Data analytics continues to dominate the job market as one of the most in-demand and future-proof career paths. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to upskill, the right certifications can help you gain practical knowledge, hands-on experience, and industry recognition. Below are nine top free certifications to kickstart your journey in data analytics.
9. Excel Macros & VBA for Beginners
Platform: SkillUp by Simplilearn
Duration: 1–2 hours
Skills Covered: Excel Macros, VBA programming, task automation
This beginner-friendly course is perfect for those looking to automate repetitive tasks and boost productivity in Excel. Learn how to write VBA code and create Macros to streamline your data analysis workflows.
Key Highlights:
- Automate tasks using Excel Macros
- Get hands-on with basic VBA programming
- No prior coding experience required
8. Business Analytics with Excel
Platform: SkillUp by Simplilearn
Duration: 2 hours
Skills Covered: Descriptive statistics, data visualization, business decision-making
A perfect entry point into data analytics, this course covers essential Excel tools used in business analysis. It focuses on data interpretation and data-driven decision-making using real-world scenarios.
Key Highlights:
- Build core Excel analytics skills
- Learn real-world business problem solving
- Practical and beginner-friendly
7. Introduction to SQL
Platform: SkillUp by Simplilearn
Duration: 1–2 hours
Skills Covered: SQL basics, querying databases, filtering data
SQL is a must-have skill for any aspiring data analyst. This course introduces the basics of structured query language, enabling learners to access and manipulate databases effectively.
Key Highlights:
- Learn to write simple SQL queries
- Understand relational databases
- Practice querying real datasets
6. Power BI for Beginners
Platform: SkillUp by Simplilearn
Duration: 1.5 hours
Skills Covered: Data modeling, dashboard building, Power BI basics
This course introduces Microsoft Power BI, one of the most powerful data visualization tools used in industry. Learn to build dashboards, connect datasets, and create visual stories from raw data.
Key Highlights:
- Beginner-friendly Power BI training
- Build your first interactive dashboard
- Ideal for reporting and visualization roles
5. Python for Data Analysis
Platform: SkillUp by Simplilearn
Duration: 4.5 hours
Skills Covered: Python basics, data structures, libraries like pandas and NumPy
Python is widely used in the data world. This course helps you understand the role of Python in analyzing datasets and performing exploratory data analysis.
Key Highlights:
- Learn Python with real data scenarios
- Understand core libraries like pandas
- No prior programming needed
4. Introduction to Tableau
Platform: SkillUp by Simplilearn
Duration: 2 hours
Skills Covered: Tableau basics, data visualization, dashboard creation
Tableau is another industry-leading visualization tool. This course teaches how to build visual stories and gain insights using drag-and-drop features within Tableau.
Key Highlights:
- Master data storytelling with Tableau
- Create interactive charts and dashboards
- Great for portfolio development
3. Data Analyst 101
Platform: SkillUp by Simplilearn
Duration: 2 hours
Skills Covered: Excel formulas, data operations, beginner analysis techniques
Perfect for absolute beginners, this course focuses on the core formulas and functions in Excel needed for day-to-day data analysis. It’s a practical gateway into analytics with no prerequisites.
Key Highlights:
- Learn essential Excel formulas and functions
- Solve data problems with spreadsheet tools
- Quick and impactful learning path
2. Career Essentials in Business Analysis by Microsoft and LinkedIn
Platform: LinkedIn Learning
Duration: Flexible
Skills Covered: Business requirements, analysis techniques, tools like Excel and Power BI
This certification is ideal for professionals interested in business analysis with a focus on data-driven decision-making. Learn to gather and interpret requirements, analyze trends, and align data strategy with business goals.
Key Highlights:
- Industry-relevant curriculum by Microsoft
- Great for aspiring Business/Data Analysts
- Earn a shareable certificate from LinkedIn
1. Career Essentials in Data Analysis by Microsoft and LinkedIn
Platform: LinkedIn Learning
Duration: Flexible
Skills Covered: Data analysis, visualization, Excel, Power BI
This well-rounded program provides fundamental training in data analysis concepts, visualization techniques, and tools used across industries. It helps learners build core analytical thinking and hands-on skills.
Key Highlights:
- Designed by Microsoft & LinkedIn
- Learn data analysis from the ground up
- Ideal for building a strong foundation
Conclusion
Whether you’re exploring data analytics for the first time or looking to enhance your current skill set, these top free courses offer a fantastic opportunity to learn and grow — without spending a rupee. Choose the program that best aligns with your career goals and start building your path to a rewarding data analyst career in 2025.