Medical Assistant Application Process

Eligibility Requirements
  • This class requires verification that you are a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. Eligibility must be verified before registration.
  • Students must be at least 18 years old to participate in clinicals (per clinical site guidelines).

  • Students must have a high school diploma or GED (or be within 12 months of completing one). Please note: the national certification exam cannot be taken without proof of completion.

Application to program

Submit the following:

  • Cover letter
  • Resume
  • Proof of high school completion (diploma, transcript, GED, or HSE)
  • Typing test score (recommended: 35 WPM)
  • Results from all required Northstar Digital Literacy assessments:
    • Basic Computer Skills
    • Internet Basics
    • Using Email
    • Windows 10
    • Microsoft Word
    • Microsoft Excel
    • Microsoft PowerPoint
      • Note: Creating an account with Northstar is not required to take the tests
  • Optional: Professional headshot

Apply here: Medical Assistant Application

Important: Students in the noncredit pathway cannot later switch to the credit pathway.

CMA Program - Additional Costs Overview

As you plan for participation in the CMA Program, please review the attached cost overview for additional items that may be required throughout the program. These expenses can include supplies, certification-related fees, uniforms, equipment, testing costs, and other program-specific requirements. The attached document provides a detailed breakdown of these anticipated costs to help you prepare and budget accordingly.

CMA Additional Cost Overview

Funding Assistance Available:
Students may be eligible for support through Idaho Launch, which can help cover the cost of certain program-related expenses. 

 

Certifications Eligible Upon Completion
Certification 
Provider 
Websites
CCMA (Certified Clinical Medical Assistant)
NHA
RMA (Registered Medical Assistant)
AMT
NCMA (National Certified Medical Assistant)
NCCT
CMA (Certified Medical Assistant) Alternate Pathway
AAMA
medical assistant student with instructor kara mahannah

Medical Assisting Level 1: Foundations

Build a solid foundation in medicial assistant knowledge and hands-on skills including, medical office procedures, human diseases, and clinical procedures. 

16 week in-person session

Learn More
Medical Assisting 2

Medical Assisting 2: Advanced Skills

Demonstrate critical thinking, effective and empathetic communication, ethical and legal awareness, and safety practices while providing patient care and interacting professionally with patients, staff, providers, and third-party payers in a medical office setting.

10 week in-person session

Learn More
Medical Assisting 3

Medical Assisting 3: Practicum

Students complete a 180-hour unpaid practicum in an ambulatory healthcare setting, where they are supervised and evaluated on clinical and administrative competencies, maintain daily communication and records, keep a practicum journal, and complete an exit interview upon completion.

6 week in-person session

Learn More

Idaho LAUNCH

The Medical Assistant Program (Levels 1–3) is eligible for Idaho LAUNCH funding, which can cover up to 80% of your program costs—including fees. That means you can take a big step toward a rewarding career in healthcare without the full financial burden.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain in-demand skills, hands-on training, and real-world experience—all while saving big on your education. Your future in healthcare starts here!

Apply Today!

Job Outlook: Great!

Bureau of Labor Statistics shows strong demand for Medical Assistants 

Read More