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If you’re interested in proofreading, you probably want to know how to get a proofreading certificate. As a trained proofreader with a certificate, I can show you how to obtain one that’s worth your time and money.
You can get a certificate by completing a reputable proofreading course that gives you one (or the opportunity to earn one). Having a certificate shows potential clients that you take your job seriously because you’ve received formal training.
Let’s discover the best options for getting a proofreading certificate and determine whether it’s really necessary.
How to Get a Proofreading Certificate
If you’re serious about proofreading and want to make decent money doing it, I highly recommend taking a proofreading course. Many proofreaders have received formal training, so getting trained means you can compete with them and command reasonable prices from the get-go.
I penned a post explaining why proofreading courses offer a good ROI, in case you have any doubts.
Luckily, all the best proofreading classes give you a certificate of completion or the chance to earn one by passing the final exam.
Soon, we’ll look at these courses.
First, let’s clarify exactly what we mean by “getting a proofreading certificate.”
What Is a Proofreading Certificate?
A proofreading certificate is a digital certificate you receive or earn from completing a proofreading course.
Having a certificate from a reputable program will inspire trust in your clients because it represents the skills you’ve acquired through formal training.
It’s important to note that having a proofreading certificate does not make you a certified proofreader.
Having a proofreading certificate means you’re a trained proofreader.
To become a certified proofreader, you need to get a professional certification.
Currently, the US doesn’t offer a widely recognized, industry-standard professional certification in proofreading. The only way to get one is through Editors Canada—a well-respected editorial organization that was established in 1979.
I wrote an article about proofreading certification if you’d like more information.
Now, let’s see if you need a certificate to be a proofreader.
Do You Need a Certificate to Proofread?
You don’t have to have a certificate to proofread, but it’s ideal.
To be competitive in the market, you need solid proofreading skills. You can acquire these skills from a proofreading course that awards you a certificate or gives you the chance to earn one.
Having a certificate is the fastest way to convey to clients that you’ve been trained for the job.
You can display the document on your profile on freelancing platforms and on your business website.
Here’s my certificate from Proofread Anywhere.
What I like about this certificate is that it’s tamper-proof and can be easily verified by scanning the QR (quick response) code. That way, potential clients know it’s legitimate.
Finally, a certificate is a great way to have a leg up in the proofreading field!
Can I Get a Proofreading Certificate from a Free Course?
You can get a proofreading certificate from a free course.
However, you won’t learn nearly enough in a free class to adequately prepare you for proofreading work.
But taking a free course is an option if you’d simply like to see if proofreading is a good fit for you.
If you get a certificate from a free course, you may be able to attract a few clients. But you probably won’t be able to keep them.
If you start proofreading before you’re ready, you risk tarnishing your reputation.
By taking a comprehensive course, you’ll gain the confidence and competence you need to succeed. And as mentioned, you’ll be able to compete with proofreaders who have received sufficient training.
Let’s look at a few courses that will properly prepare you to proofread! 😊
Courses that Offer Worthwhile Proofreading Certificates
Here are a few excellent training options.
Cost Comparison of Proofreading Courses
| Course | Cost | Exact Price |
|---|---|---|
| General Proofreading: Theory and Practice™ (Proofread Anywhere) |
$$ | $697 for Ignite version, $797 for Ignite Plus version* |
| Becoming a Proofreader (Knowadays) |
$ | $499 |
| Essential Proofreading: Editorial Skills One (PTC) |
$ | £290 (roughly $390) + VAT |
| It’s a series of three classes: Proofreading 1: Introduction Proofreading 2: Headway Proofreading 3: Progress (CIEP) |
$$$$ | £929 for nonmembers (roughly $1,260) + VAT; discounts available for CIEP members |
* You need to purchase the Ignite Plus version of the course to have the chance to earn a certificate.
Key Points about the Proofreading Courses
Let’s check out some of the details about these classes.
Proofread Anywhere
- solid training in grammar, mechanics, and style guides
- offers business and marketing instruction
- certificate is available for Ignite Plus if you pass the exam
Knowadays
- teaches how to proofread typeset documents
- offers support from tutors
- certificate awarded upon completion
The Publishing Training Centre
- well-established training provider in the publishing industry
- support from a personal tutor
- certificate awarded with pass, merit, or distinction
The Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading
- training by a prestigious editorial organization
- three courses offer increasingly advanced training
- certificates awarded throughout the series
I wrote a thorough post comparing the pros and cons of these courses if you’re interested in knowing more.
Can You Really Make Money Proofreading?
You can earn money proofreading; it’s a legitimate job. Some people even make it their career.
Proofreaders are listed on the US Bureau of Labor Statistics website as “proofreaders and copy markers” under the “office and administrative support occupations” category.
The people who make the most money proofreading are those who receive adequate training, gain extensive experience, operate in a profitable niche, and market themselves well.
I hope this article helped you understand how to get a proofreading certificate and choose a worthwhile training program.
And if you pick the proofreading path, I published an in-depth post about becoming a proofreader without any experience. Feel free to check it out!
Best wishes to you!
“Change the way you look at things and the things you look at change.”
– Wayne W. Dyer
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