Today I took and passed my Excel Certification from NCSA. The test questions were in the normal multiple choice format and came from one of three categories: Excel Basics, Advanced Concepts, and Efficiency/Usage in about equal parts. At the end of the exam I was given a breakdown of my score. I got a 3.7 overall with a 4.0 in efficiency/usage (thanks to knowing all the shortcut keys)
Overall, I think the exam hit it’s target of testing ability from the beginner to the intermediate level. This would be a great exam for secretary/administrative assistant candidates to complete. Excel is the standard for spreadsheets in the business world and having a certification like this on your resume certainly can’t hurt your chances. NCSA claims that studies have shown an increase of up to 17% response to resumes listing an NCSA certification over those with no formal education.
Once the test was complete I was given the usual options to get my online basic certification for $24, a ‘premier’ certification for $34 that includes a signed and sealed hard copy of my certificate delivered to me, and a $69 membership which gives you the premier benefits plus unlimited additional certifications for one year as well as access to members only certification exams.
