care training programs start in New York City this summer
Several short‑term health‑care training programmes launch in New York City this summer, beginning in August 2026, targeting residents and immigrants seeking entry‑level roles. The courses cover medical assisting, community health work, certified nursing aide, and medical coding, with some offering tuition grants for eligible participants.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- New short‑term health‑care training courses start in August 2026
- Timing
- Courses begin between August and the end of summer 2026
- Who is affected
- Residents, immigrants and low‑income individuals in New York City
The details
- Takes effect
- August 2026
Program overview
The city’s health‑care sector faces a shortage of nurses and allied professionals. To address this, a range of short‑term training programmes are being offered, lasting from 12 weeks to 12 months depending on the field. Options include medical assistant, community health worker, certified nursing aide, and medical coding and billing.
- Medical assistant programmes run 12 weeks full‑time or 24 weeks part‑time.
- Community health worker courses last 3 to 6 months.
- Certified nursing aide training spans 4 to 12 weeks and includes a state competency exam.
- Medical coding and billing certification takes 4 to 12 months.
Eligibility and financial support
Applicants must provide a valid photo ID such as a passport, driver’s licence or state ID. Specific programmes require proof of immigration status or a work authorization. Individuals with a GED or high‑school diploma earning less than $91,000 annually may apply for an Individual Training Grant that can cover tuition, fees, books and related expenses.
- Grant eligibility: GED or high‑school diploma, income below $91,000 per year.
- Grant can pay course fees, registration, books and other training costs.
- Proof of immigration status or work authorization is required for community health worker certification.
Enrollment timeline and locations
The next cohort for certified nursing aide training in Queens starts in August 2026, with in‑person information sessions at the Commonpoint Silver Hub in Elmhurst. A separate cohort for a broader age range (18‑40) will begin at the end of summer 2026 in the Bronx. Applications are accepted online, and interested candidates should attend the required information session before enrolling.
- Queens CNA program: classes begin August 2026, information session required.
- Bronx CNA program: classes start late summer 2026, open to ages 18‑40.
- Medical assistant and community health worker programmes are offered through Workforce1, CUNY, Hostos Community College and LaGuardia Community College.
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Travelers already in New York can attend in‑person information sessions without needing additional visas.
- Those planning to move to New York for training should arrange accommodation before the August start dates.
Cost and documents
- Applicants must bring a valid photo ID and, where required, proof of immigration status or work authorization.
- Eligible low‑income applicants can apply for an Individual Training Grant to cover tuition and related expenses.
What you need to do
- Register for the required information session at Commonpoint Silver Hub before enrolling in the Queens CNA program.
- Submit online applications for the desired programme and upload required identification documents.
- If applying for a grant, provide income verification showing earnings below $91,000 per year.
Who this affects
-
Low‑income residents with GED or high‑school diploma
They qualify for the Individual Training Grant that can cover tuition and related costs.
What to do Submit grant application through Workforce1 or a career centre and provide income documentation.
-
Immigrants with valid work authorization
Proof of immigration status or work authorization is required for community health worker certification.
What to do Provide a valid immigration document when applying for the Community Health Worker Certificate Training Program.
-
Young adults aged 18‑40 interested in CNA training
Both the Queens and Bronx certified nursing aide programmes accept participants in this age range.
What to do Attend the mandatory in‑person information session and complete the online enrollment form.
Frequently asked questions
When do the new health‑care training programmes start in New York City?
The programmes begin in August 2026, with some courses running through the end of the summer season.
Who can apply for the Individual Training Grant?
Applicants who hold a GED or high‑school diploma and earn less than $91,000 annually are eligible for the grant.
What identification is required to enroll in the community health worker program?
A valid photo ID such as a passport, driver’s licence or state ID, plus proof of immigration status or work authorization.
Are there age limits for the certified nursing aide courses?
Yes, the Queens cohort accepts participants aged 18‑24, while the Bronx cohort allows ages 18‑40.
Where can I find information sessions for the CNA program in Queens?
Information sessions are held at the Commonpoint Silver Hub in Elmhurst, Queens, and attendance is required before enrollment.
