Cloud Certifications (AWS / Azure)

What it is

Cloud certificates prove you can work with AWS (Amazon Web Services) or Microsoft Azure, the two biggest "cloud" platforms that run a huge share of the world's websites, apps and company systems. Instead of computers sitting in an office, the cloud rents computing power over the internet, and companies need people who can set it up and look after it. You start with an entry-level certificate, AWS Cloud Practitioner or Azure AZ-900, then move up to associate level, such as AWS Solutions Architect or Azure AZ-104.

Who it suits

This is one of the best IT entries for newcomers, and the most friendly of all to people whose first language is not English. Cloud work is in very high demand, it is often remote, and it pays well once you are established. It suits self-motivated learners who can study at home, including career-changers with no UK degree. You do need to be comfortable learning technical material, but you do not need years of computer experience to start at the entry level.

How you qualify

1. Start with an entry-level exam: AWS Cloud Practitioner or Azure AZ-900.
2. Study on your own with online courses and practice tests. No classroom course is required.
3. Book and pass the exam online or at a test centre.
4. Move up to associate level (AWS Solutions Architect or Azure AZ-104) once you have the basics.

Cost and how long it takes

Exams cost roughly $100–165 each, which is cheaper than many other IT certificates. Most people are ready in a few months of part-time study. Because cloud providers change their prices, exam codes and rules fairly often, check the official AWS or Microsoft site for the current fee and exam details before you commit, rather than relying only on the figure here.

The English you need

The English bar is medium, and this is where cloud certificates really stand out for this audience. AWS Cloud Practitioner offers a Chinese-language version of the exam, and it grants a permanent extra 30 minutes for non-native English speakers. That makes AWS the friendliest cloud route by a clear margin. Azure AZ-900 and AZ-104 come next. Google Cloud is the least friendly: it has no Chinese-language exam, and any extra time is decided case by case. So if English is a worry, start with AWS Cloud Practitioner: the Chinese exam and the guaranteed extra time take a lot of pressure off. If you still find the material hard in English, a short ESOL course alongside your study will help.

The honest reality

A certificate is not a job. It gets you noticed, but you still have to apply, build small practice projects to show what you can do, and often start in a cloud support role before moving up. The field is competitive precisely because the pay and the remote-working options are good, so expect to keep learning after you pass. Avoid costly "guaranteed job" bootcamps: these exams are designed for self-study, and the official practice materials plus a reputable online course are enough to pass without spending thousands.

What you can earn

Cloud roles are among the better-paid in IT and are frequently remote, which is a real advantage if you need flexible work. Entry-level cloud support pays less than the senior engineer and architect roles you can grow into. Treat any salary figures you read online as rough estimates, not guarantees: actual pay depends on the employer, the exact role and your experience.

Your next step

Choose AWS Cloud Practitioner as your starting point, especially if you would benefit from the Chinese-language exam and the extra 30 minutes. Sign up for a well-reviewed beginner course, work through the practice exams, and book the test once your scores are steady. You can confirm the current exam options and fees on the official AWS site linked below.