CertX: Career-Ready Credentials for High School Students
Where virtual learning meets real-world certifications.
What is CertX?
NDCDE’s CertX tracks give students the chance to earn industry-recognized certifications that stand out to employers and colleges. Many certifications are recognized by the American Council on Education (ACE), which means students may be able to request college credit—saving time and money in the future.
Why Choose CertX?
- Career Advantage – Gain credentials that strengthen job and internship applications.
- College Credit Potential – Certifications marked as ACE-eligible may qualify for college credit.
- North Dakota Discounts – ND students save $50 on at least two courses in every track (discounted courses are designated in our store)
- Certification Reimbursement – Take your certification exam, and NDCDE will reimburse one exam per completed track with proof of completion.
Available Tracks
Business & Innovation
Finance, Management, and Entrepreneurship
From balancing books to launching startups, these tracks help students develop leadership, financial, and entrepreneurial skills. Certifications may include:
- QuickBooks Certification
- Microsoft Office Specialist: Excel
- CAPM (Project Management)
- Certiport Entrepreneurship & Small Business (ESB)
- Design for Delight Innovator
Building Trades
Architecture & Construction
For students interested in design or hands-on construction, these tracks offer courses aligned with industry expectations. Certifications may include:
- AutoCAD Certified User
- LEED Green Associate
- OSHA 10-Hour Construction
- NCCER Core: Introductory Craft Skills
How to Receive Certification Exam Reimbursement
- Complete all the required courses in a CertX track.
- NDCDE will notify you that you are now ready to take a certification exam. Exam details will be included in the notice.
- Pay for and take the exam
- Complete the CertX reimbursement request form and upload your results. NDCDE will issue you reimbursement.
How to Earn College Credit
- Pass an ACE-eligible certification exam.
- Follow instructions from the testing provider to access your official results.
- Visit ACE’s website to submit certification results (fees may apply).
- Send the ACE transcript to your college or university for credit consideration. (Final decisions are made by each institution.)
Getting Started
CertX launches in fall 2025. To register, look for the “CertX Tracks and CDE Pathways” tile in the NDCDE Store.
Contact Us & Resources
For more information or support email ndcde.support@k12.nd.us and include CertX in the subject line.
View CertX Flyer.