Top 11 Office Support Certifications

Certifications are important for office support professionals in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise that employers look for. Certifications provide proof of knowledge, skills and abilities related to specific areas of office support. By having certifications, an office support professional can stand out among other job applicants and show potential employers that they have the qualifications necessary to excel in the position. In addition, certifications can also lead to higher salaries, more career options and increased job security.

This article reviews the top certifications for Office Support professionals, highlighting how they can contribute to career development and success.

What are Office Support Certifications?

Office Support Certification is a type of professional certification program designed to provide specialized training and education in the administrative support skills needed to work successfully in an office environment. This certification typically covers topics such as office procedures, customer service, data entry, records management, communication and interpersonal skills, software applications, and other related topics.

Having Office Support Certification can be beneficial for those who are looking to increase their chances of getting hired or promoted within a specific organization. It is also helpful for those who are interested in advancing their career in office administration or management roles. By completing this certification program, individuals can gain the knowledge and skill set they need to stay competitive in the job market and demonstrate their commitment to professional development.

In addition to providing valuable workplace skills, having Office Support Certification can also help people stand out among other applicants when applying for jobs. Employers often look for candidates that have gone above and beyond the minimum requirements for a position by taking courses or certifications that demonstrate a commitment to their career development. Additionally, having this certification can give individuals the confidence they need to perform effectively at work and be successful in their role.

Pro Tip: When considering office support certification, make sure to research the available courses and certifications in your area. Consider the cost of each certification, as well as the time commitment required to complete it. Additionally, look into potential employers who value office support certification and determine if having such a credential would give you an edge in the job market.

Related: What does an Office Support do?

Top 11 Office Support Certifications

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

1. Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS)

Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) is a certification program offered by Microsoft that validates an individual’s skills and knowledge in using Microsoft Office applications. The certification covers the most popular Office applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Access.

It typically takes around 2-3 months to get certified depending on the level of proficiency you have with the application. To become MOS certified, you will need to pass a series of exams which are available through Pearson VUE or Certiport testing centers. Each exam costs $150 USD and you will need to pass at least one exam for each Office application you wish to be certified in.

Once you have passed all of the required exams, you will receive your MOS certificate and official transcript from Microsoft. This will demonstrate your expertise in using Microsoft Office applications and can help open up new opportunities for career advancement.

2. Microsoft Office Specialist Expert (MOS Expert)

Microsoft Office Specialist Expert (MOS Expert) is a certification program offered by Microsoft to demonstrate proficiency in the use of the Microsoft Office suite of products. It is designed for individuals who want to demonstrate their advanced knowledge and skills in using Microsoft Office applications.

To become an MOS Expert, you must pass two exams: one for Word and one for Excel. Both exams are available through Certiport, a testing provider authorized by Microsoft. The Word exam covers topics such as document formatting, creating tables, mail merge, and collaboration tools. The Excel exam covers topics such as creating formulas, working with charts, analyzing data, and automating tasks.

The cost of becoming an MOS Expert varies depending on the country you live in and the testing provider you use. Generally speaking, it will cost around $150-$200 per exam plus any applicable taxes or fees.

The time it takes to become an MOS Expert depends on your experience level with the Microsoft Office suite of products and how much time you spend studying for the exams. Most people can complete both exams within a few weeks if they dedicate enough time to studying and practice tests.

3. Microsoft Certified Application Specialist (MCAS)

Microsoft Certified Application Specialist (MCAS) is a certification program offered by Microsoft that validates the skills and knowledge of individuals working with Microsoft Office applications. The MCAS certification is designed to demonstrate proficiency in using the latest versions of Microsoft Office applications, such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Access.

The MCAS certification process consists of two exams: one for each application. Each exam typically takes about an hour to complete and covers topics such as creating documents, formatting text and tables, creating formulas and charts, and managing data. To become certified, applicants must pass both exams with a score of 70% or higher.

To get started on the MCAS certification path, applicants must first purchase an exam voucher from Microsoft. Exam vouchers are available for purchase through various vendors and can range in price from $50-$100 per exam. Once an applicant has purchased their exam voucher they can then register for their chosen exams online via Pearson VUE or Prometric Testing Centers.

Once the applicant has completed both exams they will receive their official MCAS certificate within 4-6 weeks after passing all required tests. The cost of the entire MCAS certification process varies depending on how many exams you take but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD total.

4. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ Certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals. It is the most popular entry-level certification for those seeking to enter the IT field or advance their career. It covers a broad range of topics, including hardware, software, networking, security, troubleshooting and customer service.

To obtain CompTIA A+ Certification, individuals must pass two exams: 220-901 and 220-902. The exams cover a range of topics related to computer technology and are designed to test an individual’s ability to install, configure, diagnose, repair and maintain various types of hardware and software.

