LinkedIn Learning, formerly Lynda.com, is a popular platform for professional development. While a subscription unlocks its vast library, many learners wonder: Are There Any Free Linkedin Learning Courses? The answer is a resounding yes! This article unveils hundreds of hours of free LinkedIn Learning courses with certificates, providing a valuable resource for skill enhancement without the cost.
Diving into LinkedIn Learning’s Free Offerings
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Microsoft, LinkedIn’s parent company, generously opened access to 14 learning paths on the platform. This initiative sparked a surge in learners seeking free online education. Since then, LinkedIn Learning has continued to offer a selection of free courses and learning paths, though the availability fluctuates.
A thorough examination of LinkedIn Learning’s extensive catalog, encompassing nearly 10,000 courses and over 600 learning paths, reveals a treasure trove of free learning opportunities. While the number of free courses has varied over time, currently, there are over 460 hours of free courses with certificates available. This includes 13 learning paths sponsored by Microsoft and 4 additional free learning paths, complemented by over 400 individual courses.
Accessing Free LinkedIn Learning Courses
Accessing these free courses is straightforward. While LinkedIn Learning typically prompts users for a free trial and subscription, you can bypass this step. After signing up or logging in, simply navigate directly to the desired free course link. You should gain immediate access to the course content without providing payment information.
It’s important to note that the availability of free courses can change. Courses may transition between free and paid status periodically. Therefore, it’s recommended to take advantage of free courses while they are available.
Earning Your Free LinkedIn Learning Certificate
Completing a free LinkedIn Learning course and earning a certificate involves a few key steps:
- Watch all course videos: Ensure you view all the video content within the course.
- Pass quizzes and assessments: Successfully complete any quizzes or assessments embedded within the course modules. Some courses might require a final exam.
- Download your certificate: Upon completion, navigate to the “Related to this course” section, usually found below the video player on the desktop version. Click “Show all” to access available certificates. Click “Download” to obtain your LinkedIn Learning certificate. Certain courses also offer Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits.
For learning paths, you must complete all constituent courses to earn the overall learning path certificate.
Finding More Free Learning Opportunities
Beyond the currently available free LinkedIn Learning resources, there are numerous avenues for expanding your knowledge and skills without cost. Explore online course catalogs, such as Class Central, which offer a vast array of courses across various disciplines. Specialized collections and resources focusing on free certificates are also valuable tools in your quest for free learning.
Conclusion: Unlock Your Potential with Free LinkedIn Learning
The question “are there any free LinkedIn Learning courses?” is answered with a resounding yes. With hundreds of hours of free, certificate-granting courses and learning paths readily accessible, LinkedIn Learning provides a pathway to professional development without financial barriers. Embrace these opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career.
