Credentials

Earning credentials

When you complete all of the required steps of a related learning activity, you earn a credential that recognizes your expertise. Credentials that you earn become a permanent part of your Google Skills account. Referencing your accomplishments can be a positive mark of distinction, and you can share them on social media. For example, you could add a link to your LinkedIn profile that points to your badge.

Note: You can only share credentials if you have an active account with Google Skills.

 

Skill badge

A skill badge is a digital badge that Google Cloud issues to recognize your cloud proficiency with Google Cloud products and services. The badge confirms your ability to apply that knowledge in an interactive hands-on environment.

To earn a badge, complete the following steps:
1. Complete an applicable learning activity that grants a skill badge; usually includes a hands-on lab
2. Take a final assessment challenge lab to test your skills

Certificate

A certificate is a credential that helps you prepare for a new career in 3-6 months, complete hands-on projects to learn practical skills, and demonstrate your proficiency to employers.

To earn a certificate, complete the following steps:
1. Complete an applicable learning activity that grants a certificate credential
2. When you complete eligible content, go to the badges page to accept your Credly badges.

Certification

A certification is an industry-recognized credential that helps validate your skills and showcase a deep-expertise in a particular area that helps advance your career.

There 2 types of certifications:

1. Foundational certifications: Validates broad knowledge of cloud concepts and the products, services, tools, features, benefits, and use cases of Google Cloud.
2. Technical certifications: Validates key technical job functions and advanced skills in design, implementation and management of Google Cloud products. This includes specialized certifications.

To earn a certification, complete the following steps:
1.Find the right certification for you
2. Review key topics on the exam guide
3. Prepare for your certification

Credly badge

To help you showcase your Google Cloud skills, we've partnered with Credly as our new digital badge provider. Select content on Google Skills is now eligible for Credly badges.  

Once you complete content that has an eligible Credly badge, you will be asked if you want to claim it on Credly, and will either create an account, or login to an existing one.

Below are some of the things that you can do when you showcase your Google Cloud badges on Credly:

• Showcase your skills: Easily highlight your accomplishments on LinkedIn, social media, and other professional platforms.
• Verify your achievement: The digital format offers secure verification, adding credibility to your credential.
• Explore new opportunities: Gain access to job openings and career insights that are directly relevant to your skills.
• Unlock exclusive benefits: Discover special offers and learning pathways designed for badge earners like you.

For more information, check out the Credly FAQs.