Application Process

Email us if you want to apply for Stellar certification!

To achieve Stellar certification, health-care facilities must pass a rigorous review process. The certification period is four years, with interim feedback calls in years 2 and 3. Re-certification is available in year 4.

The journey to Stellar certification

• Eligibility criteria: Before you begin, ensure that your health-care facility meets the eligibility criteria. Health-care organizations must pass the three eligibility criteria and be willing to self-report potential violations.
• Self-assessment: The self-assessment is completely for your benefit and does not need to be shared with the Stellar certification program. The self-assessment for Health-care organizations is available now.
• Fee payment and access to application system: The Stellar Certification Program provides an electronic application system. After payment is received, you will follow these steps:
• Check your email: Look for an email from us containing your login information.
• Access the application system: The link will be provided in the email.
• Log in: Use the provided login credentials to sign in.
• Complete your profile: Fill in any required personal and professional information.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to begin your application.
• Application submission process: The applicant has six months to collect supporting documents and complete their application submission. (Extensions are available, but late fees may apply.)
• After the application has been submitted, the applicant will receive confirmation within 5-10 business days that the evaluation will begin.
• Review: The Stellar Certification Program will complete its formal evaluation process. The evaluation will take one month.
• Survey: Health-care facilities that pass the evaluation process will enter the email survey phase.
• Adjudication committee review: The Stellar Certification Program will review all the collected evidence and the results of the survey to determine if the facility will be awarded Stellar certification. Three levels of certification are available.
• Stellar certification awarded: Congratulations! If your health-care facility has achieved Stellar certification, you will receive national recognition and validation of your commitment to workplace excellence and mention in CNA social media