Wondering what the process is like to become a certified associate with SAP? Let me tell you about my journey and what the process has been like for me!
Preparing for the test may look very different for different people. When I began to prepare for the test, I already had quite a bit of knowledge. Even with that knowledge, I studied… hard. This is because the test covers a broad range of information, and to be successful, I needed to learn even more. SAP SuccessFactors Learning is highly configurable with a ton of functionality, and you need to be familiar with most of it to pass. I relied on the SAP website’s study material and completed all exercises available. There are restrictions on the number of exam attempts available within a period. However, the number of exam attempts available to you will also depend on the number of attempts purchased. The packages that allow multiple attempts, of course, will cost more. In either case, properly preparing is everything! You really only want to do this once, if possible. Once you are prepared to test, log in to the exam portal and schedule your test. I think I did this and was able to test within a week. You should, of course, scout that out for yourself if you have any deadlines. I’m sure scheduling demand fluctuates.
Once your test is scheduled, there is some prep work to do. SAP will send you a detailed email with instructions before your scheduled test day. Read it… twice! There are steps you will need to take before test day. Basically, you need a solid internet connection, the test security software should be downloaded on your computer, a webcam, and a quiet room with a completely clear table. No phones, no smartwatches, just you, a computer, and the proctor. And believe me, they will check, so be prepared to pan your webcam around the room to confirm you have met all of the requirements in your space.
The big day has arrived! It’s time to take your test; what now? The exam for certification is a proctored and timed test with a combination of multiple-choice & multiple-answer questions. A proctor will be on with you for the duration of your exam. They are actually, in fact, watching. I took off my bracelet, and they immediately asked me about it. It’s structured. This structure, of course, helps to maintain the integrity of the testing and the value of the certification for us all! The unofficial results are available immediately, and official results come in an email very quickly (it was within a few hours for me). SAP also issues a badge on Credly to mark the occasion. You can go to Credly post-exam to get your badges to share with the world! :)
But….. it doesn’t end here; there are also requirements to keep your certification valid. The requirements fluctuated some during pandemic times but more or less, you should expect to complete training at least twice per year. When there is a new requirement, SAP will email you to give you a heads-up. There is “Stay Current” information published related to system updates. This includes new functionality, changing functionality, and features that will sunset. Once you have reviewed the information, be sure to complete the “Stay Current” assessment. You must pass the assessment to maintain your certification. A new badge is issued to Credly as you complete stay current requirements as well.
Wondering how to share your qualifications? Credly will allow you to share individual badges or your entire profile. Here is a link to my profile as an example.