Top 10 Typist Certifications

Certifications for a typist are important for many reasons. First and foremost, certifications demonstrate that the typist is knowledgeable and competent in their field. They show potential employers that the typist has taken the time to invest in their skills and gain expert knowledge in their field. Certification also provides recognition and credibility to a typist’s resume, helping them stand out from other applicants who may not have taken the same initiative. Lastly, certifications can lead to greater job opportunities as they allow employers to trust that the typist has the necessary skillset and knowledge to perform well in the role.

The purpose of this article is to review the most beneficial certifications for typists and explain how they can help advance their careers.

What are Typist Certifications?

Typist certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates a typist's mastery of the skills and knowledge needed to be successful in the field. This certification can be obtained through various organizations, such as the National Court Reporters Association. Typist certification indicates that an individual has met certain standards of proficiency in typing, including accuracy, speed, and formatting. It also shows that they understand the basics of grammar, punctuation, and other writing conventions.

Having a typist certification can be beneficial for those looking to work as a typist in a business or office setting. Employers may prefer candidates with certifications since it proves they are highly skilled in the profession. Additionally, having this type of recognition could lead to higher pay or more opportunities for advancement within the company. It also allows typists to gain confidence in their abilities and demonstrate their commitment to their profession.

Pro Tip: If you are considering becoming a certified typist, make sure to research the requirements of the certifying organization and practice typing regularly to ensure that your skills remain sharp. Additionally, keep up-to-date with the latest technology and software related to typing to stay ahead of the competition.

Related: What does a Typist do?

Top 10 Typist Certifications

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

1. Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Certification

Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Certification is a globally-recognized credential that validates an individual’s skills in Microsoft Office applications. It is awarded by Certiport, a Pearson VUE business, and is available for the following Microsoft Office applications: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access and SharePoint.

The certification process involves passing one or more exams to demonstrate proficiency in each of the applications. Depending on the application(s) chosen for certification, it can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours to complete the exam(s). The cost of each exam varies depending on location and currency but typically ranges from $50-$100 USD per exam.

To get certified, individuals must first register with Certiport and then schedule their exam(s). Once registered and scheduled, they will be able to access practice tests and other resources provided by Certiport to help them prepare for their exams. After successfully completing all required exams and meeting any prerequisites, individuals will receive their MOS certificate via mail or email.

2. IC3 Digital Literacy Certification

The IC3 Digital Literacy Certification is an internationally recognized certification that validates a person’s ability to use computers and the Internet. The certification is offered by Certiport, a provider of performance-based IT certification exams.

The IC3 Digital Literacy Certification consists of three separate tests: Computing Fundamentals, Key Applications, and Living Online. Each test is designed to assess the user’s knowledge in a specific area of digital literacy. The Computing Fundamentals exam covers topics such as computer hardware, operating systems, file management, and basic troubleshooting techniques. The Key Applications exam focuses on topics such as word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentation software. Finally, the Living Online exam covers topics such as emailing, web browsing, social networking, and online safety.

It typically takes between two and four hours to complete all three tests depending on the individual's familiarity with the material. The cost for the IC3 Digital Literacy Certification varies depending on location but generally ranges from $99-$150 USD. To get certified you must first register with Certiport and then take their online assessment which will determine if you are eligible to take the exams or not. Once you have passed all three exams you will receive your IC3 Digital Literacy Certification certificate in the mail within 4-6 weeks after completion of your exams.

3. CompTIA Strata IT Fundamentals Certification

CompTIA Strata IT Fundamentals is an entry-level certification designed to validate the knowledge and skills necessary to understand basic computer hardware, software, networking, and security concepts. It is the first step in a successful career in IT.

The CompTIA Strata IT Fundamentals exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. To pass the exam, you must score at least 750 out of 900 points. The exam covers topics such as PC components, mobile devices, operating systems, networking fundamentals, security fundamentals, and troubleshooting principles.

To get the CompTIA Strata IT Fundamentals certification you must first register for the exam with CompTIA's testing partner Pearson VUE. Once registered you can then schedule your exam at a time that is convenient for you. You can take the exam either online or in person at a Pearson VUE test center.

