Top 11 Freelance Certifications

Certifications are important for freelancers in the job market because they provide a form of validation that an individual has the necessary skills and knowledge to do a particular job. Certifications demonstrate that a freelancer is committed to learning, which can make them more attractive to potential clients. They also prove that they have taken the time to learn and understand specific skills, which can give employers confidence in their abilities. Certifications also offer freelancers the opportunity to stand out from the competition and increase their marketability, as well as giving them access to higher paying jobs.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the best certifications for freelancers and explain how they can help advance their career.

What are Freelance Certifications?

Freelance certification is a way of recognizing the skills and experience of freelance professionals who are self-employed or work independently. It is designed to demonstrate that an individual has the necessary qualifications, knowledge and expertise to be successful in their chosen field. By obtaining a freelance certification, freelancers can prove their value to potential clients and employers, while also increasing their chances of being hired for projects. Certification can help freelancers stand out from the competition by demonstrating that they have the necessary qualifications, experience, and knowledge to successfully complete a job. It also helps freelancers build credibility within their industry as it shows that they have taken the time to gain formal recognition for their skills and expertise. Additionally, having a certification can open up new opportunities for freelancers, such as access to exclusive jobs or higher pay rates.

Pro Tip: Invest in a freelance certification program to demonstrate your commitment to the profession and showcase your knowledge and skills. This will help you stand out from the competition and increase your chances of getting more jobs.

Related: What does a Freelance do?

Top 11 Freelance Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Freelances today.

1. Certified Freelance Project Manager (CFPM)

Certified Freelance Project Manager (CFPM) is a professional certification for freelance project managers. It is designed to give freelancers the skills and knowledge to successfully manage projects from start to finish. This certification covers topics such as project management basics, risk management, budgeting, scheduling, communication and more.

The CFPM certification typically takes around 6-12 months to complete. To get certified, you must first pass an exam that covers the fundamentals of project management. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and can be taken online or in person at a testing center. After passing the exam, you will need to complete a portfolio of your work that demonstrates your ability to manage projects.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on the provider but generally ranges from $500 – $2,000 USD. The cost includes the exam fee as well as any additional course materials or training needed to prepare for the exam.

Once you have earned your CFPM certification, you will be able to demonstrate your expertise in managing projects and increase your chances of getting hired by potential clients.

2. Certified Freelance Writer (CFW)

Certified Freelance Writer (CFW) is a certification program designed to recognize and validate the skills of freelance writers. It is offered by the International Association of Professional Writers and Editors (IAPWE). The certification is designed to demonstrate a writer’s knowledge and experience in the craft of writing, as well as their ability to produce quality content for clients.

The CFW program consists of an online assessment and a practical exam. The online assessment consists of multiple-choice questions that test a writer’s knowledge of grammar, punctuation, style, structure, research methods, and other topics related to professional writing. The practical exam requires writers to submit samples of their work for review by IAPWE editors.

It typically takes 4-6 weeks to complete the CFW program. During this time, writers will need to complete the online assessment and submit their work samples for review. Once all requirements are met, writers will receive their certification from IAPWE.

The cost of the CFW program varies depending on the level of membership chosen by the writer. For non-members, it costs $99 USD; for members, it costs $69 USD; and for lifetime members, it costs $49 USD.

3. Certified Professional in Freelance Accounting (CPFA)

Certified Professional in Freelance Accounting (CPFA) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the expertise and proficiency of freelance accountants. CPFA provides an opportunity for freelance accountants to demonstrate their knowledge and skills through an industry-recognized credential.

The CPFA program consists of two parts: the Core Examination and the Specialty Examination. The Core Examination tests the fundamental knowledge, skills, and abilities required for successful freelance accounting practice. It is composed of four sections: Financial Reporting, Auditing & Assurance Services, Taxation & Regulatory Compliance, and Business Analysis & Planning. The Specialty Examination tests specialized knowledge related to specific areas of freelance accounting such as bookkeeping, payroll processing, financial statement preparation, etc.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CPFA program. During this time, candidates must pass both examinations with a minimum score of 70%. They must also meet all other requirements set by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).

To get started on the CPFA program, applicants must first register with AICPA and pay a registration fee. Once registered, they will receive access to study materials and resources that will help them prepare for the exams. Candidates may also choose to take additional courses or workshops offered by AICPA or other organizations in order to gain additional knowledge and skills needed for success on the exams.

The cost of taking both examinations is approximately $1,000 USD plus any additional fees associated with courses or workshops taken in preparation for the exams.

4. Certified Professional Freelance Editor (CPFE)

Certified Professional Freelance Editor (CPFE) is a certification program designed to recognize and validate the skills and knowledge of professional freelance editors. This certification is offered by the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA), an organization that provides resources, support, and advocacy for freelance editors.

