Welcome to CapYear Academy’s Clinical Medical Assistant Training Program
Think You’re Too Busy to Get Certified?
Think Certification is Too Expensive?
Think Again.
Take advantage of our summer grant, available for the first 30 people to enroll from May to June | Use code SUMMER2025 to receive a $150 dollar discount on your enrollment!
What CapYear Academy Offers Students
Online Learning. Hands On Training.
Work with real patients
Apply the skills you have learned in a real-world setting with the support of a clinical trainer
Externship Placement Support
Our externship coordination team will help you identify a clinical site for your training
Demonstrate you are job ready
Show future employers you have the knowledge, skills and experience to care for patients
Learners
First Time CCMA Exam Pass Rate
Online
Licenses and Affiliations
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Why Choose CapYear Academy?
Lead Instructor Dr. Sami Shoucair on CapYear Academy's Innovative Medical Assistant Training Program
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Faster, more convenient, and less expensive than traditional programs, CapYear Academy’s curriculum is mapped to the National Healthcareer Association's (NHA) Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) certification exam.
CapYear Academy’s CCMA Program By the Numbers
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1:1 live instructor support when you need it
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5 expert, practicing instructors
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9 short weeks to complete training
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12-month total program access
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19 comprehensive, interactive clinical modules
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24/7 online access
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$1,995 total cost
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4 practice exams to prepare for certification
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1 payment plan to facilitate enrollment
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90 hour optional externship through CapYear
Only $1,995 for Full, 12-Month Program Access
Payment Plans Available
Go from Pre-Health Student to Practicing Professional in 4 Easy Steps
Prepare for the CCMA certification exam in as little as 9 weeks online, not 6, 9, or even 12 months
in-person, like traditional programs. Launch your healthcare career today.
in-person, like traditional programs. Launch your healthcare career today.
Sign Up for CapYear Academy
Our application takes 10 minutes to complete—faster than you can say “Pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis*.”
Applicants must have a high school degree or equivalent and access to broadband internet to enroll. A quick verification process will confirm eligibility.
Complete Our Program in as Little as 9 Weeks
CapYear Academy’s 100% online program is completely self-paced. You can finish our 19 learning modules, quizzes, and a final assessment in just 9 weeks or take up to a full year—it’s up to you and your schedule. Personalized, one-on-one interactive support from our physician, physician assistant, and nurse instructors is available if and when you need it.
CapYear Academy partners with the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), the certifying body for the CCMA certification. Our program is mapped to the NHA guidelines and leverages NHA materials to ensure you build the skills you need to be prepared for the CCMA exam and be a medical assistant.
The graduation certificate you receive at the end of our program is your ticket to sit for the CCMA exam.
CapYear Academy partners with the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), the certifying body for the CCMA certification. Our program is mapped to the NHA guidelines and leverages NHA materials to ensure you build the skills you need to be prepared for the CCMA exam and be a medical assistant.
The graduation certificate you receive at the end of our program is your ticket to sit for the CCMA exam.
Sit for the CCMA certification exam
When you finish CapYear Academy’s training program, you’ll receive a certificate of completion and be eligible to sit for the CCMA exam. We'll even help you reserve your spot!
Become a Certified Medical Assistant
After you pass the CCMA exam, you’ll be [drum roll, please!] a certified clinical medical assistant.
The CCMA certification is recognized in all 50 states and gives you a competitive edge in the job market. Surveys show 80% - 90% of employers require or strongly prefer medical assistants to be certified.
The CCMA certification is recognized in all 50 states and gives you a competitive edge in the job market. Surveys show 80% - 90% of employers require or strongly prefer medical assistants to be certified.
Learn Valuable Clinical Skills from Medical Professionals
CapYear Academy’s CCMA training program is led by experienced, engaging medical professionals and supplemented by interactive videos and study guides.
Bonus: Real-world patient simulations allow you to practice and perform essential medical assistant tasks right from home.
Our comprehensive MA courses include:
Basic Science
Reinforce your knowledge of human anatomy and disease.
Medical law and ethics
Lessons on HIPAA, OSHA and other regulations to make sure you are up to speed on patient privacy and protection.
Medical terminology
Learn the language of healthcare to communicate effectively with patients and medical professionals.
Clinical Skill Building
Learn how to obtain vitals, prepare patients for examinations, and assist with procedures.
Patient communication
Learn principles of patient-centered communication, how to obtain patient histories, and effective patient education.
Pharmacology & Medicine
Develop your pharmacology and medication administration knowledge to improve your patient care skills.
Our Instructors
Experienced.
Dedicated.
Professional.