The cost of taking the CompTIA Strata IT Fundamentals Exam varies depending on which country or region you are located in but typically costs around $119 USD.

4. International Typing and Keyboard Association (ITKA) Certification

The International Typing and Keyboard Association (ITKA) is a professional organization that offers certification programs for individuals who wish to demonstrate their proficiency in touch typing and keyboarding. The ITKA Certification Program is designed to help individuals develop the skills necessary to be successful in the workplace, as well as increase their employability.

The ITKA Certification Program consists of two levels: Level 1 and Level 2. Level 1 is designed for those who are just beginning to learn how to type, while Level 2 is intended for those who want to demonstrate their advanced typing and keyboarding abilities. To obtain an ITKA Certification, individuals must successfully pass an online assessment that tests their speed, accuracy, and technique.

It typically takes between one and two hours to complete the online assessment for either level of certification. After completing the assessment, individuals will receive a score report which will indicate whether or not they have achieved a passing grade. If they have passed the assessment, they will then be eligible to receive their official ITKA Certificate of Achievement.

The cost of obtaining an ITKA Certification varies depending on the level of certification desired. For Level 1 certification, it costs $30 USD; whereas, for Level 2 certification it costs $50 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the program or taking the online assessment itself.

5. Professional Typing and Data Entry Certificate Program

A Professional Typing and Data Entry Certificate Program is a program designed to teach students the skills necessary to become proficient in typing and data entry. The program typically consists of courses that cover topics such as keyboarding, word processing, spreadsheets, database management, and other related topics. The length of the program varies depending on the institution offering it but usually takes between six months to a year to complete.

In order to get the certificate, students must successfully complete all required courses with passing grades. Some programs may also require students to take an exam or pass a final project in order to receive their certificate.

The cost of the program depends on the institution offering it but can range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars. Additionally, some institutions may offer financial aid or scholarships for those who qualify.

6. National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC)

The National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC) is a credential that certifies an individual’s skills in reading, applied mathematics, and locating information. It is designed to help employers identify qualified job applicants and measure their readiness for the workplace. The NCRC is issued by ACT, Inc., a nonprofit organization that provides educational assessment services.

It typically takes about two hours to complete the three tests required for the NCRC. The tests are administered online or at a testing center and include: Applied Mathematics, Reading for Information, and Locating Information. Each test requires 30 minutes to complete and costs $15 each ($45 total).

To get the NCRC, individuals must first register with ACT to take the three tests. Once all three tests have been completed successfully, individuals will receive their official certificate in the mail.

The cost of the NCRC varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs $45 for all three tests ($15 per test). However, some states offer discounted pricing or free testing if you meet certain criteria such as being unemployed or receiving government assistance.

7. Certified Professional Typist (CPT) Certification

Certified Professional Typist (CPT) Certification is an industry-recognized certification for typists who wish to demonstrate their professional typing skills. The CPT certification is issued by the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP).

To become a Certified Professional Typist, applicants must pass a two-part examination that tests their knowledge and skill in keyboarding, formatting documents, proofreading, and other related topics. The exam consists of a multiple choice section and a timed practical section. The practical portion requires applicants to type a given document within the allotted time frame.

The CPT exam takes approximately three hours to complete. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their CPT certificate and be eligible to use the CPT designation after their name.

The cost of taking the CPT exam varies depending on the country where it is taken. Generally, the cost ranges from $50-$100 USD.

8. National Speed Typing Test (NSTT) Certification

The National Speed Typing Test (NSTT) Certification is a certification program offered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT). It is designed to measure an individual’s ability to type accurately and quickly. The test consists of two parts: a timed typing test, and an accuracy test.

The timed typing test requires the tester to type a set of words as quickly as possible while maintaining accuracy. The accuracy portion of the test requires the tester to correct any errors made during the timed portion.

It typically takes about 30 minutes to complete both portions of the NSTT Certification exam.

To get certified, you must register with NCCT and pay a fee. The cost of registration varies depending on your location and whether or not you are taking the exam online or in person. Generally, it costs between $60-$90 USD for online testing and $80-$110 USD for in-person testing.

