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Acquia Certification Program

Validate and promote your Drupal skills. Hire with confidence. Stand out from the crowd. Acquia Certification exams are administered at Kryterion Testing Centers in more than 750 locations across the globe. Exams are also available as online proctored tests. Register online for your exam appointment.

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Acquia Platform Certification is the premier professional Drupal certification program. Whether you're a developer, a Drupal agency, or an Acquia customer, our certifications are the trusted benchmark for validating and promoting your expertise, reducing hiring risk, up-skilling teams, and helping ensure successful project delivery.

  • Digital agencies and Acquia partners use Acquia Certification to reduce risk by validating skills of prospective hires. Our certification program ensures your developers all meet a standard bar of skills across knowledge domains; fielding a certified team differentiates you in the marketplace and helps you win business. Some Acquia delivery partners are required to certify team members to achieve Qualified Delivery Team status.

  • Acquia customers with in-house teams use certification to keep current with the latest in Drupal knowledge and Acquia Platform skills. Certifying your team helps you get the most out of your Acquia investment.

  • Individual Drupalists use Acquia Certification to establish their competence in a competitive marketplace, and stand out to prospective employers.

Acquia & Drupal Certification Tracks and Exams

Acquia Certification has three distinct tracks catering to knowledge and skills demands of the industry and Drupal learning paths.

Drupal 8 Certification Track

Acquia Certified Site Builder – D8

Exam name: Acquia Certified Site Builder – Drupal 8
Exam Duration: 75 minutes
Exam Price: $155
Exam length: 50 questions
Pass/Fail mark: 68%
(subject to change)

Introduction

The Acquia Certified Drupal 8 Site Builder is a credential intended for professionals who build Drupal sites using core and contributed modules. This exam is designed to validate skills and knowledge of a Drupal Site Builder. This test focuses on knowledge of Drupal 8 and topic areas including Drupal features, content and user management, content modeling, site display, community and contributed projects, module and theme management, security and performance.

This exam validates a candidate’s ability to:

Plan, build, and manage Drupal 8-based solutions.

Understand the core Drupal practices for site building.

Develop and maintain applications using Drupal site building tools.

Install and configure new Drupal modules and themes.

The basic knowledge and skills required at this level should include all of the following areas and objective components.

Drupal

Professional experience using Drupal

Setup and configure Drupal sites

Model content architectures

Manage Drupal content and users

Install and configure contributed Drupal modules and themes

Web and IT Knowledge

Experience in developing Drupal websites and web applications

HTML

Basic CSS, JavaScript/jQuery knowledge

Basic PHP knowledge

These training courses or other equivalent methodologies will assist in exam preparation:

Drupal documentation http://drupal.org/documentation

Acquia training courses (http://training.acquia.com/track/drupal-8)

Domains

Note: This exam blueprint includes topics /domains and test objectives to help guide the test taker. They should not be construed as a comprehensive listing of all of the content of this examination.

The table below lists the domains measured by this examination and the extent to which they are represented.

Domain Number of Questions
1.0 Understanding Drupal 3
2.0 Working with a Drupal site 10
3.0 Content modeling 12
4.0 Site display 6
5.0 Site configuration 7
6.0 Community and contributed projects 4
7.0 Module and theme management 4
8.0 Security and performance 4
TOTAL 50

Note: This exam blueprint includes topics /domains and test objectives to help guide the test taker. They should not be construed as a comprehensive listing of all of the content of this examination.

Test Format:

Test item formats used in this examination are:

Multiple-choice: Examinee selects one option that best answers the question or completes a statement.

Multiple-response: Examinee selects more than one option that best answers the question or completes a statement.

Content

1.0: Understanding Drupal

1.1. Demonstrate the ability to explain the distinct and differentiating features of Drupal.
1.2. Demonstrate the understanding of Drupal jargon and terminology.

2.0: Working with a Drupal site.

2.1 Given a scenario, determine how administration tools are used for site management.
2.2 Given a scenario, demonstrate ability to configure user accounts.
2.3 Given a scenario of a completed content item, identify which elements are taxonomy terms, image fields or text fields.
2.4 Given an example of a page layout, determine what is content versus a block.
2.5 Demonstrate an ability to troubleshoot problems related to content, configuration and maintenance.

3.0: Content modeling

3.1 Demonstrate ability to model content using content types and vocabularies.
3.2 Demonstrate ability to configure and manage comment types and comments.
3.3 Demonstrate ability to configure and manage block types and blocks.
3.4 Demonstrate ability to configure and manage contact forms.
3.5 Demonstrate ability to configure and use multilingual content and interface.
3.6 Demonstrate ability to configure and manage menus, menu items and menu blocks.

4.0: Site display

4.1 Demonstrate the ability to control the display of content across various regions of the site using the block system.
4.2 Demonstrate the ability to provide different presentations of content entities (like nodes, comments, user profiles, terms, etc.) for editing or viewing.
4.3 Demonstrate the ability to to create, manage and display lists of content using Drupal views.

5.0: Site configuration

5.1 Demonstrate the ability to use the various options related to site configuration like account settings, content authoring, development, search, site and system settings, media.
5.2 Demonstrate the ability to use the configuration and synchronization options to import, export, compare configuration across environments.

6.0: Community and contributed projects

6.1 Given a scenario, identify when a contributed module would be needed.
6.2 Given example project data, evaluate the health of projects.
6.3 Identify ways of community participation.
6.4 Demonstrate knowledge of how to report issues against either core or contributed modules.

7.0: Module and theme management

7.1 Demonstrate the ability to add, update, and remove contributed modules.
7.2 Demonstrate the ability to add, update, and remove contributed themes.

