GitHub Certification Program FAQs

General:

  1. What is the GitHub Certification Program?
    The GitHub Certification program partners with PSI to deliver certification exams in local test centers or online. GitHub certifications are an industry-endorsed approach to demonstrating proficiency with GitHub technologies. Earning a GitHub certification gives you the competitive edge needed in the market today by allowing you to promote your skills as a GitHub expert.
  2. How can I join?
    To join the GitHub Certification program, please visit our certification website. Here, you will find detailed information about the certifications we offer, as well as the registration process. We encourage you to explore the website to learn more about the program and how to get started on your certification journey.
  3. Does the Certification program support Enterprise Managed User (EMU) accounts?
    GitHub does not allow EMU accounts in the system due to several reasons. EMU accounts have many restrictions on GitHub, including limited access and visibility. We encourage users to use their personal GitHub accounts for certification purposes, as certifications will remain attached to their profiles even if they leave the company. Users that associate their work email with their personal GitHub account will automatically be joined to their parent organization. Users are free to use their corporate email and personal GitHub handle. For more information about the limitations with managed accounts you can visit the following resource:Abilities and restrictions of managed user accounts - GitHub Enterprise Cloud Docs.
  4. How can I tie my corporate email to my personal GitHub account?
    To access any partner benefits you need to first associate your partner company email address with your GitHub account. For example, if you work for Microsoft, please add your @microsoft.com email address to your GitHub account. Your company email address doesn’t need to be the primary email address associated with your GitHub account but it does need to be verified. To add your company email address to your GitHub account follow these steps:
    • Go to GitHub Settings
    • In the left column, under Access, click Emails.
    • In the Add email address text box, enter your company email, and then click Add.
    • Check your email for instructions on how to verify your email address.
  5. Can I have multiple GitHub accounts in the certification program?
    No, you cannot have multiple accounts in our certification program. We are unable to edit GitHub handles or transfer scheduled exams between accounts. It is highly recommended that you use a personal GitHub handle and consistently use the same handle for all your certifications.
  6. What should I do if I scheduled an exam with an old GitHub handle?
    If you have scheduled an exam using your old GitHub handle, we recommend canceling that exam. You will need to register for the exam again through our certification site, ensuring that you are logged in using your new GitHub handle to book the exam. This will prevent any issues with your certification records.
  7. Can I transfer a voucher to another account if it has been consumed?
    No, we are unable to transfer a voucher once it has been consumed to purchase an exam. Please ensure that you are using the correct GitHub handle when applying a voucher to avoid any issues.
  8. How can I transfer my certification history to a new GitHub handle?
    If you have certifications linked to your old GitHub handle, you can transfer your history to your new handle within our system. However, please note that this transfer will not reflect in PSI's system.To transfer your certification history:
    • Log in with your old GitHub handle on the certification registration site.
    • Click on the Octocat icon in the top right corner of the certification site.
    • Find and select the "Account Transfer" tab on the left-hand side.
    • Enter your new GitHub handle to transfer your certifications to that handle.
    This process will ensure that your certification history is updated in our system, though it will not impact PSI’s records.
  9. Will my certification history transfer in PSI’s system?
    No, any certification history transferred to a new GitHub handle will not reflect in PSI's system. The transfer only applies to our internal system. For PSI records, you will need to continue using the GitHub handle associated with your original certification bookings.
  10. Are there any prerequisites?
    There are no required prerequisites. However, we recommend a working knowledge of GitHub and studying the learning modules on Microsoft Learn. For more information, please see the learning paths below.
  11. Where can I find study materials for the exams?
    GitHub offers a variety of self-paced learning content on Microsoft Learn. This content helps build necessary technical skills to advance your knowledge and ability to address solutions. These browser-based trainings are available to complete at your own pace. You can prepare for each exam by completing the associated learning path on Microsoft Learn. Additionally, please visit our certification landing page to find the study guides for each certification exam. The study guides contain objective domains structured to outline the specific knowledge, skills, and topics that the certification exam will cover. It provides a clear roadmap for what candidates should expect to encounter on the exam and what they need to study and prepare for.
  12. What skills do I need to complete the certificate program?
    On every certification page, you’ll find a “skills measured” section that lists the skills that will be assessed. Start by reviewing the skills measured by the exam. If you have the skills, you can register for the exam. If you want additional training, refer to the courses or learning paths in the “preparing for the certification” section.
  13. What is the expected response time for ticket inquiries?
    The response time for ticket inquiries can very depending on the nature of the issue and the workload of the support team. Typically, you can expect a response within 24-72 hours.
  14. Are new Mac device updates supported by PSI Online Proctor?
    PSI online proctor supports all software realeases within 30 days of their launch. If you have recently updated your Mac and experience any issues, we recommend reaching out to GitHub Support for assistance. To do so, please open a ticket using this link. We kindly request that you do not select the option to chat with Copilot in GitHub Support.
  15. Are new Ubuntu device updates supported by PSI Online Proctor?
    PSI's policy is to support only the Long-Term Support (LTS) versions of Ubuntu. PSI online proctor requires a 30-day period post-release to fully implement support for any new LTS version. If you have recently updated your device and experience any issues, we recommend reaching out to GitHub Support for assistance. To do so, please open a ticket using this link. We kindly request that you do not select the option to chat with Copilot in GitHub Support.

