How to Get Free Certificate From Programming?
Getting a free certificate in programming is possible through various online platforms that offer free courses in coding and development. Here’s a list of popular platforms that offer free programming courses and certificates:
1. Coursera
Coursera offers many free programming courses from top universities and companies, including Stanford, Google, and the University of Michigan. While certificates are typically paid, you can apply for financial aid and earn a certificate for free.
Steps:
- Visit Coursera.
- Browse programming courses (e.g., Python, Java, C++, Web Development).
- Choose a course and click on “Enroll for Free.”
- Apply for Financial Aid (found in the course enrollment section).
- Once accepted, complete the course and earn a certificate at no cost.
2. edX
edX offers a wide variety of free programming courses from institutions like Harvard, MIT, and Microsoft. While the courses are free to access, you typically need to pay for a verified certificate. However, you can still audit courses for free (with no certificate).
Steps:
- Visit edX.
- Browse through programming courses in languages like Python, Java, and JavaScript.
- Choose a course and select the “Audit” option to access materials for free.
- Some courses offer financial assistance, allowing you to receive a certificate for free.
3. FreeCodeCamp
FreeCodeCamp is a completely free online platform that provides coding tutorials and exercises. It offers certifications upon completion of each learning section, such as Responsive Web Design, JavaScript Algorithms, and Data Structures.
Steps:
- Visit FreeCodeCamp.
- Sign up for a free account.
- Start working through the curriculum and projects.
- Once completed, you’ll receive a free certificate.
4. Udemy
Udemy offers a mix of free and paid courses, and some of the free courses provide certificates upon completion. You can find various programming courses, such as Web Development, Python, and JavaScript.
Steps:
- Visit Udemy.
- Search for free programming courses.
- Enroll in a course and complete it.
- After completion, you can download your certificate.
5. SoloLearn
SoloLearn provides free coding courses on mobile and web platforms. It offers a range of courses in programming languages like Python, Java, C++, and JavaScript. While SoloLearn doesn’t provide the most in-depth certifications, they are a great way to get started.
Steps:
- Download the SoloLearn app or visit the website.
- Enroll in a free programming course.
- Complete lessons, quizzes, and challenges.
- Earn a free certificate after completing the course.
6. The Odin Project
The Odin Project provides a full-stack web development curriculum for free. It covers essential skills such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Git, Node.js, and databases. After completing the curriculum, you’ll receive a free certificate.
Steps:
- Visit The Odin Project.
- Sign up and start learning web development for free.
- Complete the projects and assignments.
- Receive a certificate upon completion.
7. Khan Academy
Khan Academy offers free online tutorials in various subjects, including programming. Their JavaScript and SQL courses are particularly popular. Though they don’t offer a certificate like other platforms, you can gain knowledge and recognition for completing the course.
Steps:
- Visit Khan Academy.
- Explore their programming section.
- Complete the exercises and projects.
- While there is no formal certificate, you’ll receive badges and can document your progress.
8. LinkedIn Learning
LinkedIn Learning offers free access to some programming courses, especially with a trial period. If you’re new to LinkedIn Learning, you can get one month free, which can be used to complete a course and earn a certificate.
Steps:
- Visit LinkedIn Learning.
- Sign up for the free trial.
- Choose a programming course and complete it within the free trial.
- Receive a certificate of completion after finishing the course.
9. Google’s Digital Garage
Google offers free courses on a variety of topics, including programming and web development. Some of their courses provide certificates upon completion.
Steps:
- Visit Google Digital Garage.
- Look for the free courses related to programming.
- Complete the course and receive a certificate.
10. Codecademy
Codecademy offers free access to many of their introductory programming courses. While the free plan does not provide a certificate for every course, Codecademy Pro (paid version) does. However, you can still gain substantial programming knowledge for free.
Steps:
- Visit Codecademy.
- Sign up for a free account.
- Choose a beginner programming course.
- Complete the course to gain valuable programming skills (free access may not offer a certificate but provides fundamental knowledge).
11. Microsoft Learn
Microsoft Learn offers free programming courses in topics such as Azure, C#, .NET, and Python. These courses come with certifications, which can be earned for free after completing assessments and exams.
Steps:
- Visit Microsoft Learn.
- Browse through available programming and technical courses.
- Complete courses and exams to earn a free certificate.
Conclusion
There are several platforms where you can learn programming for free and earn certificates. Some offer completely free certificates upon completion (e.g., FreeCodeCamp, The Odin Project), while others may require financial aid applications or a free trial to earn a certificate (e.g., Coursera, edX, LinkedIn Learning). You can explore these platforms, learn at your own pace, and use the certificates to boost your resume or showcase your programming skills.