8.0: Security and performance

8.1 Identify security issues resulting from site configuration.
8.2 Identify performance issues resulting from site configuration

Acquia Certified Developer – D8

Exam name: Acquia Certified Developer - Drupal 8
Exam Duration: 90 minutes
Exam Price: $250
Exam length: 60 questions
Pass/Fail mark: 65%
(subject to change)

Introduction

The purpose of Acquia Certified Developer - D8 exam is to validate skills and knowledge of a Drupal Developer in the areas of Fundamental web concepts, Site Building, Front end development (theming), and Back end development (coding). This exam is based on Drupal 8 platform.

This exam validates a candidate’s ability to:

Design, develop and deploy Drupal 8 based solutions

Understand the core Drupal 8 basic architecture best practices for front and back end development

Develop and maintain applications using Drupal 8 front and back end development

Develop and implement new Drupal 8 modules and themes

Customize and extend existing modules and themes

The basic knowledge and skills required at this level should include all of the following areas and objective components.

Professional experience using Drupal technology

Setup and configure Drupal sites

Develop and implement new Drupal modules

Develop new or customize existing themes: knowledge of existing themes, HTML, CSS, JavaScript/JQuery

Customize and extend existing modules: knowledge of existing modules, PHP

These training courses or other equivalent methodologies will assist in exam preparation:

Drupal documentation http://drupal.org/documentation

Acquia training courses: http://acquiacademy.com

Domains

Note: This exam blueprint includes topics /domains and test objectives to help guide the test taker. They should not be construed as a comprehensive listing of all of the content of this examination.

Domain % of Examination
1.0 Fundamental web development concepts 10%
2.0 Site building 30%
3.0 Front-end development (theming) 25%
4.0 Back-end development (coding) 35%
TOTAL 100%

Test Format:

Test item formats used in this examination are:

  • Multiple-choice: Examinee selects one option that best answers the question or completes a statement.

  • Multiple-response: Examinee selects more than one option that best answers the question or completes a statement.

Content

Domain 1.0: Fundamental Web Development Concepts

1.1. Demonstrate knowledge of HTML and CSS.
1.2. Identify JavaScript and jQuery programing concepts.
1.3. Demonstrate the use of Git for version control

Domain 2.0: Site Building

2.1 Demonstrate ability to create and configure content types with appropriate fields and field settings for building basic data structures.
2.2 Demonstrate ability to configure display modes for building custom form and view modes for core entities.
2.3 Demonstrate ability to create and use taxonomy vocabularies and terms for classification and organization of content.
2.4 Demonstrate ability to configure block types, manage blocks library and configure block layouts.
2.5 Demonstrate ability to build main and alternative navigation systems by using menus.
2.6 Demonstrate ability to create and configure views for building content list pages, blocks and feeds.
2.7 Demonstrate ability to use configuration management capabilities for exporting site configurations.
2.8 Demonstrate ability to build multilingual websites using core multilingual capabilities.
2.9 Demonstrate ability to build RESTful web application using core web services capabilities.

Domain 3.0: Front-end development (theming)

3.1 Given a scenario, demonstrate ability to create a custom theme or sub theme.
3.2 Demonstrate knowledge of theming concepts.
3.3 Demonstrate ability to use Twig syntax.
3.4 Demonstrate ability to build or override Twig templates for defining layout content.
3.5 Demonstrate ability to write template pre-process functions for overriding custom output.

Domain 4.0: Back-end development (coding)

4.1 Demonstrate ability to write code using core and object-oriented PHP.
4.2 Demonstrate ability to develop custom modules using Drupal API for extending Drupal functionality.
4.3 Demonstrate ability to store and retrieve data using code.
4.4 Demonstrate ability to work with other essential APIs.
4.5 Demonstrate ability to write code using Drupal coding standards.
4.6 Demonstrate ability to analyze and resolve site performance issues arising from site configuration or custom code.
4.7 Demonstrate ability to analyze and resolve security issues arising from site configuration or custom code.

Acquia Certified Front End Specialist – D8

Exam Name: Acquia Certified Front End Specialist – Drupal 8
Exam Duration: 90 minutes
Exam Price: $300
Exam length: 60 questions
Pass/Fail mark: 68%
(subject to change)

Introduction

The purpose of Acquia Certified Front End Specialist exam is to validate skills and knowledge of a Drupal Developer in the area of Front end Development (Theming). This exam is based on Drupal 8 platform.

This exam validates a candidate’s ability to:

Design, develop and deploy Drupal 8 based solutions focusing on the front end.

Understand the core Drupal 8 basic architecture best practices for site building and theme development

Develop and implement new Drupal 8 themes

Customize and extend existing themes

The basic knowledge and skills required at this level should include all of the following areas and objective components.

Professional experience using Drupal technology

Setup and configure Drupal sites

Develop new or customize existing themes: knowledge of existing themes, HTML, CSS, JavaScript/JQuery

These training courses or other equivalent methodologies will assist in exam preparation:

Drupal Documentation http://drupal.org/documentation

Acquia Training courses: http://acquiacademy.com

Domains

Note: This exam blueprint includes topics /domains and test objectives to help guide the test taker. They should not be construed as a comprehensive listing of all of the content of this examination.

The table below lists the domains measured by this examination and the extent to which they are represented.

Domain Number of Questions
1.0 Fundamental web development concepts 25%
2.0 Theming concepts 25%
3.0 Templates and pre-process functions 25%
4.0 Layout configuration 15%
5.0 Performance 5%
6.0 Security 5%
TOTAL 100%

Note: This exam blueprint includes topics /domains and test objectives to help guide the test taker. They should not be construed as a comprehensive listing of all of the content of this examination.

