Discover Salesforce Associate Certifications: Entry-Level Credentials

According to the IDC, there will be 9.3 million new Salesforce jobs by 2026. Additionally, a prior study found that nearly half a million job openings required at least one Salesforce skill. We’re committed to supporting our customers, partners, and job seekers and helping them become Salesforce-certified professionals with Salesforce Associate Certifications.

What are Salesforce Associate Certifications?

Salesforce Associate Certifications are entry-level credentials designed for those with 0-6 months of Salesforce experience. They’re the perfect start if you’re interested in understanding and using Salesforce. There are currently three associate-level certifications.

1. Salesforce Associate
   The Salesforce Associate Certification is designed for those familiar with Salesforce as a user. The exam validates that you have a working knowledge of reporting, user administration, sharing, customization, and data management at a foundational level. There’s no technical expertise required.
2. AI Associate
   The Salesforce AI Associate Certification is designed for people who might already have knowledge of artificial intelligence (AI), whether you’re a beginner or more experienced. The exam verifies foundational skills in ethical and responsible handling of data as they apply to AI in CRM.
3. Marketing Associate
   The Salesforce Marketing Associate Certification is designed for those with a foundational understanding of the Salesforce Platform and Salesforce Marketing Cloud Engagement. This certification highlights the knowledge, skills, and abilities of an individual new to Marketing Cloud and general marketing concepts.

How are associate certifications different from other Salesforce Certifications?

Salesforce Associate Certifications validate the foundational knowledge of learners with up to 6 months of Salesforce experience. The exams themselves are shorter in length and time than other Salesforce certifications. Since associate certifications are a stepping stone to more advanced certification offerings, there are no maintenance exams, unlike with professional certifications.

Salesforce Professional Certifications are designed for individuals with an extensive range of experience, knowledge, and skills in a specific Salesforce role or product. Maintenance requirements vary by specific certification, with most requiring annual updates so professionals stay current with the latest features and best practices.

Benefits of earning an associate certification 

If you’re new to Salesforce, it might be a challenge to identify which career path is right for you. ‌Salesforce Associate Certifications are a great way to build a foundation and begin your credentialing journey, without committing to a particular career path.

By preparing for the Salesforce Associate exam, you’ll better grasp how Salesforce works and which career path seems the most interesting to you. Salesforce MVP Lizz Hellinga shared her excitement for a certification designed for those who are just starting their Salesforce journey. She sees value in this credential for two main reasons.

“Firstly, having an understanding of Salesforce is important for many jobs. By and large, not everyone is going to become a Salesforce Administrator, but everyone needs Salesforce skills. This fills a gap that was missing.”

“Secondly, this is a great stepping stone for those planning to sit for the Salesforce Administrator exam one day. I teach an ‘Intro to Salesforce’ course at City Colleges, with Rebe de la Paz. This Associate exam will keep students engaged while they explore Salesforce careers. They might even be able to get a job using Salesforce in some capacity because of this cert.”

The AI Associate certification verifies your comprehension of foundational AI concepts and terminology. You’ll be able to speak about technology like machine learning, neural networks, and generative AI, and you’ll have a basic understanding of the out-of-the-box AI abilities that exist in Salesforce products.

The Marketing Associate certification confirms your knowledge of marketing metrics, target audiences, and compliance and privacy basics. You’ll be able to navigate Marketing Cloud Engagement to interact with customers and drive leads. This certification is a great entry point for those looking to become a Salesforce Certified Marketing Cloud Email Specialist or a Salesforce Certified Marketing Cloud Administrator.

Become a Certified Associate today

To become certified as a Salesforce Associate, AI Associate, or Marketing Associate, you must sit for an in-person or online exam. All exams are 40 questions and you complete the exam in the allotted time of 70 minutes. Each exam has a different set of suggested requirements and exam guides.

1. Join the Certification Exam Resources Trailblazer Community Group, where you can collaborate with others and find support. Connect with Trailblazers from around the globe to reach your goals together. 
2. Read the certification details and prepare for your exam with your associate certification prep resources.
3. Finally, when you’re ready, schedule your exam at a test center or online. You’ve got this!

Prove your skills, build confidence, and kick-start your certification journey as a Salesforce-Certified Associate.