To become a CPFE, applicants must have at least five years of professional editing experience and pass a written exam. The exam covers topics such as grammar, punctuation, style guides, copyediting techniques, proofreading strategies, and more. It takes approximately two to three hours to complete the exam.

Applicants must also submit two writing samples from their portfolio for review by EFA-certified editors. The samples are evaluated for accuracy, clarity, readability, structure, flow, consistency in style and usage, and other factors.

The cost of the CPFE certification is $225 USD ($275 USD for non-members). This includes the cost of the exam fee as well as any additional fees associated with submitting writing samples for review.

Once applicants have successfully completed all requirements for certification they will receive a CPFE certificate from EFA that is valid for three years.

5. Certified Professional Virtual Assistant (CPVA)

Certified Professional Virtual Assistant (CPVA) is an accreditation program designed to recognize the skills and abilities of virtual assistants. It is offered by the International Virtual Assistants Association (IVAA). The CPVA certification is a way for virtual assistants to demonstrate their expertise and commitment to excellence in their profession.

The CPVA certification requires applicants to complete a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as communication, customer service, technology, marketing, and business operations. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and case studies. Once the exam has been completed successfully, applicants will receive their CPVA certificate.

The cost of the CPVA certification varies depending on which package you choose. Generally speaking, it will cost between $250-$500 USD to become certified.

It usually takes about two weeks to get your results after taking the exam. After passing the exam, you will receive your official certificate within two weeks via mail or email.

To get started with becoming a Certified Professional Virtual Assistant (CPVA), you must first register with IVAA and pay the registration fee. You can then access all of the resources available on IVAA’s website including study guides and practice exams. Once you have studied for the exam and are ready to take it, you can schedule an appointment with IVAA’s testing center or take it online at home.

6. Certified Freelance Web Developer (CFWD)

Certified Freelance Web Developer (CFWD) is a certification program for freelance web developers. It is designed to help freelancers demonstrate their knowledge and skills in web development, as well as provide them with recognition from the industry.

The CFWD certification requires applicants to pass an online exam that covers topics such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, MySQL, and WordPress. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

In order to become certified, applicants must have at least two years of professional experience in web development and must submit proof of their experience along with their application. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of work samples that demonstrate their ability to create websites according to industry standards.

The cost of the CFWD certification is $199 USD. This fee includes access to the online exam, a certificate upon successful completion of the exam, and recognition from the industry as a certified freelance web developer.

7. Certified Freelance Graphic Designer (CFGD)

Certified Freelance Graphic Designer (CFGD) is an online certification program created by the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA). It provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of freelance graphic design. The certification is designed to help freelancers develop their skills and knowledge in order to become more successful in their chosen field.

The CFGD program consists of five courses, which cover topics such as: branding, typography, layout and production, digital media, and web design. Each course takes approximately 10-15 hours to complete and can be done at your own pace. Upon completion of all five courses, you will receive a certificate from AIGA.

To get certified as a CFGD, you must have at least two years of professional experience in the field or have completed an accredited degree program in graphic design. You must also submit a portfolio that demonstrates your work for review by AIGA's panel of experts. Once accepted into the program, you will need to pay a fee of $500 USD for the entire course package.

The cost covers access to all five courses and materials needed for each one, as well as access to ongoing support from AIGA's team of professionals throughout the duration of your certification process. Additionally, upon completion you will receive a digital badge that can be displayed on your website or other online profiles to demonstrate your expertise in freelance graphic design.

8. Certified Social Media Strategist (CSMS)

A Certified Social Media Strategist (CSMS) is a professional designation that recognizes an individual’s expertise in social media strategy and implementation. The certification is offered by the Social Media Institute, which is an international organization dedicated to providing education and training in social media.

To become a CSMS, individuals must complete a series of courses and exams that cover topics such as digital marketing, content creation, analytics, and customer engagement. The program also requires participants to submit a portfolio of their work in order to demonstrate their understanding of the material.

The CSMS program takes approximately six months to complete, depending on the individual’s availability and commitment level.

In order to get certified as a CSMS, individuals must first register with the Social Media Institute. After registration, individuals will have access to course materials and exams. Once all coursework has been completed and exams passed, individuals must submit their portfolio for review by the institute’s faculty members. Upon successful review of the portfolio, the individual will receive their certification from the institute.

The cost of becoming a CSMS depends on several factors including location and payment plan chosen. Generally speaking, it costs around $2,000 USD for tuition fees plus any applicable taxes or fees associated with registration or payment plans.

9. Certified SEO Specialist (CSSS)

A Certified SEO Specialist (CSSS) is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of search engine optimization (SEO). It is awarded by the Search Engine Academy, an international organization dedicated to training and certifying professionals in the field of SEO.