Test Format:

Test item formats used in this examination are:

Multiple-choice: Examinee selects one option that best answers the question or completes a statement.

Multiple-response: Examinee selects more than one option that best answers the question or completes a statement.

Content

1.0: Fundamental web development concepts

1.1 Demonstrate knowledge of HTML and CSS.
1.2 Identify PHP programing concepts.
1.3 Identify JavaScript and jQuery programing concepts.
1.4 Demonstrate knowledge of responsive design concepts.

2.0: Theming concepts

2.1 Demonstrate ability to define and use custom regions in a theme.
2.2 Demonstrate ability to work with theme configuration.
2.3 Demonstrate knowledge of working with stylesheets.
2.4 Demonstrate knowledge of working with JavaScript in a theme.
2.5 Demonstrate knowledge of working with Breakpoints in a theme.
2.6 Demonstrate ability to build a sub-theme from a base theme.

3.0: Templates and pre-process functions

3.1 Demonstrate ability to use Twig syntax.
3.2 Demonstrate ability to build and customize core templates for managing markup.
3.3 Demonstrate ability to work with template suggestions.
3.4 Demonstrate ability to write template pre-process functions for overriding custom output.
3.5 Demonstrate ability to use form alter and template suggestions alter.

4.0: Layout configuration

4.1 Demonstrate ability to create and configure blocks for building layouts.
4.2 Demonstrate ability to create and configure views for building content list pages, blocks and feeds.
4.3 Demonstrate ability to configure and use responsive image module.

5.0: Performance

5.1 Demonstrate ability to analyze and resolve site performance issues arising from site configuration.
5.2 Demonstrate ability to analyze and resolve site performance issues arising from custom theme.

6.0: Security

6.1 Demonstrate ability to analyze and resolve security issues arising from site configuration.
6.2 Demonstrate ability to analyze and resolve security issues arising from site custom theme.

Acquia Certified Back End Specialist – D8

Exam name: Acquia Certified Back End Specialist - Drupal 8
Exam Duration: 90 minutes
Exam Price: $350
Exam length: 60 questions
Pass/Fail mark: 70%
(subject to change)

Introduction

The Acquia Certified Back End Specialist exam validates skills and knowledge of a Developer in the areas of building and implementing Drupal solutions using code (module development).

This exam validates a candidate’s ability to:

Design, develop and deploy Drupal 8 based solutions

Understand the core Drupal 8 basic architecture best practices for back end development

Develop and maintain applications using Drupal 8 back end development

Develop and implement new Drupal 8 modules

Customize and extend existing modules

The basic knowledge and skills required at this level should include all of the following areas and objective components:

Professional experience using Drupal technology

Setup and configure Drupal sites

Develop and implement new Drupal modules

Customize and extend existing modules: knowledge of existing modules, PHP

These training courses or other equivalent methodologies will assist in exam preparation:

Drupal Documentation http://drupal.org/documentation

Acquia Training courses: http://acquiacademy.com

Domains

Note: This exam blueprint includes topics /domains and test objectives to help guide the test taker. They should not be construed as a comprehensive listing of all of the content of this examination.

Domain Number of questions
1.0 Fundamental web development concepts 10
2.0 Drupal core API 20
3.0 Debug code and troubleshooting 4
4.0 Theme integration 6
5.0 Performance 8
6.0 Security 8
7.0 Leveraging community 4
TOTAL 60

Test Format:

Test item formats used in this examination are:

Multiple-choice: Examinee selects one option that best answers the question or completes a statement.

Multiple-response: Examinee selects more than one option that best answers the question or completes a statement.

Content

Domain 1.0: Fundamental web development concepts

1.1. Demonstrate knowledge of HTML, CSS, JavaScript.
1.2. Demonstrate knowledge of OO PHP programing concepts.
1.3. Demonstrate knowledge of managing dependencies using Composer.
1.4. Demonstrate the use of Git for version control.
1.5. Demonstrate knowledge of automated testing concepts.

Domain 2.0: Drupal core API

2.1 Demonstrate an ability to register paths to define how URL requests are handled in Drupal using routing system and Menu API.
2.2 Demonstrate ability to build, alter, validate and submit forms using Form API.
2.3 Demonstrate ability to interact with the entity system using Entity API.
2.4 Demonstrate ability to use core APIs for building and extending Drupal functionality.

Domain 3.0: Debug code and troubleshooting

3.1 Demonstrate ability to debug code.
3.2 Demonstrate ability to troubleshoot site problems.

Domain 4.0: Theme integration

4.1 Demonstrate ability to work with Drupal's theme system using Render API and JavaScript APIs.
4.2 Demonstrate ability to work with Twig templates and syntax.

Domain 5.0: Performance

5.1 Demonstrate ability to analyze and resolve site performance issues arising from site configuration.
5.2 Demonstrate ability to analyze and resolve site performance issues arising from custom code.
5.3 Implement Drupal caching strategies using Cache API.

Domain 6.0: Security

6.1 Demonstrate ability to analyze and resolve security issues arising from site configuration.
6.2 Demonstrate ability to analyze and resolve security issues arising from site custom code.
6.3 Demonstrate the ability to implement Drupal core security mechanisms.

Domain 7.0: Leveraging community

7.1 Demonstrate the ability to contribute to the community.
7.2 Demonstrate ability to write code using Drupal coding standards.

Drupal 7 Certification Track

Acquia Certified Site Builder – D7

Exam name: Acquia Certified Site Builder – Drupal 7
Exam Duration: 75 minutes
Exam Price: $155
Exam length: 50 questions
Pass/Fail mark: 68%
(subject to change)

Introduction

The Acquia Certified Site Builder is a credential intended for professionals who build Drupal sites using core and contributed modules. This exam is designed to validate skills and knowledge of a Drupal Site Builder. This test focuses on knowledge of Drupal 7 and topic areas including Drupal features, Content and User Management,Content Modeling, Site Display, Community and Contributed Projects, Module and Theme Management, Security and Performance.

