Whether you’re just beginning your CAD journey or looking to advance your engineering career, earning a SOLIDWORKS certification is one of the best ways to validate your skills and stand out in a competitive industry. Certifications demonstrate practical knowledge of the software and provide employers with confidence in your ability to work efficiently and accurately in SOLIDWORKS.
But with multiple certification levels available, many users ask the same question:
Where do I start?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the SOLIDWORKS certification path, explain how to prepare for the Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate (CSWA) exam, and show you the best training options available.
Understanding the SOLIDWORKS Certification Path
SOLIDWORKS certifications are designed to help users progressively develop their skills. Rather than jumping into advanced exams, it’s recommended that users build a strong foundation before moving on to more specialized certifications.
A typical certification journey looks like this:
- Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate (CSWA) – The ideal starting point for new users.
- Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional (CSWP) – Builds on your core modelling skills with more advanced design challenges.
- Certified SOLIDWORKS Expert (CSWE) – The highest level of certification, designed for experienced users with comprehensive SOLIDWORKS knowledge.
There are also numerous specialist certifications covering topics such as Sheet Metal, Weldments, Surfacing, Drawings, Mold Tools, Simulation and more, allowing users to demonstrate expertise in specific disciplines.
Starting with the CSWA
The Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate (CSWA) certification is the recommended first step for anyone looking to validate their SOLIDWORKS skills.
The exam focuses on the core tools that every SOLIDWORKS user should understand, including:
- Sketching fundamentals
- Part modelling
- Feature creation
- Assemblies
- Basic engineering drawings
- Applying materials and calculating mass properties
- Design intent and model modification
Rather than testing memorisation, the CSWA measures your ability to solve real-world design problems within a set time limit.
How to Prepare for the CSWA Exam
The best preparation combines theory with hands-on practice.
Some tips include:
- Practice creating parts from engineering drawings.
- Become comfortable using common features such as Extrudes, Revolves, Fillets, Chamfers and Patterns.
- Learn how to edit existing models efficiently.
- Practice assembling components using standard mates.
- Familiarise yourself with mass properties and material assignments.
- Work under timed conditions to improve speed and confidence.
The more time you spend modelling real parts, the more prepared you’ll be for the exam.
Prepare for Success with CADMES
At CADMES, we offer two effective ways to help you prepare for your SOLIDWORKS certification, allowing you to choose the learning style that best suits your schedule and experience level.
In-Person SOLIDWORKS Training
For those who prefer a structured classroom environment, our instructor-led training courses provide comprehensive, hands-on learning delivered by our experienced Applications Engineers.
During training, you’ll work through practical exercises using real SOLIDWORKS models while receiving immediate guidance and feedback from certified professionals.
Benefits of instructor-led training include:
- Face-to-face instruction from experienced SOLIDWORKS Applications Engineers.
- Practical, hands-on exercises that reinforce key concepts.
- The opportunity to ask questions and receive immediate assistance.
- Small class sizes for a more personalised learning experience.
- Training aligned with industry best practices and certification objectives.
Whether you’re completely new to SOLIDWORKS or looking to strengthen your existing skills before attempting certification, our classroom training provides the confidence and practical experience needed to succeed.
Learn at Your Own Pace with SolidProfessor
If your schedule doesn’t allow you to attend classroom training, SolidProfessor offers an excellent alternative.
SolidProfessor is a comprehensive online learning platform designed specifically for SOLIDWORKS users. With hundreds of professionally developed training videos, guided learning paths and practice exercises, you can build your skills whenever and wherever it suits you.
SolidProfessor is particularly valuable for certification preparation because it allows you to:
- Follow structured learning paths aligned with SOLIDWORKS topics.
- Revisit lessons whenever needed.
- Learn at your own pace.
- Strengthen areas where you need additional practice.
- Build confidence before writing your certification exam.
Whether you’re preparing for the CSWA or planning your path towards the CSWP and beyond, SolidProfessor provides a flexible and effective way to continue developing your SOLIDWORKS knowledge.
Invest in Your Future
A SOLIDWORKS certification is more than just a credential – it’s proof that you have the practical skills to design efficiently and solve real engineering challenges.
By combining quality training with consistent practice, you’ll not only improve your confidence in SOLIDWORKS but also increase your value as a design professional.
Whether you choose in-person training with our experienced Applications Engineers or the flexibility of SolidProfessor’s online learning platform, CADMES is here to support you throughout your certification journey.
Ready to start your SOLIDWORKS certification journey? Contact CADMES today to learn more about our instructor-led training courses or discover how SolidProfessor can help you prepare for your next certification exam.