All Programs ❯ General FAQs
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Have questions? We're here to help you navigate your program from enrollment through completion.
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Getting Started & Enrollment
How do I enroll, and when will I receive access?
To enroll, visit the program page and complete the registration process. Once your enrollment is confirmed, you'll receive your login information by email so you can begin accessing your course materials.
Are there set start dates?
No. This program offers rolling enrollment, so you can begin whenever you're ready. Once you enroll, you'll have up to one year to complete the course.
How long does the program take to complete?
The program is self-paced, and you'll have up to one year to complete it. While completion times vary, many students finish within 3-6 months depending on their schedule and the time they dedicate to the coursework.
Do I need any prior experience in this field to get started?
Our programs are designed for beginners, so you don't need previous healthcare experience to get started. Our curriculum is designed to help you develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to prepare for your next career opportunity.
What should I know about the externship?
Most externships require a minimum of 300-400 hours, completed on a part-time basis. Depending on the clinical site, your availability, and the program, those hours are typically completed over 15–20 weeks. Externships are typically unpaid, and schedules are coordinated with the clinical site to accommodate both your availability and the site's needs whenever possible.
Are there age requirements to enroll?
There is no minimum or maximum age requirement to enroll in the program. However, students must be at least 18 years old to participate in an externship.
I'm an international student. Can I enroll in the program?
Yes. International students are welcome to enroll. Please note that the program is designed to prepare students for U.S.-based certification exams where applicable. Externships are available only at clinical sites within the United States, and any physical course materials included with the program can only be shipped to U.S. addresses.
Is this program available in my state?
Program availability and certification requirements can vary by state. While this program is available to students in most states and prepares students for widely recognized certifications where applicable, some states have additional requirements or restrictions. If you have questions about eligibility in your state, please contact us before enrolling so we can help confirm your options.
I'm really busy. Can I do this program on the side while working full-time?
Our programs are designed with busy adults in mind. Whether you're working full time, raising a family, or balancing other responsibilities, you can complete your coursework on a schedule that works for you.
Because the programs are self-paced, you can move through the material at a pace that fits your life. While many learners finish in 3–6 months, you'll have up to 12 months to complete your program.
Flexible, Affordable Learning at Your Pace
Program Experience & Learning
Do you offer tutoring?
Yes. If you need additional academic support, you can contact the Support team to request tutoring.
What if I'm having trouble moving on to the next lesson?
If you’re unable to advance to the next lesson, first make sure you've completed all required activities and viewed every slide in the current lesson. If you're still having trouble, contact the Support team. They can help troubleshoot the issue and determine whether anything is preventing your progress.
What if I'm having trouble logging in?
If you're having trouble logging in, try resetting your password first. If you're still unable to access your account, contact the Support team for assistance. They'll help troubleshoot the issue and get you back into your course as quickly as possible.
What if I didn't receive my welcome email?
If you don't see your welcome email, check your spam or junk folder and confirm you enrolled using the correct email address. If you're still unable to locate it, contact the Support team. They can verify your enrollment and resend your login information if needed.
What kind of support is included?
You'll have support throughout your learning journey. From your first lesson to your job search, we're here to help you succeed.
Learner Support: Get help with course content, assignments, and navigating the online learning platform whenever you need it.
Career Support: Receive guidance on resumes, interviews, and job readiness as you prepare to pursue opportunities in healthcare.
Flexible, Affordable Learning at Your Pace
Externship & Career Preparation
I've finished the program — what are my next steps?
Congratulations on completing the program! Once you've finished all required coursework and met the program completion requirements, you'll receive information about your next steps. If your program includes an externship, you'll be asked to complete a brief form so the placement team can begin identifying potential externship opportunities that align with your program and location.
What career resources are available after I complete my program?
After completing your program, you'll have access to career resources designed to help you prepare for the job search. Depending on your program, these resources may include resume support, interview preparation, job search guidance, and other tools to help you present your skills confidently to employers.
Does completing the program guarantee job placement?
No, completing the program does not guarantee employment or job placement. However, you'll have access to career resources to help you prepare for your job search, and many students go on to pursue entry-level opportunities after completing their training and meeting any applicable certification or employer requirements.
What requirements might I need to complete before an externship?
Externship requirements vary by clinical site. Depending on the location, you may be asked to complete an interview, submit additional documentation, undergo a background check or drug screening, provide immunization records, or meet other site-specific requirements. If additional steps are needed, you'll receive instructions from the placement team.
How long does it take to secure an externship?
Externship placement timelines vary for each student. Factors such as your location, program, site availability, and any clinical site requirements can affect how quickly a placement is secured. Because every placement is unique, a specific timeline cannot be guaranteed.
How will I receive updates about my externship?
You'll receive externship updates by email from the placement team. Be sure to check your inbox regularly and respond promptly to requests for information, documentation, or interviews to help keep the placement process moving forward.