The length of time it takes to get CompTIA A+ Certification depends on an individual’s level of experience with computers and how much time they can dedicate to studying for the exams. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from four weeks to six months or more to prepare for the tests.

In order to get CompTIA A+ Certification, individuals must first register for the exams through Pearson VUE (www.vue.com). They then need to study for the exams using approved courseware materials or self-study guides available from CompTIA (www.comptia.org). Once they have completed their studies, they can schedule their exam at a Pearson VUE testing center near them.

The cost of CompTIA A+ Certification varies depending on where you take your exam and what type of training materials you use for preparation. Generally speaking, the cost is around $200 per exam plus any applicable taxes or fees associated with taking the exam at a Pearson VUE testing center.

5. CompTIA Network+ Certification

CompTIA Network+ Certification is a vendor-neutral certification that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in networking technologies. It is designed to provide a foundation of networking knowledge for IT professionals and to help them further their career. The certification covers topics such as network technologies, installation and configuration, media and topologies, security, and network troubleshooting.

The exam for CompTIA Network+ Certification consists of 90 multiple-choice questions that must be completed in 90 minutes or less. The exam costs $329 USD and can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center worldwide.

To get the CompTIA Network+ Certification, you must pass the exam with a score of 720 or higher on a scale of 100-900 points. There are no prerequisites for taking the exam, but it is recommended that individuals have at least nine months of experience in networking technologies before attempting it. Additionally, having other certifications such as CompTIA A+, Security+, Linux+, Cloud+, or Project+ may help prepare you for the exam.

The certification is valid for three years from the date of passing the exam; after this period has elapsed, you will need to retake the exam to maintain your certification status.

6. IC3 Digital Literacy Certification

The IC3 Digital Literacy Certification is an online certification program designed to help individuals develop their digital literacy skills. It is a comprehensive, industry-recognized certification that covers the three main areas of digital literacy: Computing Fundamentals, Key Applications, and Living Online. This certification program is offered by Certiport, a Pearson VUE business.

The IC3 Digital Literacy Certification consists of three exams: Computing Fundamentals (CF), Key Applications (KAs), and Living Online (LO). Each exam takes approximately 1 hour to complete. The entire certification process typically takes around 4 hours to complete.

To get the IC3 Digital Literacy Certification, you must first register for the exams at the Certiport website. Once you have registered, you will be able to access the exam materials and take the exams at any Certiport testing center or online through Pearson VUE's OnVUE platform.

The cost of the IC3 Digital Literacy Certification varies depending on your location. Generally speaking, it costs between $100-$200 USD per exam or $300-$600 USD for all three exams combined.

7. Google Apps for Work Certifications

Google Apps for Work Certifications are designed to help organizations and individuals demonstrate their proficiency in using Google’s suite of cloud-based productivity tools. This certification is available to both individual users and organizations, and it provides recognition for those who have achieved a certain level of expertise with the Google Apps suite.

The Google Apps for Work Certification program consists of two levels: Associate and Professional. The Associate level is designed for people who are just getting started with the Google Apps suite, while the Professional level is intended for those who have more advanced knowledge and experience with the tools.

It typically takes about 10 hours to complete the Associate level certification, while the Professional level can take up to 20 hours depending on your experience. To get certified, you must pass an online exam that covers topics such as Gmail, Calendar, Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides, Hangouts Meet & Chat and more.

The cost of each certification varies depending on your location; however, it generally ranges from $50-$100 USD per exam.

8. Adobe Certified Associate (ACA)

Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) is an industry-recognized certification from Adobe that demonstrates a professional level of proficiency in using Adobe products. It is designed to help individuals demonstrate their skills and knowledge in Adobe’s Creative Cloud applications, including Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Animate, Dreamweaver and Premiere Pro.

The ACA exam typically takes about 90 minutes to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. The cost of the exam varies depending on the country you are taking it in but usually ranges from $95-$180 USD.

To get the ACA certification, you must first register for an exam with Pearson VUE or Certiport. Once registered, you can take the online practice test to familiarize yourself with the types of questions asked on the actual exam. After passing the practice test, you can then book your exam date with Pearson VUE or Certiport and take your official ACA certification test. After passing your test, you will receive a digital certificate and badge that you can use to showcase your achievement on social media platforms such as LinkedIn or Twitter.

9. Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)

Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) is an industry-recognized certification for Apple support professionals. It is designed to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the Mac OS X operating system and its related applications. ACSP certification is achieved by passing a series of exams administered by Apple.

The ACSP certification program consists of two parts: the Mac OS X Support Essentials course, and the Apple Certified Technical Coordinator (ACTC) exam. The Mac OS X Support Essentials course covers topics such as troubleshooting, installation, configuration, maintenance, and networking in the Mac environment. The ACTC exam tests knowledge in areas such as hardware setup and repair, network administration, directory services, system security, scripting and automation, server administration, and more.

