Imagine your career as a video game—getting a professional certification is like unlocking a powerful new ability that supercharges your character. As an administrative assistant, this certification isn’t just a fancy title; it’s a turbo boost for your professional journey. It shows employers you’re serious about leveling up your skills and can handle more complex challenges. Plus, it acts as a gateway to exciting new career paths you might not have considered before, from project coordination to office management. By investing in yourself now, you’re essentially crafting a custom power-up that’ll make your career path more exciting and rewarding.

Certified Administrative Professional (CAP)
Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Expert
Administrative Assistant Certification (ExpertRating)

Certified Administrative Professional (CAP)

The CAP certification is highly relevant for administrative assistants as it covers a wide range of skills essential to the role, including organizational communication, business writing, and project management. This certification demonstrates expertise in administrative duties and can lead to career advancement and higher earning potential

The CAP is offered by the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP), a well-established organization with a strong reputation in the field.

• Investment:
  • Exam fee: $375 for IAAP members, $575 for non-members
  • Study materials: $200-$500 (approximate)
• Prerequisites and requirements:
  • A bachelor’s degree and 2 years of administrative experience, OR
  • An associate degree and 3 years of administrative experience, OR
  • 4 years of administrative experience with no degree
  • Pass a comprehensive exam

For more information: https://www.iaap-hq.org/page/CAP_Certification

Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Expert

The MOS Expert certification is crucial for administrative assistants as it validates advanced skills in Microsoft Office applications, which are essential tools in most office environments. This certification can significantly enhance an assistant’s productivity and efficiency in daily tasks

Microsoft, a global leader in technology, offers this certification, ensuring its credibility and recognition across industries.

• Investment:
  • Exam fee: $100-$165 per exam (varies by location)
  • Study materials: $50-$200 (approximate)
• Prerequisites and requirements:
  • No formal prerequisites
  • Pass individual exams for Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Access at the Expert level

For more information: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/credentials/certifications/microsoft-office-specialist-associate-2019/

Administrative Assistant Certification (ExpertRating)

This certification covers essential skills for office administration, making it relevant for those starting their careers or looking to formalize their expertise. It provides a comprehensive overview of administrative duties and can help candidates stand out in the job market

ExpertRating is recognized by many employers and has provided certification services to major companies like Google, UPS, and IKEA.

• Investment:
  • Certification fee: $99.99
• Prerequisites and requirements:
  • No formal prerequisites
  • Complete online courseware
  • Pass an online test

For more information: https://www.expertrating.com/certifications/office-skills/Administrative-Assistant-Certification.asp