This exam validates a candidate’s ability to:

Plan, build, and manage Drupal 7-based solutions

Understand the core Drupal practices for site building

Develop and maintain applications using Drupal site building tools

Install and configure new Drupal modules and themes

Drupal

Professional experience using Drupal

Set-up and configure Drupal sites

Model content architectures

Manage Drupal content and users

Install and configure contributed Drupal modules and themes

Web and IT Knowledge

Experience in developing Drupal websites and web applications

HTML

Basic CSS, JavaScript/jQuery knowledge

Basic PHP knowledge

These training courses or other equivalent methodologies will assist in exam preparation:

Drupal Documentation http://drupal.org/documentation

Acquia Training courses

Drupal 7 Site Building

Drupal 7 Module Development (optional)

Drupal 7 Layout and Theming (optional)

Note: Note: This exam blueprint includes topics /domains and test objectives to help guide the test taker. They should not be construed as a comprehensive listing of all of the content of this examination.

The table below lists the domains measured by this examination and the extent to which they are represented. (subject to change)

Section % of Examination
1.0 Drupal features 10%
2.0 Content and user management 18%
3.0 Content modeling 24%
4.0 Site display 20%
5.0 Community and contributed projects 8%
6.0 Model and theme management 8%
7.0 Security and performance 12%
TOTAL 100%

Test Format:

Test item formats used in this examination are:

  • Multiple-choice: Examinee selects one option that best answers the question or completes a statement.

  • Multiple-response: Examinee selects more than one option that best answers the question or completes a statement.

Content

Section 1 Drupal features

1.1 Demonstrate the ability to explain the distinct and differentiating features of Drupal.
1.2 Given a scenario, identify specific Drupal features such as core modules, blocks or core content types used for site building.

Section 2 Content and user management

2.1 Given a scenario, determine how administration tools are used for site management.
2.2 Given a scenario, demonstrate ability to configure user accounts.
2.3 Given a scenario of a completed content item, identify which elements are taxonomy terms, image fields or text fields.
2.4 Given an example of a page layout, determine what is content versus a block.

Section 3 Content modeling

3.1 Given a scenario, determine the need for a custom content type.
3.2 Given a scenario, identify which field types or widgets would be appropriate for a content type design.
3.3 Given a scenario, identify which content type defaults should be set.
3.4 Demonstrate ability to configure both controlled vocabularies and free tagging with taxonomy.
3.5 Demonstrate ability to configure file and image fields, including image resizing options.
3.6 Demonstrate ability to configure text formats appropriately to specific needs.

Section 4 Site display

4.1 Given a scenario, identify the display types created with views.
4.2 Given a scenario, identify the differences between using the menu system, block system or views.
4.3 Given a scenario, identify the appropriate permission configuration options.
4.4 Given a scenario, identify how a path was created.
4.5 Given a scenario, determine how to use blocks to display content within regions.

Section 5 Community and contributed projects

5.1 Given a scenario, identify when a contributed module would be needed.
5.2 Given example project data, evaluate the health of projects.
5.3 Identify ways of community participation.
5.4 Demonstrate knowledge of how to report issues against either core or contributed modules.

Section 6 Module and theme management

6.1 Demonstrate the ability to add, update, and remove contributed modules.
6.2 Demonstrate the ability to add, update, and remove contributed themes.

Section 7 Security and performance

7.1 Identify security issues resulting from site configuration.
7.2 Identify performance issues resulting from site configuration.

Acquia Certified Developer – D7

Exam name: Acquia Certified Developer – Drupal 7
Exam Duration: 90 minutes
Exam Price: $250
Exam length: 60 questions
Pass/Fail mark: 65%
(subject to change)

View Sample question

To prepare for this exam, please check out this eBook: Five Steps to Get Ready for the Acquia Certified Developer Exam

Introduction

The Acquia Certified Developer exam is intended for Acquia customers, partners, and employees who perform a developer role. This exam validates a candidate’s ability to:

Design, develop and deploy Drupal based solutions

Understand the core Drupal basic architecture best practices for front and back end development

Develop and maintain applications using Drupal front and back end development

Develop and implement new Drupal modules and themes

Customize and extend existing modules and themes

The basic knowledge and skills required at this level should include all of the following areas and objective components below.

Drupal

Professional experience using Drupal technology

Set-up and configure Drupal sites

Develop and implement new Drupal modules

Develop new or customize existing themes: knowledge of existing themes, HTML, CSS, JavaScript/JQuery

Customize and extend existing modules: knowledge of existing modules, PHP

Web and IT Knowledge

Experience in developing enterprise Drupal websites and web applications

PHP knowledge

OOP knowledge

HTML, CSS, JavaScript/JQuery

MySQL

Basic Linux server administration skills

Experience with security and performance

Version control systems

These training courses or other equivalent methodologies will assist in exam preparation:

Drupal Documentation http://drupal.org/documentation

Acquia Certified Developer course

Drupal 7 Site Building

Drupal 7 Module Development

Drupal 7 Layout and Theming

Note: This exam blueprint includes topics /domains and test objectives to help guide the test taker. They should not be construed as a comprehensive listing of all of the content of this examination.

The table below lists the domains measured by this examination and the extent to which they are represented. (subject to change)

Domain % of Examination
1.0 Fundamental web concepts 13%
2.0 Site building 27%
3.0 Front-end development (theming) 25%
4.0 Back-end development (coding) 35%
TOTAL 100%

Test Format:

Test item formats used in this examination are:

Multiple-choice: Examinee selects one option that best answers the question or completes a statement.

