Nurse Aide/Assistant Skills Requirement

Completion of a CNA skills course or LC State substitution (validation obtained through completing a skills-only training course or passing a skills challenge exam) is required for entry into the BSN Pre-Licensure Track. State certification is optional and encouraged. However, completion of the CNA course is the minimum requirement. NA certifications from other states meet the criteria.

Options to Fulfill BSN Entry Requirement

View upcoming CNA courses offered by Workforce Training

At the time of nursing school application (via NursingCAS.org), you must submit proof of course completion or give the date you will be completing your CNA course.

  • Completion of training is due by August 1 (for fall semester start) or January 1 (for spring semester start)
  • If you did not obtain state certification, the course must have been completed no less than 24 months from the first day of nursing classes.
  • Students who have an expired CNA certification or who wish to petition for certification must contact the state certification board.

Students holding a certification in some health-related fields may qualify for LC State substitution validation of skills through a challenge exam. NHS Advisors can provide full details and assess your eligibility. Email nhs@lcsc.edu or call 208-792-2688 for details.

This exam is for those who feel they can challenge and pass a CNA skills test and are a certified provider in another medical field (i.e. Medical Assistant, EMT, Paramedic, Respiratory Therapist, Military Medic or Corpsman).

LC State substitution validation is accepted for up to 24 months from the date of issuance.

We allow two attempts, and the cost is approximately $95 per attempt. After an advisor determines your eligibility, wait to schedule the challenge until after admission decisions have been made.

Neither the Challenge nor the Skills Only Training class qualifies the student for the CNA state registry or eligibility to be titled or work as a certified nursing assistant.

This option is for those who do not meet Challenge requirements and have not completed a traditional Nursing Aide/Assistant course. Cost and offerings for this course vary. Please contact nhs@lcsc.edu for details.

Details:

  • In-Person course, located in Lewiston, Idaho
  • 36 hours of skill training to meet basic entry-level nursing skills
  • Skills test based on a standardized list
  • Two attempts are allowed to pass the test
  • LC State substitution validation is accepted for up to 24 months from the date of issuance
  • Typically offered in January and August. A May course may be offered as needed.
  • Seats are limited, and this option should be considered only if no other CNA courses are available.

Neither the Challenge nor the Skills Only Training class qualifies the student for the CNA state registry or eligibility to be titled or work as a certified nursing assistant.