Top Five Common Issues:

  1. Using a work device

    Recommendation: We highly recommend using a personal computer rather than one issued by your employer or organization. Work-issued computers often have firewalls and security settings that may prevent the PSI software from functioning properly. Additionally, ensure you have administrative permissions on your device.

    Action: Please refer to the list of supported devices here: PSI Bridge FAQ System Requirements. For the best experience, use the latest version of the Chrome browser and run a system compatibility check before taking the exam.

  2. Unstable internet connectivity

    Recommendation: Ensure your connection through Twilio is functioning properly.

    Action: You can check your connection speed using Cloudflare Speed Test. A minimum upload and download speed of 3 Mbps is required for a smooth testing experience.

  3. Unable to connect to Microphone/video

    Recommendation: If you have multiple cameras or microphones, unplug or disable any that are not being used during the testing session.

    Action: Test your microphone and camera functionality through Twilio or Online Mic Test. Ensure that your microphone is the default device, functional, and turned on throughout the exam, including during the security check, check-in, and the exam itself. Note: Do not use headsets or earbuds, as most exams do not allow them. If you have multiple microphones, disable or unplug any that are not being used to prevent conflicts with the PSI Chrome Extension.

  4. Using an Unsupported Operating System

    Recommendation: Ensure that your operating system is supported. New operating systems will be supported within 30 days of their official public release. Beta versions of operating systems are not supported.

    Action: Please refer to the list of supported operating systems here: PSI Bridge FAQ System Requirements.

  5. Rescheduling with less than 48 hours before the exam

    Recommendation: You can cancel or reschedule your exam for any reason up to 48 hours before your scheduled appointment.

    Action: If an unforeseen circumstance occurs within that 48-hour window, we recommend reaching out to GitHub Support for assistance by opening a ticket using this link. Please note that GitHub is unable to cover the cost of any retakes for unexcused absences.

Partners Onboarding:

  1. How do I onboard as a Microsoft Partner?
    There are instructions in the Microsoft Partner Network portal on how a Microsoft Partner gets access. Partners need to provide us with their MPN number for us to verify on this page. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to your Microsoft Partner Development Manager resource.

Exam:

  1. How long are the exams?
    Our current exams are a duration of 120 minutes.
  2. How much do the exams cost?
    Currently, our exams are $99 USD. The exam retakes are not free of charge. Each attempt will require a payment of $99 USD.
  3. Are there practice exams?
    Currently, we do not offer practice exams for our Certification program. However, GitHub offers a range of self-paced learning resources on Microsoft Learn. These curated materials are designed to help individuals improve their technical skills and problem-solving abilities. The browser-based trainings can be completed at your own convenience. In Addition, we provide comprehensive study guides for all our exams. You can access the study materials by visiting the following link here.
  4. Is it possible to have a time extension?
    Please see the Accommodations section in our Candidate Handbook.
  5. What Does It Mean My Eligibility is About to Expire?
    Your exam eligibility is valid for a period of 60 days. You must schedule and take your exam within this timeframe. If you attempt to book your exam outside the 60-day window, you will need to reestablish your eligibility by registering for the exam again.
  6. If my plans change, and I cannot sit for the exam, what should I do?
    You can cancel or reschedule your exam for any reason up to 48 hours before your scheduled appointment. If an unforeseen circumstance happens within that window, we recommend reaching out to GitHub Support for assistance. To do so, please open a ticket using this link. We kindly request that you do not select the option to chat with Copilot in GitHub Support.
  7. What happens if I fail an exam?
    If you fail a certification exam, you can retake it. There is a 24-hour hold before you are able to attempt the first retake. A 14-day hold will be applied for each consecutive retake after the first retake. You may only retake the exam for a total of 5 attempts.
  8. I need an accommodation, how can I get one?
    Please see the Accommodations section in our Candidate Handbook.
  9. What score do I need to pass?
    Since there are multiple versions of the certification exams, the passing score can have minor variances depending on which version you take. To ensure the integrity of our exams, and to avoid confusion on why there is a small variance, we can not provide you with a specific total score.
  10. How is the exam formatted?
    Our current exams are: multiple-choice, have 60 scored items, and around 10-15 pretest items depending on the exam.
  11. Are the exams proctored?
    Yes, all of our exams are proctored through PSI, with the exception of the GitHub Foundations exam. During the scheduling process, you can choose to take the exam in a local test center or online. An online proctored exam requires the installation of a secure browser and reliable access to the internet. Please click here for the online proctored system requirements. If you’re interested in taking an online proctoring exam and want a better understanding on what to expect before registering, you can watch the PSI Online Proctoring Experience video.
  12. What does it mean that the GitHub Foundations exam is non-proctored?
    This means you can take the exam at any time without being monitored by a live proctor. There's no need to schedule a specific time or use video recording software during the exam. The non-proctored exam is available 24/7, allowing you to take it whenever it is most convenient for you.
  13. How do I schedule the GitHub Foundations exam?
    After purchasing the exam, you can access it through PSI's system by clicking the "Manage" option. From there, you can launch the exam whenever you are ready.
  14. Is there an expiration date for taking the GitHub Foundations exam after registering for it?
    Yes, you will have 60 days to take the exam after registering. When you register for the exam on our registration site, this initiates your exam eligibility. If you are unable to take the exam within that 60-day window, you may cancel the exam and receive a full refund.
  15. I was turned away, what do I do now?
    If you encounter any issues, please reach out to GitHub Support for assistance. To do so, please open a ticket using this link. We kindly request that you do not select the option to chat with Copilot in GitHub Support.
  16. How soon can I retake an exam?
    There is a 24-hour hold before you are able to attempt the first retake. A 14-day hold will be applied for each consecutive retake after the first retake. You may only retake the exam for a total of 5 attempts.
  17. What is the process for renewing a certification given that they are good for three years?
    GitHub certifications are currently valid for a minimum of three years. The exam refresh cycle depends on the evolution of each individual product, but on average, you can expect a new exam to be available approximately every three years. If a new exam has not been released in that timeframe, then we will work with our digital badging provider to extend the duration of the certification.

Contact:

  1. Whom can I contact on the day of my exam?
    The GitHub Certification program partners with PSI to deliver certification exams in local test centers or online. If you are experiencing technical issues during testing, please contact PSI's Technical Support Team at +1(877) 968-9328. Additionally, you may also use the PSI live support chat to seek assistance during the exam. If you experience any testing-related issues, please contact PSI's Candidate Services at +1(833) 333-4754.
  2. Whom can I contact with questions?
    If you have any questions, or encounter any issues, please reach out to GitHub Support for assistance. To do so, please open a ticket using this link. We kindly request that you do not select the option to chat with Copilot in GitHub Support.

Certifications & Badging:

  1. What's a digital badge?
    Digital badges are web-enabled versions of a credential, certification or learning outcome which can be verified in real-time, online.
  2. Are there badges available?
    Yes, we have partnered with Credly to translate the learning outcomes you’ve demonstrated into a badge, issued and managed through the company's digital badging platform. This enables you to manage, share and verify your competencies digitally.
  3. Will a certificate also be available?
    Yes, a certificate via Credly is available for download. Please see more information here.
  4. When might I expect my badge?
    During US working hours, you can expect communication from Credly within 24-48 hours after passing your certification. You should receive an email from Credly to your account associated with your corporate email address informing you of your new badge, which includes instructions for accepting it. Sometimes this email can go to spam, so double-check there as well.
  5. How can I share my badge?
    You can share your badge directly from Credly to LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook; over email; embedded in a website, or your email signature.
  6. Can I merge my account or add multiple emails to my account?
    To merge your accounts in Credly, please watch this informative video, or if you would like to learn more about adding multiple emails to your Credly account, go here for a step-by-step guide.
  7. What are the benefits of a badge?
    Representing your skills as a badge gives you a way to share your abilities online in a way that is simple, trusted and can be easily verified in real time. Badges provide employers and peers concrete evidence of what you had to do to earn your credential and what you’re now capable of.
  8. How long are badges/certificates good for?
    GitHub certifications are currently valid for a minimum of three years. The exam refresh cycle depends on the evolution of each individual product, but on average, you can expect a new exam to be available approximately every two years. If a new exam has not been released in that timeframe, then we will work with our digital badging provider to extend the duration of the certification.
  9. I’m having trouble with my badge, what should I do?
    If you have any questions, or encounter any issues, please reach out to GitHub Support for assistance. To do so, please open a ticket using this link. We kindly request that you do not select the option to chat with Copilot in GitHub Support.