How to Get Java Certified in 2023: The Complete Guide for Developers

Java is one of the most popular programming languages used by developers worldwide As one of the most in-demand tech skills, getting Java certified can help boost your career opportunities and earning potential as a software developer or engineer.

In this complete guide, I’ll explain everything you need to know about getting Java certified in 2023 including an overview of the various Oracle Java certifications, exam details, costs and tips for preparing through online courses and other resources. Whether you’re new to Java or have some experience already, read on to learn how to get certified!

Why Get Java Certified?

Here are some of the top reasons to earn an official Oracle Java certification

• Prove your skills – Passing a Java certification exam validates your knowledge and programming abilities in Java to employers. It shows you have the required skills for Java development roles.

• Higher pay – On average, developers with Java certifications earn higher salaries. One survey found certified developers make over $12,000 more than non-certified peers.

• Career advancement – Certification helps you qualify for more advanced roles like senior Java developer, lead developer, or architect.

• Gain confidence – Preparing for certification strengthens your Java skills and can boost confidence in your abilities.

• Increase job prospects – Certified Java developers are in high demand. Getting certified improves your chances of getting hired as competition for top jobs is fierce.

Overview of Oracle Java Certifications

Oracle offers six certification paths focused on different versions and aspects of the Java platform. Let’s look at each one and recommended experience levels:

• Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 11 Developer – Requires advanced Java knowledge and skills. Ideal for experienced Java developers.

• Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 8 Programmer – Requires working knowledge of Java SE 8. Best for developers with some experience.

• Oracle Certified Associate, Java SE 8 Programmer – Requires basic Java SE 8 knowledge. Aimed at students/beginners.

• Oracle Certified Professional, Java EE 7 Application Developer – Requires experience with Java EE and SEC. For mid-level+ developers.

• Oracle Certified Foundations Associate, Java – Requires core knowledge of Java fundamentals. For Java beginners.

• Oracle Certified Professional: Java SE 17 Developer – Requires advanced Java SE 17 skills. For experienced developers on latest version.

I recommend reviewing the detailed exam topics for each path to determine the best fit based on your current skill level and experience with Java. If you’re new to Java, start with the Associate/Foundations certs and work your way up.

Exam Details and Costs

Oracle Java certification exams consist of multiple choice questions and performance-based simulations. Here are some key details on format, length, and costs:

• Question format: Multiple choice, multiple response, matching, simulated code snippets
• Number of questions: Ranges from 50 to 90 questions
• Exam length: 90 to 150 minutes
• Cost to take exam: $245 per exam attempt (in the US)
• # of exams required: Typically one exam per certification
• Where to take exam: At Pearson VUE authorized testing centers
• How often updated: New versions released to align with Java version updates

I recommend checking the exact exam details for your chosen certification path as specifics can vary. Also note that discounts on exam costs may be available for students and through prep course bundles.

How to Prepare for the Java Certification Exam

Give yourself plenty of time, ideally 2-3 months, to properly prepare for your Java certification exam. Here are some top tips on how to get ready:

• Pick a certification path – Select the Java certification that matches your experience level.

• Study exam objectives – Download and review the exam objectives/syllabus so you know which topics are covered.

• Take a Java review course – Complete a prep course focused on the exam. Coursera, Udemy, LinkedIn Learning offer good options.

• Use exam practice tests – Take sample tests to identify knowledge gaps and get comfortable with question formats.

• Review code samples – Study code snippets and work through Java coding exercises to sharpen skills.

• Read certification books – Books like OCA/OCP Java SE 8 Programmer Certification Kit offer detailed exam coverage.

• Build Java projects – Creating Java programs and apps ensures you can apply concepts hands-on.

I recommend using a combination of courses, books, practice tests and hands-on coding to fully prepare for the diverse topics covered on the exams.

Tips for Passing the Java Certification Exam

Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind on exam day to help you pass your Java certification test on the first try:

• Arrive early – Make sure to arrive at the test center with time to spare to get settled in.

• Read carefully – Take time to thoroughly read and understand each question/scenario before answering.

• Manage time – Keep an eye on the timer so you don’t spend too long on any one question.

• Answer first in mind – Come up with an answer in your head first, then look for it among the choices.

• Flag tricky questions – Mark questions you want to return to so you can focus.

• Avoid overthinking – Don’t change answers repeatedly or overanalyze questions. Often your first choice is best.

• Check at end – Leave enough time to review flagged questions at the end.

• Relax – Eat a good meal, take deep breaths, and try to stay calm on exam day. Being relaxed will help you focus.

With thorough preparation using the right study resources and smart exam-day strategies, you’ll be on your way to passing your Java certification exam on the first attempt!

Java Certification Salaries and Job Outlook

Adding an official Java certification to your resume can provide a nice boost to your earning potential as a developer. Here are some key salary and job growth insights based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):

• Java developer average salary: $105,072 per year

• Overall developer job growth: 22% (much faster than average)

• Android developer average salary: $88,835 per year

• Full stack developer average salary: $90,897 per year

As you can see, Java developers generally earn very competitive salaries, especially when certified. With strong demand for developers projected in the coming decade, getting certified in Java can help maximize your job prospects and pay.

Java Certification Career Paths

Pursuing Java certification opens doors to a wide range of careers. Here are examples of in-demand jobs perfect for certified Java developers:

• Java software developer – Design, build, and support Java-based applications. Requires strong Java and OOP skills.

• Android developer – Develop mobile apps for Android platform. Java experience is very applicable.

• Full stack developer – Work on front-end, back-end, databases across the stack. Java is a leading back-end language.

• Java architect – Lead Java projects and make high-level technical decisions. Requires advanced Java skills.

• Java web developer – Build and implement web apps using Java technologies like Spring and JavaServer Pages.

The great thing about Java is it applies across many development roles. Getting certified will qualify you for these exciting, high-paying careers in Java.

Maintaining Your Java Certification

It’s important to keep your Java certification current as new versions of Java are released. Here are some tips:

• Retake certification exams as major new Java versions come out, such as Java 17.

• Attend conferences and training to stay on top of Java changes.

• Learn new Java frameworks and tools like Spring Boot and MicroProfile.

• Work on Java development projects regularly to keep skills sharp.

• Consider earning additional specialized Oracle Java certifications.

Keeping your certification up to date and expanding your skills will ensure you remain competitive and employable as a Java developer.

Is Getting Java Certified Worth It?

With smart preparation using online courses and practice tests, you can pass your Java certification exam on the first try. And with over 9 million Java developers worldwide, earning a Java certification helps you stand out in this highly competitive field.

So for any developer who is serious about mastering Java and reaching the next level in their career, I highly recommend getting Java certified. The payoff in terms of salary, jobs, and demand for your skills will make the effort more than worthwhile.