Multiple-response: Examinee selects more than one option that best answers the question or completes a statement.

Content

Domain 1.0: Fundamental web development concepts

1.1. Demonstrate knowledge of HTML and CSS.
1.2. Identify PHP programing concepts.
1.3. Identify JavaScript and jQuery programing concepts.
1.4. Demonstrate the use of Git for version control.

Domain 2.0: Site building

2.1. Demonstrate ability to create and configure content types with appropriate fields and field settings for building basic data structures.
2.2. Demonstrate ability to configure field display and view modes for content types.
2.3. Demonstrate ability to create and use taxonomy vocabularies and terms for classification and organization of content.
2.4. Demonstrate ability to configure blocks for building layouts from information widgets.
2.5. Demonstrate ability to build main and alternative navigation systems by using menus.
2.6. Demonstrate ability to create and configure Views for building content list pages, blocks and feeds.

Domain 3.0: Front-end development (theming)

3.1. Given a scenario, demonstrate ability to create a custom theme or sub theme.
3.2. Demonstrate knowledge of theming concepts.
3.3. Demonstrate ability to build or override PHP templates for defining layout content.
3.4. Demonstrate ability to use theme () functions for overriding custom output.
3.5. Demonstrate ability to write template pre-process functions for overriding custom output.

Domain 4.0: Back-end development (coding)

4.1. Demonstrate ability to develop custom modules using Drupal API for extending Drupal functionality.
4.2. Demonstrate ability to work with Drupal's database abstraction layer for managing tables and CRUD operations on data.
4.3. Demonstrate ability to debug code and troubleshoot site problems.
4.4. Demonstrate ability to write code using Drupal coding standards.
4.5. Demonstrate ability to analyze and resolve site performance issues arising from site configuration and custom code.
4.6. Demonstrate ability to analyze and resolve security issues arising from site configuration and custom code.


Sample Question:


You are running a popular local news portal. A mobile app developer in your area approached you for a permission to syndicate your content on their mobile app. They are requesting the content be made available as a feed rather than in HTML format.

How can you provide list of latest articles in RSS format?

  1. Create a view with a Feed display filtering only the Articles content type.

  2. Create a view with a Page display filtering only the Articles content type and under filter options enable the RSS filter

  3. Create a view with a Page display filtering only the Articles content type and under Style output options select RSS Feed instead of Unformatted List

  4. Create a view with a Page display filtering only the Articles content type, modifying the .tpl.php file for the view and render the output in RSS format

Please note: This sample question is to give a test taker an example of the format and style of the questions that appear on the exam. This question does not appear on the exam itself.

Acquia Certified Front End Specialist – D7

Exam name: Acquia Certified Front End Specialist – Drupal 7
Exam Duration: 90 minutes
Exam Price: $300
Exam length: 60 questions
Pass/Fail mark: 68%
(subject to change)

Introduction

The Acquia Certified Front End Specialist exam is intended for Acquia customers, partners, and employees who perform a Front end Developer role. This exam validates a candidate’s ability to:

Design, develop and deploy Drupal 7 based solutions focusing on the front end.

Understand core Drupal architecture best practices for site building and theme development.

Develop and maintain applications using Drupal front end development.

Develop, customize, and implement new Drupal themes.

Customize and extend existing modules.

Build and customize displays using Views module.

The basic knowledge and skills required at this level should include all of the following areas and objective components below.

Drupal

Experience developing Drupal websites and web applications.

Set-up and configure Drupal sites

Develop and customize Drupal themes and sub-themes.

Customize and extend existing modules.

Experience with the Views, Devel, and Drupal core modules.

Drupal security and performance.

Web and IT Knowledge

JavaScript and jQuery

CSS

PHP

HTML5

Object-oriented programming

Security and performance

Version control systems

These training courses or other equivalent methodologies will assist in exam preparation:

Drupal Documentation http://drupal.org/documentation

Acquia Training courses

Drupal 7 Site Building

Drupal 7 Layout and Theming

Note: This exam blueprint includes topics /domains and test objectives to help guide the test taker. They should not be construed as a comprehensive listing of all of the content of this examination.

The table below lists the domains measured by this examination and the extent to which they are represented. (subject to change)

Domain % of Examination
1.0 Fundamental web concepts 18%
2.0 Theming concepts 18%
3.0 Sub-theming concepts 9%
4.0 Templates 13%
5.0 Template functions 13%
6.0 Layout configuration 13%
7.0 Performance 9%
8.0 Security 7%
TOTAL 100%

Test Format:

Test item formats used in this examination are:

Multiple-choice: Examinee selects one option that best answers the question or completes a statement.

Multiple-response: Examinee selects more than one option that best answers the question or completes a statement.

Content

Domain 1.0: Fundamental web development concepts

1.1. Demonstrate knowledge of HTML and CSS.
1.2. Identify PHP programing concepts.
1.3. Identify JavaScript and jQuery programing concepts.

Domain 2.0: Theming concepts

2.1 Demonstrate ability to define and use custom regions in a theme.
2.2 Demonstrate ability to work with theme settings.
2.3 Demonstrate knowledge of working with stylesheets.
2.4 Demonstrate knowledge of working with JavaScript in a theme.

Domain 3.0: Sub-theming concepts

3.1 Demonstrate ability to build a sub-theme from a base theme.
3.2 Demonstrate ability to work with templates and pre-process functions in a sub-theme.

Domain 4.0: Templates

4.1 Demonstrate ability to build and customize core templates for managing markup.
4.2 Demonstrate ability to work with template suggestions.

