Intermediate 4 hours English Course CertificateFREE
Our recommendation
Google's free Search Ads certification, taken through Skillshop. It covers running and optimising Google Search campaigns, and is a practical, recognised credential for anyone doing paid search. You study the free material, then pass a short exam — all at no cost.
Good for: Marketers who run or want to run Google Search ad campaigns.
Less suitable if: You never work with paid advertising, or you want a broad marketing overview.
Skills you'll gain
Google AdsSearch advertisingPPCCampaign optimisationKeywordsBidding
Is this course right for you?
A good fit if you…
You run or want to run Google Search ads
You work in marketing
You want a free credential
Consider something else if you…
You never touch paid ads
You want a broad marketing overview
You want a paid formal qualification
Requirements: Some marketing basics help.
Realistic time: About 4 hours of study before the exam.
About this course
The Google Ads Search Certification is Google's own credential for paid search advertising expertise — covering campaign setup, bidding strategies, keyword planning, ad copy writing, Quality Score optimization, and measurement with Google Analytics. It's delivered through Google Skillshop and free to earn with any Google account, renewing annually.
What you'll learn
Build and structure Google Search campaigns from scratch
Apply Smart Bidding strategies for different campaign goals
Conduct keyword research and match-type planning
Write compelling ad copy and apply ad extensions
Measure and optimize campaign performance using Google Ads reporting
This course includes
4h
On-demand video
Yes
Certificate
Yes
Mobile access
English
Language
What it costs
Completely free on Google Skillshop — study material and exam. There are no fees, and you can retake the day after if you do not pass.
Comparison · LBS
Compare alternatives for Google Ads Search Certification
Same topic, different options. We surface the trade-offs others hide so you can pick the course that actually fits your time, budget, and goals.
The certification is free from Google via Skillshop, valid for 12 months, then you retake to stay certified. It is a recognised, practical credential for paid-search roles.
Instructor
I
Instructor
Google instructor
Developed and maintained by Google's Ads product and education teams — the authoritative source on Google Ads best practices.
About this provider
GO
Google
Free, self-paced courses and certificates from Google — Career Certificates, Digital Garage, and Machine Learning Crash Course.