CapYear’s instructors are highly qualified professionals widely acknowledged in their fields. Their goal? Your success.
Questions? Answers.
The Program
Is the program really 100% online?
Yes — completely. There are no in-person classes, no campus requirements, and no set schedule. You log in when it works for you, move at your own pace, and complete everything through the CapYear Academy and NHA learning platforms. There are minimum progress requirements to stay in academic good standing, which you can read about in the Program Catalog.
How long does the program take?
The program is 201 clock hours and you have 12 months to complete it. Some students finish in as little as 9 weeks. You complete the program around your schedule. For more on minimum progress requirements, see the Program Catalog.
What are the minimum progress requirements?
To stay in academic good standing, you need to log in at least once every 60 days and meet minimum progress benchmarks at 90-day intervals. These requirements exist to keep you on track — not to create pressure. If you ever fall behind, the CapYear team will reach out to help. Full details are in the Program Catalog.
What will I actually learn?
The curriculum covers everything you need to work as a clinical medical assistant: anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, infection control, patient screenings and vital signs, phlebotomy, lab procedures, pharmacology, EKGs, billing and coding, and professional ethics. It is 201 hours of content delivered through a mix of readings, interactive videos, and simulations — all mapped to the NHA CCMA and AMCA CMAC certification exams.
What do I get when I finish?
When you complete the program, you receive a certificate of completion from CapYear Academy and become eligible to sit for either the NHA Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam or the AMCA Clinical Medical Assistant Certification (CMAC) exam. Both are nationally recognized credentials. The CapYear Academy team will help you register for your exam, and exam fees are included in your tuition. Nothing more to pay.
Can I pause if life gets busy?
Absolutely — and we expect it. Most of our students are pre-health students managing coursework, jobs, clinical hours, and everything else that comes with a full schedule. If you need to step away, you can request a Leave of Absence for up to 6 months. Pause when you need to, pick it back up over a break or when your schedule opens up. That flexibility is built into the program on purpose.
Do I have to complete an externship to sit for my certification exam?
No! You do not have to complete a clinical externship to sit for either the AMCA or CCMA medical assistant certification exams to become certified as a medical assistant.
In fact, many of our students complete the training program, sit for the exam as soon as possible, and then schedule their externship when it works well for their schedule.
In fact, many of our students complete the training program, sit for the exam as soon as possible, and then schedule their externship when it works well for their schedule.
Does CapYear Academy offer job placement support?
Yes! We’re committed to helping you succeed beyond completing your training program.
Our Career Support Services include:
Our Career Support Services include:
• Personalized resume and interview coaching
• Job search support and introductions to our clinical employer partners
• Access to our CapYear Job Board, a platform designed specifically for pre-health students seeking clinical opportunities.
How do I Complete the Program and Graduate?
To complete the program, students must:
- Complete 100% of the 201 hours of required program learning
- Achieve a minimum passing score on all module quizzes and assessments
- Score a minimum of 80% on the final program assessment
- Pay for the program in full
When you complete our training, you’ll be awarded a certificate of completion and be eligible to sit for the CCMA or AMCA certification exams.
Certification Exams
What certifications can I earn through CapYear Academy?
Upon completing the program, you are eligible to sit for two nationally recognized medical assistant certifications:
The NHA Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam, offered by the National Healthcareer Association, and the AMCA Clinical Medical Assistant Certification (CMAC) exam, offered by the American Medical Certification Association.
Either credential qualifies you to work as a certified medical assistant. The CapYear team will help you register for your exam and exam fees are included in your tuition.
What is the pass rate?
CapYear Academy graduates pass the CCMA exam at a 98% first-time rate. That is not an accident. The entire curriculum is mapped directly to the NHA CCMA test plan, and the program includes a dedicated final study guide and practice exams before you sit for the real thing.
What is included to help me prepare?
The final stretch of the program is built around exam prep. You will work through a 19-hour study guide that reviews every major topic, then complete timed practice exams with focused review based on your responses. You need to score 80% or higher on the practice exams before you are eligible to sit for the certification exam, so by the time you test, you are ready.
What if I don’t pass the certification exam?
Completing the CapYear Academy program satisfies the educational eligibility requirement to sit for the NHA CCMA or AMCA CMAC exam. If you do not pass on the first attempt, you can retake the NHA CCMA or AMCA CMAC exam after 30 days. The CapYear team is available to help you prepare for a retake.
Do I need to do anything else to work as a medical assistant after I pass?
In most states, passing the CCMA or CMAC exam is all you need to begin working as a certified medical assistant.
The Externship
What is the externship?