The CSSS certification program consists of four courses: Introduction to SEO, Advanced SEO, Technical SEO and Link Building. Each course is approximately four hours long and includes lectures, demonstrations, quizzes and exams. Upon completion of all four courses, students must pass a final exam to receive their certification.

In order to become certified as a CSSS, you must first complete the four courses offered by the Search Engine Academy. The cost for each course varies depending on the location where it is taken, but typically ranges from $300-$500 per course. Once you have completed all four courses and passed the final exam with a score of 80% or higher, you will be eligible for certification as a CSSS.

The cost for obtaining your CSSS certification will depend on how many courses you take and how much you pay for each one. Generally speaking, it should cost between $1,200-$2,000 to become certified as a CSSS.

10. Certified Digital Marketing Strategist (CDMS)

A Certified Digital Marketing Strategist (CDMS) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in digital marketing strategy. The certification is awarded by the Digital Marketing Institute, an international organization that specializes in providing digital marketing training and certifications.

The CDMS certification requires applicants to have at least two years of experience working in digital marketing and pass a comprehensive exam. The exam covers topics such as SEO, SEM, social media, content marketing, analytics, and more.

The cost of the CDMS certification varies depending on the country you are located in but typically ranges from $400-$600 USD. It usually takes around four weeks to complete the coursework and prepare for the exam.

To become certified, applicants must first register with the Digital Marketing Institute and pay the required fee. They must then complete an online course with modules covering all aspects of digital marketing strategy and take a final assessment test. Once they have passed this test, they will be eligible for the CDMS certification.

11. Certified Content Marketer (CCM).

Certified Content Marketer (CCM) is an industry-recognized certification that recognizes professionals who have demonstrated a mastery of content marketing best practices. It is designed to certify individuals who have the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to develop and execute successful content marketing campaigns.

The CCM certification program consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course covers topics such as content strategy, content creation, analytics, and optimization. The exam tests your knowledge on these topics and requires you to demonstrate your understanding of the principles of effective content marketing.

The CCM certification is offered by the Content Marketing Institute (CMI). To get certified, you must complete the online course and pass the exam with a score of 80% or higher. You will also need to submit proof of at least two years of professional experience in content marketing or related fields.

The cost for the CCM certification program varies depending on which package you choose. The basic package includes access to the online course and exam for $499 USD. Additional packages are available that include additional resources such as study guides, practice exams, and more for an additional fee.

Overall, obtaining a Certified Content Marketer (CCM) certification can take anywhere from one month to several months depending on how quickly you are able to complete the online course and pass the exam.

Do You Really Need a Freelance Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your personal goals and objectives. If you are looking to become a professional freelancer or work in the freelance industry, then having a certification can be beneficial. A freelance certificate can demonstrate that you have acquired the necessary skills and knowledge to perform certain tasks related to freelancing, such as web design, writing, editing, marketing, or graphic design. It can also show potential employers that you take your career seriously and are committed to growing as a professional.

However, it is important to note that having a freelance certificate does not guarantee success or guarantee employment. Although having a certificate may enhance your resume and open up more opportunities for you, it is ultimately up to you to make sure that your services meet the needs of potential clients. You must also be able to effectively market yourself and build relationships with potential clients if you want to succeed as a freelancer.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a freelance certificate depends on your individual goals and objectives. If you plan on pursuing freelancing as a full-time career, then having a certification may be beneficial for you in the long run. However, there are many other factors that will determine your success as a freelancer such as hard work, dedication and networking skills. Ultimately it is up to you decide whether or not obtaining a freelance certificate is worth the investment of time and money for your particular situation.

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FAQs About Freelance Certifications

Q1. What is a Freelance Certification?

A1. A Freelance Certification is a credential that showcases an individual’s skills, expertise and experience in a particular field of freelance work. It is a way for freelancers to demonstrate their qualifications and prove their knowledge of the industry.

Q2. What are the Benefits of Getting Certified as a Freelancer?

A2. Certifications provide credibility, help you stand out from the competition, improve your job prospects, increase your rate potential, help you stay up to date on industry trends and best practices, and give you access to exclusive resources and discounts.

Q3. How Do I Get Certified as a Freelancer?

A3. You can get certified as a freelancer by taking courses or passing exams that cover specific areas of expertise such as web development, graphic design or copywriting. You can also take certifications through organizations such as the National Association of Professional Freelancers (NAPF).

Q4. Is There an Exam Required for Freelance Certification?

A4. Most certifications require an exam or assessment in order to be obtained; however, some may require more than one depending on the type of certification being sought after. Each exam will vary in content and difficulty level based on the organization offering it.

Q5 . How Much Does It Cost To Become Certified As A Freelancer?

A5 . The cost of becoming certified as a freelancer depends on the type of certification you are seeking and the organization providing it; however, most certifications range from $100-$500 USD depending on the complexity and length of the program or exam being taken.