Domain 5.0: Template functions

5.1 Demonstrate ability to use theme() functions for overriding custom output.
5.2 Demonstrate ability to write template pre-process functions for overriding custom output.

Domain 6.0: Layout configuration

6.1 Demonstrate ability to configure field display and view modes for content types.
6.2 Demonstrate ability to create and configure blocks for building layouts.
6.3 Demonstrate ability to create and configure views for building content list pages, blocks and feeds.

Domain 7.0: Performance

7.1 Demonstrate ability to analyze and resolve site performance issues arising from site configuration.
7.2 Demonstrate ability to analyze and resolve security issues arising from site custom code.

Domain 8.0: Security

8.1 Demonstrate ability to analyze and resolve security issues arising from site configuration.
8.2 Demonstrate ability to analyze and resolve security issues arising from site custom theme.

Acquia Certified Back End Specialist – D7

Exam name: Acquia Certified Back End Specialist – Drupal 7
Exam Duration: 90 minutes
Exam Price: $350
Exam length: 60 questions
Pass/Fail mark: 70%
(subject to change)

Introduction

The Acquia Certified Back End Specialist exam is intended for Acquia customers, partners, and employees who perform a Back end Developer role. This exam validates a candidate’s ability to:

Design, develop and deploy Drupal based solutions focusing on the back end

Understand the core Drupal basic architecture best practices for back end development

Develop and maintain applications using Drupal back end development

Develop and implement new Drupal modules

Customize and extend existing modules

The basic knowledge and skills required at this level should include all of the following areas and objective components below.

Drupal

Professional experience using Drupal technology

Set-up and configure Drupal sites

Develop and implement new Drupal modules

Customize and extend existing modules: knowledge of existing modules, PHP

Drupal security and performance

Web and IT Knowledge

Experience in developing enterprise Drupal websites and web applications

PHP knowledge

OOP knowledge

HTML, CSS, JavaScript/JQuery

MySQL

Basic Linux server administration skills

Experience with security and performance

Version control systems

These training courses or other equivalent methodologies will assist in exam preparation:

Drupal Documentation http://drupal.org/documentation

Acquia Training courses

Drupal 7 Site Building

Drupal 7 Module Development

Note: This exam blueprint includes topics /domains and test objectives to help guide the test taker. They should not be construed as a comprehensive listing of all of the content of this examination.

The table below lists the domains measured by this examination and the extent to which they are represented. (subject to change)

Domain % of Examination
1.0 Fundamental web concepts 13%
2.0 Drupal core API 30%
3.0 Database abstraction layer 10%
4.0 Debug code and troubleshooting 8%
5.0 Theme integration 5%
6.0 Performance 13%
7.0 Security 13%
8.0 Community 8%
TOTAL 100%

Test Format:

Test item formats used in this examination are:

Multiple-choice: Examinee selects one option that best answers the question or completes a statement.

Multiple-response: Examinee selects more than one option that best answers the question or completes a statement.

Content

Domain 1.0: Fundamental web development concepts

1.1. Demonstrate knowledge of HTML and CSS.
1.2. Identify PHP programing concepts.
1.3. Identify JavaScript and jQuery programing concepts.
1.4. Demonstrate the use of Git for version control.

Domain 2.0: Drupal core API

2.1 Demonstrate an ability to register paths to define how URL requests are handled in Drupal using hook_menu and hook_menu_alter.
2.2 Demonstrate ability to build, alter, validate and submit forms using Form API.
2.3 Demonstrate ability to interact with the node system using hook_node_*.
2.4 Demonstrate ability to interact with the block system using hook_block_*.
2.5 Demonstrate ability to use core system hooks like hook_boot, hook_init, hook_cron, hook_mail, hook_file*.
2.6 Determine order of hooks to enhance performance.

Domain 3.0: Database abstraction layer

3.1 Demonstrate ability to work with Drupal's database abstraction layer for managing tables.
3.2 Demonstrate ability to work with Drupal's database abstraction layer CRUD operations on data.

Domain 4.0: Debug code and troubleshooting

4.1 Demonstrate ability to debug code.
4.2 Demonstrate ability to troubleshoot site problems.

Domain 5.0: Theme integration

5.1 Demonstrate ability to work with Drupal's theme CSS and JavaScript APIs.

Domain 6.0: Performance

6.1 Demonstrate ability to analyze and resolve site performance issues arising from site configuration.
6.2 Demonstrate ability to analyze and resolve site performance issues arising from custom code.
6.3 Implement Drupal caching strategies.

Domain 7.0: Security

7.1 Demonstrate ability to analyze and resolve security issues arising from site configuration.
7.2 Demonstrate ability to analyze and resolve security issues arising from site custom code.
7.3 Demonstrate the ability to implement Drupal core security mechanisms.

Domain 8.0: Community

8.1 Demonstrate the ability to contribute to the community.
8.2 Demonstrate ability to write code using Drupal code standards.

Acquia Platform Certification Track

Acquia Certified Cloud Pro

Exam name: Acquia Certified Cloud Pro
Exam Duration: 60 minutes
Exam Price: $155
Exam length: 40 questions
Pass/Fail mark: 65%
(subject to change)

Introduction

The purpose of this exam is to validate skills and knowledge of a developer in the area of hosting and maintaining a Drupal website on Acquia Cloud.

This exam validates a candidate’s ability to:

Understand the features provided by Acquia Cloud

Configure Acquia Cloud environment for hosting a Drupal based website

Implement an optimum development workflow to work with Acquia Cloud-based websites

Understand and implement Acquia Cloud development and deployment best practices

Domains

Note: This exam blueprint includes topics /domains and test objectives to help guide the test taker. They should not be construed as a comprehensive listing of all of the content of this examination.

