Getting SAP Certified: Is It Worth It?

There is no denying that SAP is one of the largest ERP systems in the world; they have nearly 112,000 employees worldwide, and around 480,000 companies are using the platform across the globe.

So, tell us – are you certified? 

Among the 150+ SAP certifications available, which would be most beneficial to you as an SAP professional? Is it worth spending the time and money on them? 

Let’s look at some of the main advantages of attaining an SAP certification: 

• Improved Job Performance: The process of learning and development throughout the certification process can leave you better equipped to troubleshoot issues faster, optimise workflows, and reduce system downtime. 

• Credibility & Industry Recognition: A certification proves your expertise, making you a more trusted asset for potential employers and clients.

• Career Growth: Certifications can lead to better job opportunities (you'll be in demand!) and potentially higher salaries. 

• Global Recognition: SAP certifications are recognised worldwide. If you're certified, you can validate your SAP skills on the global market.

• Future-Proof Skills: Earning an SAP certification ensures you stay up to date on the latest advancements, best practices and emerging technologies within the platform. 

But do you really need to be SAP certified?

We’ve gained an insider’s perspective from some of our SAP Recruitment Specialists who work closely with SAP professionals, and the companies hiring them. 

"SAP certifications are available in all areas, so it goes without saying that getting certified in your speciality is your best bet. S/4HANA certification has become increasingly popular among people seeking certification in a core modular area as well." 

Jonathan La - SAP Client Development Director

"Having an associate certification can make you more desirable to companies in a SuccessFactors capacity, indicating that you can handle provisioning, customising, and configuration in their particular specialism."  

Christopher Zinonos - Head of SAP Recruitment

"Holding a professional certification requires candidates to have been involved in several end-to-end implementations that are verified by their clients. A certification of this type does give an individual gravitas, and typically the candidate can request a higher salary because they are in greater demand or have a better skill set."  

Christophe Ramen - SAP Recruitment Specialist

"There is definitely value in holding certifications, with associate and professional certs holding different weight. They're a great demonstration of skills. However, they are very situational - it all depends on what the project customer needs, for example provisioning access."

Ben Wilson - SAP Recruitment Specialist

"As with any certification, gaining one (or more, if you chose to) can potentially increase your salary/rate. Not necessarily directly, but you could become more desirable to companies (depending on their needs) should you have a certification, meaning they would be more inclined to spend more on getting the best talent." 

Francesca Siniscalchi - Senior SAP Recruitment Specialist

"The application process is influenced by the client and their requests, but ultimately, holding a certification strengthens your application, cements your expertise in specific areas, allows you to conduct certain functions, and allows you to charge higher rates. Having a certification is sometimes a prerequisite for even being considered for certain positions. At face value, a SAP certification will improve your image, thereby improving your job prospects."

Fabian Nicolae Mereuta - SAP Recruitment Specialist

So it all hinges on what your prospective employer/the project customer actually needs. However, if there are areas, such as SuccessFactors, that you specialise in, where a certification will upskill you and give you access to greater functionalities, then it's a no-brainer.

But let's get down to the brass tacks. You need to consider the financial side of getting certified...

Yes, certifications cost money. However, if you are certified, you’ll be more attractive to prospective employers, which can be more lucrative for you. While there are companies out there that will assist you with studying, this isn’t guaranteed, so be prepared to make an independent investment in your training. And that's what it is, an investment. 

Expert SAP consultants have both SAP experience and certifications. It's safe to say that gaining an SAP certification could really benefit you as a professional looking to establish your skills in SAP or excel in your career. Getting SAP certified - is it worth it? Yes. 

If you are a SAP professional looking for your next venture, or would like advice on how to propel your SAP career, upload your CV today. Our Recruitment Specialists will be able to advise on how to achieve your career goals, how to stand out from the crowd, and take you through any relevant opportunities.