What happens once an externship site is confirmed?
Once your externship site is confirmed and you've completed any required pre-placement steps, you'll receive information about your location, schedule, start date, and any site-specific onboarding requirements. During your externship, you'll be expected to follow the site's policies and complete all required hours and documentation.
Is externship placement guaranteed?
While the placement team works with eligible students to identify externship opportunities, placement cannot be guaranteed. Availability depends on factors such as your location, program, clinical site requirements, employer availability, and student readiness.
What should I do if I haven't received an externship update?
If you've completed your required intake information and haven't received an update, contact the Support team for assistance. They can check the status of your placement and connect you with the appropriate team if additional follow-up is needed.
Flexible, Affordable Learning at Your Pace
Pricing, Payment, & Financial Questions
How much does the program cost?
Program pricing varies by course. Most programs are $2,999 if paid in full or $500/month for 6 months. The total cost and any available payment plan options will be displayed during the enrollment process, so you'll be able to review your pricing before completing your registration.
Do you accept financial aid?
This program is not eligible for traditional federal financial aid or student loans. However, flexible payment plan options are available to help make the program more affordable.
What payment plan options are available?
Payment plan options vary by program. Available payment plans will be displayed during enrollment. If you have questions about your payment options or need additional flexibility, please contact the Support team after enrolling to discuss available arrangements.
Can I make changes to my payments or payment method?
Yes. If you need to update your payment method, make an early payment, review your balance, or discuss your payment schedule, contact the Support team. They'll work with you to review your options and assist with your account.
What if I'm unable to pay the full tuition amount at checkout?
If you're unable to pay the full tuition amount at checkout, contact the Support team before or after enrolling. Depending on your circumstances, additional payment arrangements may be available.
Are certification exam fees included?
Yes! The cost of your program includes an exam voucher that can be used to cover the fee for the applicable national certification exam. Additional information about redeeming your voucher will be provided during the program.
What happens if I request to cancel?
If you request to cancel your enrollment, a member of the Support team will contact you to discuss your request and explain any applicable next steps or policies.
Flexible, Affordable Learning at Your Pace
Technology & Materials
Are course materials included, or will I need to purchase textbooks or supplies?
All required digital course materials are included with your tuition at no additional cost. You'll have access to the online lessons, learning resources, quizzes, and other materials needed to complete your program. There are no required textbooks to purchase, so you can get started right away without worrying about unexpected costs.
What should I know about course materials?
Course materials vary by program. Most required materials are provided digitally through your online learning platform, while some programs may require additional textbooks or other supplemental materials. If you have questions about the materials for your specific program, contact the Support team for assistance.
Flexible, Affordable Learning at Your Pace
Extensions, Refreshers, & Timing
Can I get an extension if I need more time?
Yes. If you need additional time to complete your program, extension options may be available. Contact the Support team to discuss your eligibility and any applicable extension policies or fees.
What is the refresher course?
If more than six months pass between completing your program and beginning your externship (if applicable), you may be required to complete a refresher course before moving forward. Contact the Support team to learn whether a refresher course is required and how to regain access to your course materials.
Do you offer a refresher-only course?
No. A standalone refresher course is not available. If you need to refresh your knowledge, you may enroll in the full program, which is self-paced and allows you to focus on the material you want to review.
Flexible, Affordable Learning at Your Pace
Certifications, Exams, & Outcomes
Will this prepare me for the industry certification exam — even if I'm new to this?
Yes! Our programs are designed to help you build the knowledge and skills needed to prepare for industry certification — even if you're new to the field.
- Beginner-friendly: No prior experience required
- Career-focused: Learn the skills that matter most
- Step by step: Build your confidence as you progress
- Practice along the way: Reinforce your learning with quizzes and assessments
- Certification preparation: Curriculum aligned with applicable industry certification exams
Our goal is to help you feel confident and prepared for what's next.
What are your certification exam pass rates?
Official certification exam pass rates are generally not published by certifying organizations. Individual student outcomes vary based on factors such as prior experience, study habits, and exam preparation. This program is designed to help you build the knowledge and skills needed to prepare for the applicable national certification exam.
Are certification exam vouchers included in the cost of the program?
Yes! If your program prepares you for an industry certification, your certification exam voucher is included with tuition at no additional cost. That means you won't pay extra for the exam voucher needed to earn your credential — you can focus on completing your training and preparing for certification.
Flexible, Affordable Learning at Your Pace
Accreditation
Who awards the Certificate of Completion, and is the university accredited?
Upon successful completion of the program, you'll receive a Certificate of Completion from the University of Missouri–St. Louis (UMSL). UMSL is a regionally accredited public university, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
“If anyone asks me where to start, Preppy is the one program I’ll always vouch for. It’s the fastest and most affordable way to get your foot in the door.”
– Brandon Huffman, CST, Surgical Tech Expert



