The Ultimate Guide to the New Practice-Based SAP Certifications
Everything you need to know about SAP's shift to practice-based exams: formats, preparation strategies, rollout timeline, and community feedback.
Why SAP Is Switching to Practice-Based Exams
SAP has retired the classic multiple-choice format and is rolling out practice-based certifications starting in 2025. The goal: test real-world capability, not rote memorization. Candidates must demonstrate that they can:
- Map processes correctly in a live SAP system
- Execute configurations and customizations hands-on
- Develop solutions for realistic business scenarios
Exams now mirror the reality of day-to-day project work — a win for both employers and candidates.
Old vs. New Exams: A Comparison
| Feature | Old Multiple-Choice Exam | New Practice-Based Exam |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Multiple choice, some drag & drop | System-based & scenario-based |
| Focus | Memorizing knowledge | Hands-on execution, problem-solving |
| Scoring | Automated, point-based | Outcome-oriented, partly automated, partly manual |
| Duration | Usually 60–90 minutes | 90–180 minutes depending on scenario |
| Preparation | Study materials, books, dumps | Training systems, practical exercises, simulations |
Types of Practice-Based Exams
System-Based Exams
- Candidates work directly in simulated SAP environments.
- Tasks include configuration, process adjustments, and report creation.
- Evaluated on correct execution within the system.
Scenario-Based Exams
- Candidates solve real-world business scenarios.
- Often assessed via AI avatar or video recording.
- Evaluated on solution approach, decision-making, and implementation concept.
Technical Challenges
- Infrastructure: Stable, globally available system environments must be provisioned.
- Scoring: Scenario-based exams require complex evaluation logic.
- Hardware/Software: Candidates need capable hardware and a reliable internet connection.
- Language support: Initially available in English only; additional languages are planned.
Rollout Timeline and New Certifications
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Rollout begins November 2025.
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First practice-based exams available for:
- SAP BTP Administrator
- SAP Build Developer
- Solution Architect – SAP BTP
- SAP Business Data Cloud Associate
- RISE with SAP Methodology & Experience Associate
- SAP Generative AI Developer Associate
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All certifications are scheduled to transition by Q2 2026.
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Existing certificates remain valid; the changes primarily affect new certifications.
Community Feedback and Criticism
- Positive: Greater practical relevance, genuine competency assessment.
- Critical: Higher effort, technical hurdles, limited language support.
- Discussions on SAP Community, Reddit, and LinkedIn cover topics such as "Stay Certified," exam stress, and technical issues — with mixed reactions.
Costs, Recertification, and Administration
- Exam fees may be slightly higher due to more intensive infrastructure and support requirements.
- Recertification remains relevant: "Stay Certified" assessments will be updated to align with the new formats.
- Registration: Online via SAP Learning Hub; system-based exams may have specific time-slot availability.
Preparation: How to Succeed in the New Exams
- Practice hands-on: Use sandbox or training systems regularly.
- Train scenario thinking: Analyze business problems and plan solutions step by step.
- Use available resources: SAP Help Portal, Learning Hub, official guides, and AI tools.
- Manage your time: Exams are time-boxed — simulate exam conditions during preparation.
- Build soft skills: Practice consulting mindset, process thinking, and structured problem-solving.
- Leverage community: Join live sessions, forums, and blogs for firsthand experience and tips.
Tips for Trainers and Instructors
- Build hands-on practice scenarios instead of relying on pure theory.
- Run timed mock exams under realistic conditions.
- Use the opportunity to actively develop soft skills such as decision-making and problem-solving.
- Document results to make learning progress measurable.
Sample Practice Tasks (Without Solutions)
- Configure a posting process in SAP S/4HANA Finance.
- Integrate a cloud solution into SAP BTP.
- Design a data flow in SAP Business Data Cloud.
Conclusion
The shift to practice-based exams marks a major step toward certifications that reflect reality. They test not just knowledge but genuine skills, problem-solving ability, and consulting quality. Candidates who prepare thoroughly will benefit from more meaningful credentials — for their own careers and for the employers who hire them.
For trainers and candidates alike, this means: more practice, more preparation, more real-world competency — and ultimately, a certification that truly carries weight.