Domain % of Examination
1.0 Fundamental web hosting concepts 15%
2.0 Acquia Cloud features and interface 35%
3.0 Drupal development workflow on Acquia Cloud 35%
4.0 Acquia Cloud best practices 15%
TOTAL 100%

Test Format:

Test item formats used in this examination are:

  • Multiple-choice: Examinee selects one option that best answers the question or completes a statement.

  • Multiple-response: Examinee selects more than one option that best answers the question or completes a statement.

Content

Domain 1.0: Fundamental web hosting concepts

1.1. Demonstrate knowledge of basic web hosting architecture.
1.2. Demonstrate knowledge of Drupal development workflows.
1.3. Demonstrate knowledge of key security and performance concepts.

Domain 2.0: Acquia Cloud features and tnterface

2.1 Demonstrate understanding of key features of Acquia Cloud.
2.2 Demonstrate ability to configure various aspects of an environment.
2.3 Demonstrate ability to configure teams and users.

Domain 3.0: Drupal development workflow on Acquia Cloud

3.1 Demonstrate ability to install a new Drupal site on Acquia Cloud.
3.2 Demonstrate ability to set up local development environment for working with Acquia Cloud.
3.3 Demonstrate ability to deploy code, database and files to various environments.
3.4 Demonstrate ability to manage Drupal site configurations across various environment.
3.5 Demonstrate ability to use Cloud API for workflow automation.

Domain 4.0: Acquia Cloud best practices

4.1 Demonstrate understanding of best practices for performance enhancement.
4.2 Demonstrate understanding of security best practices.
4.3 Demonstrate understanding of best practices for live deployment.

Acquia Certified Site Factory Pro

Exam name: Acquia Certified Site Factory Pro
Exam Duration: 60 minutes
Exam Price: $155
Exam length: 40 questions
Pass/Fail mark: 65%
(subject to change)

About the exam

This exam is designed to validate skills and knowledge of developers, technical managers and architects in the area of designing, implementing and maintaining Acquia Cloud Site Factory (ACSF)-based solutions.

This exam is meant for Senior Developers, Technical Managers and Architects working on the Site Factory platform.

This exam validates a candidate’s ability to:

Understand the features provided by Acquia Cloud Site Factory (ACSF)

Understand and use Platform Administration functionality provided by ACSF

Implement an optimum development workflow to work with ACSF codebase

Understand and implement ACSF development and deployment best practices

Domains

Note: This exam blueprint includes topics/domains and test objectives to help guide the test taker. They should not be construed as a comprehensive listing of all of the content of this examination.

Domain % of Examination
1.0 Fundamental web hosting and Drupal architecture concepts 15%
2.0 Acquia Cloud Site Factory features and interface 30%
3.0 Site builder and developer workflows on Acquia Cloud Site Factory 40%
4.0 Acquia Cloud Site Factory best practices 15%
TOTAL 100%

Test Format:

Test item formats used in this examination are:

  • Multiple-choice: Examinee selects one option that best answers the question or completes a statement.

  • Multiple-response: Examinee selects more than one option that best answers the question or completes a statement.

Content

Domain 1.0: Fundamental web hosting and Drupal architecture concepts

1.1. Demonstrate knowledge of basic web hosting architecture.
1.2. Demonstrate knowledge of Drupal development workflows and multi-site architecture.
1.3. Demonstrate knowledge of key security and performance concepts for a multi-site, multi-server environment.

Domain 2.0: Acquia Cloud Site Factory features and interface

2.1 Demonstrate understanding of key features of Acquia Cloud Site Factory.
2.2 Demonstrate ability to perform platform administration activities.
2.3 Demonstrate ability to configure global site administration settings.

Domain 3.0: Site builder and developer workflows on Acquia Cloud Site Factory

3.1 Demonstrate ability to launch and manage sites.
3.2 Demonstrate understanding of code and release management.
3.3 Demonstrate ability to manage theming of Site Factory-based sites.
3.4 Demonstrate ability to deploy a custom Drupal distribution.
3.5 Demonstrate ability to use staging and testing capabilities in Site Factory.
3.6 Demonstrate ability to use Site Factory API for managing sites.

Domain 4.0: Acquia Cloud Site Factory best practices

4.1 Demonstrate understanding of governance models for managing large number of sites.
4.2 Demonstrate understanding of security and performance best practices.
4.3 Demonstrate understanding of best practices for site content and configuration staging.

Helpful Resources

Drupal 8 Study Guides

These study guides will jump-start your preparation and get you on track to pass the exams of your choice. You'll find insight into the nature of each exam, and some useful exam-taking tips.

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Drupal 7 Certified Developer Study Guide

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Drupal and Acquia Product Tutorials

These task-oriented, hands-on tutorials help you leverage common tasks with Drupal on the Acquia Platform. Each one walks you through step-by-step instructions, with structured lessons to help you reach your final goal.

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Acquia Certification Registry

Acquia Certification is the premier professional certification program for Drupal and the Acquia Platform. See who is listed.

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Schedule a test

Come and test your knowledge and skills and earn an Acquia Certification.

Schedule now

Acquia Certification Program Agreement

Please read the Acquia Certification Program rules before taking an exam. By taking an Acquia Certification exam you are accepting the rules of the program. 

View now

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm currently taking an exam and having trouble - what do I do?

If you’re currently taking an exam online and you’re running into trouble during setup, launch, or during your exam, you need to contact Kryterion Support, not Acquia. Kryterion Support can help you get your test back up and running. Visit the Kryterion Support Page for troubleshooting tips.

