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The Google Certified Educator program validates your ability to use Google for Education tools in the classroom. This guide covers Level 1 and Level 2, the exams, cost, and how to prepare to become a Google Certified Educator.
What is a Google Certified Educator?
A Google Certified Educator has proven skills in using Google Workspace for Education tools, such as Classroom, Docs, Drive and Meet, to support teaching and learning. There are two levels: Level 1 covers fundamental classroom use, and Level 2 covers advanced integration.
Exam format and cost
As of May 2026, the new Level 1 and Level 2 exams are free of charge. Each exam tests your ability to use Google for Education tools in realistic classroom scenarios, and the certifications are valid for 36 months before you renew.
Level 1 vs Level 2
- Level 1: fundamental use of Classroom, Docs, Drive, Meet and more
- Level 2: advanced features and deeper classroom integration
- Both use scenario based tasks, not just multiple choice
- Level 1 suits most teachers starting out
- Level 2 suits educators who want to go further
How to prepare
- Work through the official Teacher Center training
- Practice hands on in Google Classroom and Workspace
- Focus on real classroom workflows and scenarios
- Take the fundamentals training before Level 1
- Move to the advanced training before Level 2
Who should get it?
- K-12 and higher education teachers
- Instructional coaches and technology leads
- Educators in Google for Education schools
- Anyone teaching with Google Workspace tools
Related Google certifications
Related certifications on our site: all Google certifications. For official details and to take the exam, see the official Google page.
Google Certified Educator FAQ
Is the Google Certified Educator exam free?
Yes. As of May 2026, the new Level 1 and Level 2 exams are free of charge. The certifications are valid for 36 months.
What is the difference between Level 1 and Level 2?
Level 1 covers fundamental classroom use of Google for Education tools, while Level 2 covers advanced features and deeper integration for educators who want to go further.
How do I prepare for the exams?
Use the official Google for Education Teacher Center training, practice hands on in Classroom and Workspace, and focus on realistic classroom scenarios before taking each exam.
The bottom line
The Google Certified Educator program is a free, respected way for teachers to prove their skills with Google for Education tools. Train in the Teacher Center, practice in Classroom, and start with Level 1 before advancing to Level 2.