I've been given a training subscription for RHEL at my organization, and I already hold a Linux+ certification. I've spent a lot of time using Linux, so I'm feeling pretty confident in my skills. However, I'm not entirely sure about the prerequisites for the RHCSA exam. Do I really need to take the courses? That 5-day accelerated course seems like quite a commitment, and I'm looking for advice from anyone who's successfully navigated this path before. I'm motivated to earn this certification to boost my resume due to some changing circumstances at my job.
4 Answers
Skipping the course can sometimes work, but be aware that those exams are nuanced and require a lot of hands-on practice. It's a commitment of four hours per attempt, so if you haven't prepared thoroughly, it could lead to more frustration than success.
Definitely check if the training offers any practice exams. Those can be really beneficial since they give you a clear idea of what topics you might need to focus on before the actual test. Also, don't underestimate RedHat exams; they're known to be quite challenging! Just be prepared that they typically aren’t just multiple choice—they're practical assessments, which demand a solid understanding of the material.
You can skip the formal courses if you feel confident about your skills. However, it might be wise to consider them since they help clarify what you’ll be tested on and can refresh your knowledge on areas you might not be using regularly. I took the course while also watching Sander van Vugt's video series in the same week, which really helped me out. I passed the exam in about 45 minutes! Just keep in mind that this kind of preparation is more of a learning process than just cramming for a test, especially since the exam isn't cheap.
Taking the course isn't mandatory, but most folks encourage you to do so. The RedHat exams are quite tough, and attempting them without enough practice could be risky. Keep in mind, your management can monitor your training participation, so it might be worth it to take some courses instead of just relying on exam vouchers.
True, but if you're not personally funding it, what's the harm in just trying it? I mean, worst-case scenario, you learn something, right? But honestly, I have the documented experience plus a Linux+ cert. I'm leaning more towards focusing on the RHCSE instead.