SAP Certification practical exams - FAQ

1

Why is SAP Certification moving to practical exams? 

The world of work is changing. AI and automation are embedded in business processes, and organizations need professionals who can apply knowledge, solve problems, and deliver measurable outcomes fast. SAP is redefining certification for the AI era with performance-based, practical, open-book assessments that mirror real work. Instead of theoretical tests, professionals will demonstrate their ability to perform real-world tasks – such as configuring real SAP systems, building processes, coding, or positioning SAP solutions – leveraging AI support and other helpful resources just as they would on an SAP project.
2

How do the practical certification exams work? 

There are two types of practical exams:

  1. System-based: Learners complete practical tasks in timeboxed simulations using SAP systems.
  2. Scenario-based: Learners engage in a timeboxed roleplay with an AI avatar to pitch SAP solutions, advise on architecture, and perform other simulations. Learners who do not wish to leverage the AI-based tool can upload a video for manual review.

Scenario-based assessments are available in multiple languages. System-based assessments are available in English, with plans for availability in other languages in the future. Please refer to the individual assessments for details.

Exams will be open book: Learners can leverage all kinds of resources to support their completion of the tasks and questions at hand. Recommended sites are SAP Help Portal, SAP Learning, SAP Community, and SAP Joule for Consultants (where applicable). Learners need to reach a predefined score in the given timeframe to become certified. This ensures certified professionals can deliver from day one, efficiently and with confidence and proven expertise.

3

How are practical exams scored? 

Results are based on the successful completion of defined tasks and system outputs, reviewed automatically or via evaluation scripts. In AI-supported scenarios, an AI model may assist in assessing the accuracy, completeness, and efficiency of responses. For video uploads, SAP experts will score the video within 10 business day.

4

What roles are covered and when will the practical certification exams be available? 

Starting in November 2025, SAP is expanding its certification portfolio with practical exams for

New certifications are also available for SAP BTP System Administrators and RISE for SAP Methodology (for SAP partners). Preparation materials for each certification include comprehensive learning journeys and practical exercises.
F urther rollout is planned for January 2026 and onwards.

5

Will all SAP Certifications become practical and performance-based? 

Yes. SAP’s vision is for all certifications to evolve into performance-based formats that reflect real work, with a phased rollout over the coming months.
6

How do practical exams benefit SAP customers? 

Customers gain access to certified professionals who are job-ready from day one. By validating applied skills, the performance-based certification approach helps reduce project risks, accelerate deployments, and ensure faster time-to-value across SAP implementations