It typically takes about three months to complete the ACSP program. This includes taking the Mac OS X Support Essentials course (which can be taken online or in person at an Apple Authorized Training Center), studying for the ACTC exam, and then taking the exam itself.

To get started with ACSP certification you must first purchase a voucher from Apple that will allow you to take both the Mac OS X Support Essentials course and the ACTC exam. The cost of this voucher varies depending on where you purchase it from but generally costs around $400 USD. Once you have purchased your voucher you can register for either an online or in-person class to take the Mac OS X Support Essentials course. After completing this course you will be ready to take your ACTC exam at an authorized testing center near you.

In total it will cost around $400 USD to become an ACSP certified professional which includes purchasing a voucher from Apple that allows access to both courses as well as any associated fees related to taking your ACTC exam at a testing center near you.

10. QuickBooks ProAdvisor Certification

QuickBooks ProAdvisor Certification is an online certification program offered by Intuit that provides QuickBooks users with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a certified ProAdvisor. The program teaches users how to use QuickBooks software, manage accounts, create reports, and provide technical support for customers.

To become certified as a QuickBooks ProAdvisor, you must complete the online training course. This course consists of 10 modules that cover topics such as setting up QuickBooks, managing accounts, creating reports, and providing customer service. The entire course takes approximately 8 hours to complete.

Once you have completed the training course, you will be required to take an exam in order to receive your certification. The exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions and requires a score of 80% or higher in order to pass. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official QuickBooks ProAdvisor Certification.

The cost of the QuickBooks ProAdvisor Certification Program is $299 USD. This fee includes access to all 10 modules of the online training course as well as the certification exam.

11. Legal Office Support Professional Certificate

The Legal Office Support Professional Certificate is a program designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in a legal office environment. The program consists of four courses, which can be completed in as little as six months.

To get the certificate, you must complete all four courses: Introduction to Law and Legal Processes, Legal Office Administration, Business Communications for the Legal Office, and Legal Technology. Each course is offered online or in-person at an accredited college or university.

The cost of the certificate varies depending on where you take the courses. Generally speaking, online courses are more affordable than in-person classes. Additionally, some colleges offer discounts for military personnel or other groups.

In addition to completing the four courses, you must also pass a final exam in order to receive your certificate. Upon successful completion of the program and passing of the final exam, you will receive your certificate from your school's registrar's office.

Do You Really Need a Office Support Certificate?

An office support certificate is a great way to demonstrate your proficiency in the skills needed to excel in an administrative role. It provides employers with tangible evidence that you possess the necessary knowledge and abilities to perform effectively in an office environment. This type of certification can be beneficial for those looking to enter or advance their career in this field.

When considering whether or not to pursue an office support certificate, it is important to consider the benefits that it can bring. Having a certificate can make you stand out from other applicants during a job search, as employers will know that you have taken the initiative to learn the skills needed for success. Additionally, having a certificate demonstrates your commitment and dedication to your craft, which can give employers confidence that you are willing and able to do the job well.

In addition, having an office support certificate may also open up new opportunities for advancement within your current company or when applying for positions at other organizations. An employer may recognize your credentials and be more likely to consider you for higher-level positions or promotions. With this type of recognition, you may find yourself on a quicker path towards career growth than if you did not have such credentials.

Ultimately, whether or not you should pursue an office support certificate depends on your individual goals and needs. If you feel like having this certification would benefit your career prospects and help set yourself apart from others in the field, then it may be worth considering getting one. However, if you already have sufficient experience and feel confident about your ability to perform well in an administrative role without formal training, then there may be no need for additional certifications at this time.

Related: Office Support Resume Examples

FAQs About Office Support Certifications

1. What types of office support certifications are available?

Answer: Office support certifications vary widely, depending on the type of job you’re looking for. Popular certifications include Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS), CompTIA A+, and Certified Administrative Professional (CAP).

2. What are the benefits of getting an office support certification?

Answer: Obtaining an office support certification can help demonstrate your skills and knowledge in a particular area to potential employers, helping you stand out from other job applicants. It can also give you access to higher-paying positions and provide opportunities for career advancement.

3. How long does it take to complete an office support certification?

Answer: The length of time required to complete an office support certification depends on the specific type and level of certification you are pursuing. Generally speaking, most certifications require between six months and one year of study before taking the final exam.

4. Is there a cost associated with obtaining an office support certification?

Answer: Yes, there is usually a fee associated with obtaining an office support certification, which will depend on the type of certification as well as any study materials or other resources that may be necessary for successful completion of the program.

5. Are there any prerequisites for obtaining an office support certification?

Answer: Depending on the type of certification you are pursuing, there may be prerequisites such as having a certain amount of work experience or passing a basic skill test prior to enrolling in the program. It is important to research each individual program’s requirements before starting your studies in order to ensure that you meet all necessary criteria and can successfully complete the program.