Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu, has introduced Canonical Academy, a platform for certifying Linux and Ubuntu skills. The initiative offers practical, hands-on exams to prepare professionals for real-world challenges. It begins with a System Administrator track featuring modular assessments based on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS.
Canonical, known for driving Ubuntu's development and making Linux accessible across desktops and cloud infrastructure, announced the launch of Canonical Academy on October 25, 2025. This self-paced certification platform emphasizes practical skills through cloud-based testing environments that simulate workplace scenarios, moving beyond theoretical knowledge to ready users for on-the-job demands.
The initial offering is the System Administrator track, initially described with three certification exams but detailed as four examinations. These include: Using Linux Terminal 2024, available now to everyone; Using Ubuntu Desktop 2024 and Using Ubuntu Server 2024, both in beta testing; and Managing Complex Systems 2024, under development. Exams are modular, allowing learners to complete individual assessments, earn badges aligned with specific Ubuntu LTS versions, and achieve the full Sysadmin qualification upon finishing the track. While preparation is self-paced without deadlines, the exams themselves are timed.
All current exams are based on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, with updates planned for Ubuntu 26.04 LTS expected in September 2026. Adrianna Frick, Academy Team Lead at Canonical, commented on the platform's focus, though specific details of her statement were not provided in announcements.
Canonical invites community members to participate as beta testers or subject-matter experts to help shape the platform. Interested individuals can visit the Canonical Academy website to begin certifications, supporting career advancement in tech roles or formalizing existing skills.