Our courses lead to two different documents, and they have different requirements. Mixing them up is the most common source of confusion about exam eligibility, so this article sets out exactly what each one needs.
The Two Credentials
Certificate of Completion
A printable proof that you have finished the mandatory components of a course: the mandatory exercises and the mandatory videos. It is issued by the learning platform, and it does not involve an exam.
Certified credential
The official certification you earn by passing the practical exam. It comes with a PDF certificate and a digital badge. It is awarded on the basis of your exam result alone.
What Each One Requires
Do you need to finish all mandatory work?
Certificate of Completion: Yes. All mandatory exercises and mandatory videos must be complete.
Certified exam: No.
Do you need to pass the exam?
Certificate of Completion: No. It is available regardless of exam status.
Certified exam: Yes. Passing the exam is the only requirement.
Do optional labs matter?
Neither credential requires optional labs. Optional content never blocks either one.
Exam Eligibility in Detail
You do not need to finish all mandatory labs, quizzes, or other mandatory course work before you:
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Schedule the exam
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Take the exam
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Pass the exam and receive the Certified credential
You can book and complete the exam even if some mandatory course items are still unfinished.
Completing the mandatory curriculum first is recommended, because the exam tests the skills those labs teach. It is a preparation recommendation, not a gate.
Choosing What to Do First
If your goal is the Certified credential, you can book the exam whenever you are ready. Working through the mandatory exercises beforehand will make you better prepared, but nothing stops you from sitting the exam either way.
If you also want the Certificate of Completion, finish every mandatory exercise and video in the portal. You can do this before or after your exam, in any order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to finish the mandatory parts to get into the exam?
No. You can schedule and sit the exam with mandatory exercises, videos, and challenges unfinished.
Do I have to finish the whole course before the exam?
No. Finishing the course is not required for the exam. It is only required for the Certificate of Completion.
Are the mandatory labs required for exam eligibility?
No. Nothing in the course gates exam eligibility. The mandatory labs are recommended preparation because the exam tests those skills.
Is anything required to sit the exam?
Only that you book it within your certification deadline. There is no completion requirement.
Can I get the Certificate of Completion without taking the exam?
Yes. Once all mandatory course elements are complete, the certificate is available regardless of exam status.
Can I pass the exam without the Certificate of Completion?
Yes. The two are independent.