We know that being certified in certain skills can help you attract and build trust with prospective clients. That’s why we developed skills certifications.
Upwork Skill Certifications are currently invitation-only and limited to certain skills in the three fields: Web, Mobile, and Software Development, Design & Creative, and Customer Service. We hope to add more skill categories in the future.
To become skill-certified in Design and Creative, you first need to be invited. Next, you'll need to submit work for review.
Earn a Certification in Design and Creative
Before submitting your work to be considered for an Upwork Skill Certification, we recommend that you update your portfolio with images and details about your most recent and best work.
You will need to have four unique examples demonstrating the skill in which you are being evaluated. Provide as much information as possible about your role in each project, including your responsibilities and accomplishments within the project.
For video-related skills, embed your videos within your portfolio.
PRO TIP
Check out these details on how to update your portfolio and 4 Ways to Create a More Successful Portfolio.
Portfolio Evaluation
A panel of domain experts with expertise in your field reviews your portfolio for demonstrated current best design practices.
We will evaluate your work based on these areas (as applicable to the skill being evaluated):
- Creativity
- Demonstrated technical tool aptitude
- Overall portfolio curation
- Recent and complex project work
- Layout and information hierarchy
Motion graphics and animation
- Demo reel
- Use of audio
- Animation
- Pace
- Meaningful motion
Videography
- Strong camera skills and shot composition
- Video editing and post-production skills
Important Guidelines
When you decide to go through the certification process, you acknowledge that you understand and agree to follow these guidelines:
Individual freelancers must showcase original content in their portfolios. If some portfolio pieces were created as part of a team or agency, provide information about your role prominently within the description.
What if I don't pass the test?
If you don’t pass the test, don't worry! Nothing will display on your Upwork profile.
If you followed all the guidelines but don’t achieve a passing score, you may request to retake the test again in six months. To request a second test, send an email to assessments@upwork.com.
If you take the test without following the guidelines, you cannot retake the test. At this time, we are not able to provide additional details when guidelines aren’t met, so we recommend paying close attention to them beforehand.
Learn more about Upwork Skill Certifications here.