If you need further support, use one of the following methods – Available Sunday 6 a.m. – Friday 12 a.m. and Saturday from 6 a.m. - 12 a.m. (Phoenix Arizona Time, UTC -7).

  • Open a live chat session from the Support Page, or submit a web-based support request

  • Voice: 1-877-313-2008 (U.S.) or +001-602-659-4679 (International)

  • Email: [email protected]

How are the Acquia Certification exams conducted?

Acquia Certification exams are conducted by our testing partner Kryterion via their testing system named Webassessor. You have the choice to take an exam online from your location (online proctored or OLP), or onsite at one of Kryterion’s worldwide test centers.

For online proctored exams, you’ll need a compatible Windows or Mac computer with a webcam and to install the Sentinel software. See the Test Taker Guide for full details.

Onsite exams are administered at Kryterion Testing Centers in more than 750 locations worldwide.

How do I register for an exam?

  1. If you don’t have one already, create an account on Webassessor first. If your company is sponsoring your exam please provide your company name when registering.

  2. Login to Webassessor with your account

  3. Click “register” for exam link from the top right menu

  4. Click + to expand the catalogs, and find look for the exam you wish to take

  5. Click + by the exam name to see available exam delivery options (onsite or online)

  6. Carefully select either online or onsite delivery option and click “buy now” button next to the option.

  7. For online option
    a. Select your time zone, then desired test date and available time option
    b. Check terms and conditions checkbox at the bottom and click “select” to proceed to next screen

  8. For onsite option
    a. Select your city, search for available testing centers in your city.
    b. Select the desired testing center and click “select” button.
    c. On the following screen, select desired test date and available time option.
    d. Check terms and conditions checkbox at the bottom and proceed to next screen.

  9. If you have a voucher or coupon code, enter the code in the box provided special price or discount, else proceed to checkout page.

  10. Enter your billing information and make the payment.

  11. You will receive the registration information and your schedule by email.

Is there a test center near me?

Kryterion has more than 750 test centers worldwide. Use the following link to locate a test center near you: http://www.kryteriononline.com/Locate-Test-Center.

If there is no test center near your location, you can always take an Online test from your home or office.

How do I get a certificate and a badge?

If you pass the exam, you will receive an automatic email with your score, a certificate and a digital badge. If you didn’t receive this email, please contact [email protected]

We do not issue physical or printed certificates.

Important notes for online proctored exam test takers:

  1. Leave adequate time before your exam to set up your computer and workspace.

  2. Review the requirements and Instructions several days before your scheduled exam to make sure you have the correct hardware and software.

  3. You will need to schedule your exam at least 24 hours prior to the start of the exam.

  4. You will need an internal or external webcam.

  5. Do not use two monitors.

  6. Find a quiet place to take the exam alone, as you will be monitored and noise / busy surroundings may cause the exam to shut down.

  7. Do not use headphones for the duration of the exam.

  8. Help or tutoring during an exam is strictly prohibited.

  9. Preferred specs https://www.onlineproctoring.com/page.html?_pageId=technicalrequirements

How can I study for the exams?

What is the retake policy?

  • If you don’t pass an exam, you may retake it.

  • You need to register again for retake attempts, and either pay full price or use a coupon or voucher.

  • If you don’t pass, you need to wait for at least two weeks for taking the exam again.

  • A candidate may try any exam for a maximum of three times. A fourth attempt requires a waiver from the Acquia Certification Program office.

  • If you don’t pass an exam, you’ll get an email with your score.

What is the cancellation policy?

Online proctored exams: You may cancel a scheduled OLP exam up to 24 hours before the scheduled time for a full refund. If you cancel inside the 24-hour window you will not receive a refund.

Onsite exam: You may cancel a scheduled onsite exam up to 72 hours before the scheduled time for a full refund. If you cancel inside the 72-hour window you will not receive a refund.

What is the rescheduling policy?

Online exam: You may reschedule an OLP exam up to 24 hours before the scheduled time at no cost. Rescheduling fewer than 24 hours before the scheduled time is subject to rescheduling fees.

Onsite exam: You may reschedule an onsite exam up to 72 hours before the scheduled exam at no cost. Rescheduling an exam fewer than 72 hours before the scheduled time are subject to rescheduling fees.

What happens if I miss my scheduled exam?

We have a strict no-show policy. If you miss your scheduled time for an exam (online or onsite) you forfeit that test attempt. We do not provide a refund for no-shows. You will need to register again and either pay or use a new voucher to take the exam.

What is the Acquia Certification Registry?

The registry lists the names of all who have earned Acquia Certification credentials.

Why is my name missing from the certification registry?

It takes between six and 12 hours for a successful candidate's name to appear on the certification registry. If you cannot find your name after 12 hours from a successful attempt, please send an update request by filling out the form at: https://certification.acquia.com/update-request.

Can I buy bulk vouchers for my organization or team?

You can buy bulk vouchers from Acquia, for the exams. To do so - please contact certificati[email protected]

What should I do if some information from my registry record is missing or needs to be updated?

If your registry record needs to be updated, please send an update request by filling out the form at: https://certification.acquia.com/update-request.

After I pass an exam does my certification expire?

Acquia Certifications do not expire.

Can I achieve grand master credentials by mixing D7 and D8 certifications?

No. Grand master credentials are specific to a major Drupal version. To earn Drupal 8 certification grand master credentials, you need to pass only the Drupal 8 developer, front-end specialist, and back-end specialist exams (same for Drupal 7).

How do I get more information or get in touch with the Acquia Certification team?

If you have any questions or inquiries, contact the Acquia Certification team:

Email: [email protected]

Twitter: @AcquiaAcademy.