This article provides you with a quick look at key information unique to these exams, the level, and versions. As always, our key exam preparation resources are the Exam Information Guide and Learning Plan located on the Exam Details Page and ArcGIS Documentation.
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Most Recent Versions:
These are the initial versions of the Foundation Level certification exams, which can be found on our website: https://www.esri.com/training/certification-find-exam/search/#foundation
- GIS Fundamentals Foundation 2024
- ArcGIS Pro Foundation 2025
- ArcGIS Developer Foundation 2201
GIS Fundamentals Foundation 2024
The 2024 exam version is designed for candidates with 150 hours of GIS coursework or 3-6 months of GIS workplace experience. The target audience includes roles with beginner level GIS experience such as: students taking GIS coursework, candidates seeking a GIS internships or entry-level positions, new geospatial analysts, developers creating applications for GIS programs.
ArcGIS Pro Foundation 2025
The 2025 exam version is designed for candidates with up to two years of knowledge, understanding, and experience with ArcGIS Pro. The target audience includes roles such as: non-GIS industry specialists, educators, college students, recent graduates, and those seeking entry-level positions.
- Exam Details Page in Esri Academy
- Published date: December 2021
- Exam State: Available to the public
- Exam Duration: 1 Hour, 30 Minutes
- Credly Badge: Coming Soon
- Previous Version: ArcGIS Pro Foundation 2101
ArcGIS Developer Foundation 2201
The 2201 exam version is designed for candidates with at least two years of experience interacting with the ArcGIS system and its APIs. The target audience includes roles such as: App solution developer, GIS developer, GIS analyst, GIS administrator.
Foundation Level Exam Comparison – Which is Right for You?
Not sure which foundation level exam is best for you? When deciding, open the Exam Information Guides for each exam (found by clicking on an exam in Esri Academy and selecting “Download Exam Information”) and compare the details in each guide to determine which best suits your skills. The key areas you’ll want to review are Target Candidate Audience, Description of Qualified Candidate, and Candidate Qualifications to ensure your skills align with the topics that will be in the exam.
Here is a quick comparison:
- The GIS Fundamentals Foundation exam is designed for candidates with 150 hours of GIS coursework or 3-6 months of GIS workplace experience
- The ArcGIS Pro Foundation exam validates the skills and experience for candidates with up to 2 years of ArcGIS Pro experience
- The Developer Foundation exam is designed for candidates with at least two years of experience interacting with the ArcGIS system and its APIs
Best to you on your Certification Journey!
