LEARN & EARN - TOP FREE ONLINE CERTIFICATION COURSES

Build your profile while you study – for free! Invest just 1–2 hours a week, to upskill and build your profile and help you grow — alongside your academic journey. Here’s a curated list of top free and affordable online courses, offered by reputed global platforms. These are self-paced, beginner-friendly, and perfect for students.

Finance courses - (Best for commerce students & future professionals)

1. Tally ERP 9 / Tally Prime with GST- Platform -Tally & Coursera

Learn: Accounting, GST, payroll, inventory, reports

2. Excel for Beginners to Advanced – Platform - Microsoft Learn / Coursera

Learn: Formulas, pivot tables, dashboards useful for every career

3. Financial Markets (Yale University) –Platform - Coursera

Learn: Stocks, bonds, market risks & behavioral finance 

Skill Development & Soft Skills- (Essential for interviews, group discussions & workplace success)

4. Effective Communication Skills – Platform - Alison

Learn: Communication models, barriers, professional writing

5. Critical Thinking & Problem Solving – Platform - edX (by RIT) or Future Learn

Learn: Decision-making, creative thinking & logical reasoning 

Digital & Tech Skill courses – (much in Demand for social media marketing)

6. Google Digital Marketing Course 

Learn: SEO, SEM, email marketing, analytics

7. Introduction to Data Analytics – Platform - IBM via Coursera

Learn: Data types, tools like Excel, SQL, Python (intro)

8. Basics of Cybersecurity - Platform: Cisco Networking Academy, Cybrary, TryHackMe

      Learn: Cyber hygiene, attacks, prevention

Creative & Productivity Skills – (Perfect for creators, freelancers & content lovers)

9. Canva Design School - Platform: Canva

Learn: Graphic design, branding, resumes, social media posts

10. LinkedIn Learning (Free with trials)     

Learn: Communication, Resume Building, Excel, Business Skills

11. Skillshare - Specializes in creative skills, offering courses in design, writing, video editing, and more. 

12. Khan Academy - A free platform with a wide array of educational resources for both students and lifelong learners on math, finance, coding & more.

🔍 How to Choose the Right Course:

• Audit Mode (Free) – Learn all content at no cost; pay only if you want a certificate.

• Financial Aid Available – Platforms like Coursera and edX offer aid if you apply.

• Explore & Review – Try different instructors, check reviews before committing.

Top Picks:

• Coursera/edX – University-backed, professional courses

• Skillshare – Best for creatives

• LinkedIn Learning – Focuses on job-ready skills

• Udemy – Wide range, often discounted

Remember: Upskilling isn’t just about degrees — it’s about staying relevant, confident, and ready. Whether you're preparing for the next academic year, competitive exams, or your first job — learning now will always pay off later for sure.

“One course can change your career path. Start today!” Save this guide. Share with friends. 

📧 For queries or feedback: chheda.dipti@gmail.com