Unlock Your Future: 17 Essential Entry-Level IT Certifications to Kickstart Your Career

Elevate Your Career with IT Certifications

IT certifications are more than just a line on your resume; they validate your skills, enhance your marketability, and can even boost your salary. If you're looking to stand out in the competitive job market, especially at the entry level, pursuing the right certifications is crucial. Here’s a curated list of 17 entry-level IT certifications that can help you take that first step toward a successful career in technology.

17 Entry-Level IT Certs to Jump-Start Your Career

• Apple Professional Training Courses: Essential for IT support and management within the Apple ecosystem.
• AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner (CCP): Covers the fundamentals of AWS cloud services.
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): Focuses on understanding and counteracting hacking strategies.
• Certified ScrumMaster (CSM): Validates skills in agile project management using Scrum.
• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): Covers networking fundamentals and job roles.
• Cisco Certified Technician (CCT): Validates troubleshooting skills for Cisco devices.
• CompTIA Certifications: Includes A+, IT Fundamentals+, Network+, and Security+.
• GIAC Information Security Fundamentals (GISF): Demonstrates expertise in IT security fundamentals.
• Google Cloud Digital Leader: Validates skills in navigating Google Cloud products.
• ISACA Information Technology Certified Associate (ITCA): Covers various IT domains for entry-level professionals.
• ITIL 4 Foundation: Focuses on IT service management best practices.
• Linux Essentials Certification: Tests fundamental knowledge of Linux systems.
• Microsoft Certified: Fundamentals: Covers basic skills in Microsoft products.
• Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA): Covers a wide range of IT fundamentals.
• Oracle Certified Associate (OCA): Focuses on foundational knowledge of Java programming.
• PMI Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM): Recognizes project management knowledge.
• Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP): Validates skills in IT infrastructure security.

Exam Fees Overview

• Apple Professional Training: $149 per exam
• AWS CCP: $100
• CEH: Ranges from $2,399 to $3,499 depending on the course format
• CCNA: $300
• CompTIA: $75 to $125 per exam
• Other certs vary, generally ranging from $99 to $979.

By obtaining any of these certifications, you'll not only enhance your resume but also gain the essential skills needed to thrive in the ever-evolving tech landscape.