Canonical Academy

Canonical Academy is an online professional certification and training platform developed by Canonical, the developer and publisher of the Ubuntu distribution of the Linux operating system. According to Canonical, the academy was launched to validate technical proficiency in Linux and Ubuntu administration through a system of practical, hands-on assessments. ^{[1] [2]}

Methodology and structure

According to Canonical, the academy emphasizes validation of practical skills, rather than theoretical knowledge. ^{[1] [3]} The platform's core approach uses a cloud-based testing environment designed to simulate realistic workplace scenarios, with the goal of ensuring professionals are prepared for on-the-job challenges. ^{[1] [4]}

The training framework features:

• Self-paced learning: users can study and prepare for examinations without fixed course deadlines. ^[1]
• Modular assessment: the certification process is structured into individual, timed exams. Successful completion of an individual exam earns a digital badge, which indicates the specific Ubuntu Long-Term Support (LTS) version to which the exam aligns (for example, Ubuntu 24.04 LTS). ^{[1] [2]}
• Full qualification: completing all required modular exams within a specific track leads to a comprehensive qualification being issued, such as the full SysAdmin certification. ^{[1] [4]}

System Administrator track

The platform's initial offering is the System Administrator track, which is designed for individuals seeking to validate their expertise in Linux and Ubuntu system management. ^{[1] [4]} As of October 2025, this track currently features examinations aligned with the Ubuntu 24.04 LTS release. It is composed of four examinations: ^{[2] [3]}

• Using Linux Terminal 2024 (cost: $100)
• Using Ubuntu Desktop 2024 (currently in Beta testing)
• Using Ubuntu Server 2024 (currently in Beta testing)
• Managing Complex Systems 2024 (currently under development)

Development and community

Canonical has established a schedule for future content updates, with course revisions planned to align with the release of Ubuntu 26.04 LTS (anticipated in September 2026). ^{[2] [3]} The company actively solicits participation from the community, inviting professionals to contribute to building out the platform as beta testers and subject-matter experts. ^{[1] [4]}

References

1. Ltd, Canonical. "Introducing Canonical Academy". Canonical. Retrieved 2025-10-26.
2. "Show Off Your Linux Skills With an Official Ubuntu Exam". www.howtogeek.com. 2025-10-23. Retrieved 2025-10-26.
3. "Finally, You Can Now be Ubuntu Certified Linux User". It's FOSS News. 2025-10-25. Retrieved 2025-10-26.
4. Ltd, Canonical. "Canonical Academy". Canonical. Retrieved 2025-10-26.