Once registered, you will receive instructions on how to take the exam, including where and when it will be administered. After completing the exam, you will receive your results within 48 hours via email from NCCT. If you pass both portions of the exam, you will receive your official NSTT Certification certificate in the mail within 4-6 weeks.

9. American Business and Professional Institute (ABPI) Typing Certificate

The American Business and Professional Institute (ABPI) Typing Certificate is a certification program that tests the typing proficiency of individuals. It is designed to assess the speed, accuracy, and overall performance of an individual’s typing skills. The certificate is obtained by taking an online or in-person test administered by ABPI.

The test consists of two parts: a timed typing test and a written evaluation. During the timed portion, the individual must type as many words as possible within a set amount of time. The written evaluation assesses the individual’s ability to use proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation while typing.

The ABPI Typing Certificate typically takes about one hour to complete. To obtain the certificate, individuals must register for the test through ABPI’s website or contact their local testing center for more information. The cost of obtaining the certificate varies depending on where it is taken; however, most centers charge between $50-$100 per person.

10. National Tutoring Association (NTA) Certified Typist

The National Tutoring Association (NTA) Certified Typist is a certification program that recognizes typists who have achieved a high level of proficiency in typing. The certification is designed to demonstrate a typist’s ability to accurately and quickly type documents, emails, and other written materials.

To become NTA Certified, applicants must pass an online assessment that tests their typing speed and accuracy. The test consists of two parts: a timed writing section and an accuracy section. To pass the test, applicants must score at least 80% on both sections.

The NTA Certified Typist program typically takes about one hour to complete. Applicants can take the assessment as many times as they need until they reach the required score.

The cost for taking the NTA Certified Typist assessment varies depending on the provider, but typically ranges from $25 to $50 USD.

Once applicants have passed the assessment, they will receive an official certificate of completion from the NTA that can be used to demonstrate their typing proficiency to employers or clients.

Do You Really Need a Typist Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's specific needs and goals. For some people, a typist certificate may be necessary in order to gain employment or to advance their career. A typist certificate can demonstrate competence and proficiency in keyboarding, which is a valuable skill for many employers. It can also help enhance job opportunities for those who are seeking employment in the fields of data entry, customer service, or administrative support.

For those who are already employed or have experience with typing, a typist certificate may not be essential. However, having one could still provide an advantage when applying for jobs or promotions. It is also possible that having a certificate can lead to higher pay since it demonstrates the holder has achieved a certain level of expertise.

In addition to providing an advantage in job searches and promotions, having a typist certificate may also open up new opportunities for self-improvement and growth. Many courses related to typing are available online and through continuing education centers. These courses can help improve keyboarding skills and teach new techniques that can increase speed and accuracy while typing. They can also provide valuable insights into the latest technologies and trends related to data entry systems and software programs.

Ultimately, whether you need a typist certificate depends on your individual circumstances. Consider your goals carefully before making any decisions about obtaining one; it could make all the difference in how successful you are in achieving them!

Related: Typist Resume Examples

FAQs About Typist Certifications

1. What is a Typist Certification?

A Typist Certification is a professional qualification that demonstrates a typist's proficiency in keyboarding and typing skills. It shows employers that the typist has the necessary skills to perform their job effectively and efficiently.

2. How do I get a Typist Certification?

In order to obtain a Typist Certification, you must take an approved typing test administered by an authorized testing center or institution. Most tests are timed and require the typist to type at least 30 words per minute with 90 percent accuracy.

3. Are there any prerequisites for taking a Typing Test?

Yes, most typing tests require that you have basic knowledge of computers as well as some typing experience prior to taking the test. Additionally, some testing centers may require that you complete an application process before taking the exam.

4. How long does it take to get certified?

The length of time it takes to become certified depends on your level of experience and how quickly you learn the material on the test. Generally speaking, most people can be certified within 2-4 weeks if they dedicate themselves to studying for the exam.

5. Is there an age limit for taking a Typing Test?

No, there is no age limit for taking a typing test; however, since many tests are timed, younger typists may find it more difficult than more experienced typists who have had more practice with keyboarding skills.