The externship is an optional 90-hour hands-on clinical experience that gives you real patient contact hours in a healthcare setting. It is available to students who have completed the CapYear Academy program and is included in the cost of tuition. There is no additional fee.
Do I have to do the externship to graduate?
No. The externship is optional and separate from the program itself. You receive your certificate of completion and become eligible to sit for your certification exam upon completing the 201-hour program. The externship is the next step for students who want to add real clinical hours to their resume before applying for medical assistant positions.
When can I start the externship?
The externship is available after you complete the program. We strongly encourage completing your CCMA or CMAC certification exam first. Because the externship requires a commitment of at least 16 hours per week, most students complete it over a school break or during a period when their schedule opens up.
How does placement work?
CapYear’s externship coordination team works with you to identify and secure a clinical site near you. You will not be navigating the process alone. While CapYear cannot guarantee placement at every site or in every location, placements have been successful across the country. Externship placement support is available for up to one year after you complete the program.
Is there anything I need to do before starting the externship?
Yes. In addition to successfully completing the CapYear Academy training program, you need to have a current CPR/BLS certification before beginning your externship. CPR/BLS certification must be obtained through the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross. CapYear does not arrange CPR/BLS training. Students complete CPR/BLS independently prior to starting their clinical hours.
Cost and Payment
How much does the program cost?
The total cost of the CapYear Academy Clinical Medical Assistant Training program is $1,995. That includes everything: all course materials, access to the NHA learning platform, and your certification exam fee. There is nothing more to pay.
What is included in the $1,995?
The program fee covers your full 201-hour curriculum, access to both the CapYear Academy and NHA learning platforms, all assessments and practice exams, and the fee to sit for either the NHA CCMA or AMCA CMAC certification exam. The optional externship is also included at no additional cost.
Are there payment plans available?
Yes. You can pay in full at enrollment or choose an interest-free installment plan. Payment plans begin with the $25 application fee, followed by your first installment 10 days later, with subsequent payments in 30-day intervals.
Are there any grants or scholarships available?
CapYear Academy periodically offers grants to support specific groups of students. Maryland residents are not eligible for grants per Maryland Higher Education Commission regulations. For the most current information on available grants, eligibility, and award amounts, contact us at academy@capyear.co.
What is the application fee?
There is a $25 non-refundable application fee. If you are not accepted into the program, the application fee is refunded in full.
What is the refund policy?
If you withdraw before the program begins, you are only responsible for the application fee. Once you begin the program, your refund is calculated based on how far into the program you are at the time of withdrawal, per Ohio Administrative Code:
There is a $25 non-refundable application fee. If you are not accepted into the program, the application fee is refunded in full.
• Withdraw before 15% completion: you owe 25% of tuition plus the application fee
• Withdraw between 15% and 25% completion: you owe 50% of tuition plus the application fee
• Withdraw between 25% and 40% completion: you owe 75% of tuition plus the application fee
• Withdraw after 40% completion: no refund is due
Refunds are issued within 30 days of the date CapYear Academy determines you have withdrawn. Maryland residents have a different refund schedule. See the State-Specific Information section below.
There is a $25 non-refundable application fee. If you are not accepted into the program, the application fee is refunded in full.
What if I have an issue with payment or the program?
All student issues or complaints should first be directed to the school personnel involved. If not resolved, a written complaint should be submitted to the School Director. If still unsatisfied, complaints may also be directed to:
Executive Director, State Board of Career Colleges and Schools, 30 East Broad Street, Suite 2481, Columbus, Ohio 43215. Phone: 614-466-2752. Toll-free: 877-275-4219.
Maryland residents should refer to the State-Specific Information section for the applicable issue and grievance contacts.
Enrollment and Admissions
Who can enroll at CapYear Academy?
CapYear Academy primarily serves current college students and recent college graduates who are preparing for medical school, physician assistant school, or other advanced healthcare careers. However, anyone who meets the admissions requirements is welcome to apply.
What are the admissions requirements?
To enroll, you must:
• Have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent. Current college enrollment or a completed college degree satisfies this requirement.
• Be at least 18 years old. A 17-year-old who will turn 18 before graduation may enroll with a parent or guardian’s written permission.
• Be able to read, write, and understand English.
• Have reliable access to a computer or tablet and a broadband internet connection.
How do I apply?
Complete the application on the CapYear Academy website. As part of the application, you will review your payment options and pay the $25 application fee. You will also review and sign your enrollment agreement. Once CapYear Academy countersigns your enrollment agreement, you are officially enrolled and will receive access to the learning platform.
When can I start?
CapYear Academy offers open enrollment. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and there are no set start dates. Once accepted, you can begin the program immediately.
What if my application is denied?
If you believe your application was denied in error, you may submit a written appeal within 7 calendar days of the admissions decision. The School Director will review your appeal and respond in writing. If you are not accepted, your $25 application fee is refunded in full.
Are there any criminal background or work authorization considerations?
Criminal convictions may affect your ability to obtain certification or employment as a medical assistant, depending on the nature of the conviction. U.S. work authorization status may also affect your employment opportunities even with a CCMA or CMAC certification. If you have questions about either, contact us at academy@capyear.co before enrolling.
Information For Maryland Residents
General information for Maryland residents
CapYear Academy is approved to operate in Maryland and enrolls Maryland residents. Maryland students are subject to the regulations of the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC), which govern enrollment, refunds, grievances, and program performance disclosures.
Tuition grants for Maryland residents
Maryland residents are not eligible for CapYear Academy tuition grants per Maryland Higher Education Commission regulations. All other pricing, payment plans, and program terms remain the same.
Refund policy for Maryland residents
Maryland residents are subject to the Maryland Higher Education Commission refund schedule. The Maryland refund schedule is based on the proportion of the program completed at the time of withdrawal:
• Less than 10% complete: 90% tuition refund
• 10% up to but not including 20% complete: 80% tuition refund
• 20% up to but not including 30% complete: 60% tuition refund
• 30% up to but not including 40% complete: 40% tuition refund
• 40% up to 50% complete: 20% tuition refund
• More than 50% complete: no refund
Maryland residents have the right to withdraw within 7 calendar days of signing their enrollment agreement and receive a full refund of all fees paid. Refunds are issued within 60 days of the date of withdrawal or termination. For full details, see the Program Catalog.
Grievance procedure for Maryland residents
Maryland residents who have a grievance should first raise the concern with their instructor. If not resolved, the grievance should be submitted in writing to the School Director. If still unsatisfied, a written complaint may be submitted to any of the following:
Maryland Real Estate Commission, 500 North Calvert Street, 3rd Floor, Baltimore, Maryland 21202-3651. Phone: 410-230-6230. Fax: 410-333-0023. Email: mrec@dllr.state.md.us.
Secretary of Higher Education at the Maryland Higher Education Commission, 6 N. Liberty Street, 10th Floor, Baltimore, Maryland 21201. Website: www.mhec.state.md.us.
Maryland Consumer Protection Division, 200 St. Paul Place, Baltimore, Maryland 21202. Phone: 410-576-6550. Email: consumer@oag.state.md.us.
Maryland Real Estate Commission, 500 North Calvert Street, 3rd Floor, Baltimore, Maryland 21202-3651. Phone: 410-230-6230. Fax: 410-333-0023. Email: mrec@dllr.state.md.us.
Secretary of Higher Education at the Maryland Higher Education Commission, 6 N. Liberty Street, 10th Floor, Baltimore, Maryland 21201. Website: www.mhec.state.md.us.
Maryland Consumer Protection Division, 200 St. Paul Place, Baltimore, Maryland 21202. Phone: 410-576-6550. Email: consumer@oag.state.md.us.
Information for California Residents
General information for California residents
CapYear Academy is a registered school with the California Bureau for Private Post Secondary Education.
California residents are subject to a required disclosure regarding the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF). The State of California established the STRF to relieve or mitigate economic loss suffered by a California resident enrolled in a qualifying institution who prepaid tuition and suffered an economic loss due to school closure, program discontinuation, or other qualifying events.
As of April 1, 2024, the STRF assessment rate is $0.00 per $1,000 of institutional charges, so there is no additional
fee collected at this time. However, the disclosure is required by California law. Questions about the STRF may be directed to the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, 1747 North Market Blvd., Suite 225, Sacramento, California 95834. Phone: (916) 574-8900 or (888) 370-7589.
California residents are subject to a required disclosure regarding the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF). The State of California established the STRF to relieve or mitigate economic loss suffered by a California resident enrolled in a qualifying institution who prepaid tuition and suffered an economic loss due to school closure, program discontinuation, or other qualifying events.
As of April 1, 2024, the STRF assessment rate is $0.00 per $1,000 of institutional charges, so there is no additional
fee collected at this time. However, the disclosure is required by California law. Questions about the STRF may be directed to the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, 1747 North Market Blvd., Suite 225, Sacramento, California 95834. Phone: (916) 574-8900 or (888) 370-7589.
Information for Washington State Residents
Important information for Washington State residents
CapYear Academy does not enroll residents of Washington State. The CapYear Academy program does not qualify graduates to work as medical assistants in Washington State, where specific in-state training and certification requirements apply. If you have questions, contact us at academy@capyear.co.