PCED™ – Certified Entry-Level Data Analyst with Python
(Exam PCED-30-0x)The PCED certification confirms essential knowledge and foundational skills in data analytics and Python programming. It focuses on core data practices that every aspiring analyst should master – from collecting, organizing, cleaning and analyzing data using built-in Python features and essential libraries, to drawing basic insights and communicating findings clearly, making it ideal for those beginning their journey into data analysis and programming.
The exam emphasizes Python's built-in capabilities, such as variables, data structures, file handling, control flow, and functions, alongside practical modules like csv, math, statistics, datetime, collections, and NumPy. Candidates will demonstrate the ability to work with simple datasets, perform common analytical operations, and communicate insights using both text-based summaries and basic charts.
PCED is designed for beginners with no or very little prior experience in data analysis, data analytics, or programming, offering a clear and supportive entry into Python and the world of data. It builds the practical and conceptual foundation needed for more advanced tools, libraries, and certifications in the future.
Earning the PCED certification shows that you understand the fundamentals of Python and how to apply them to real-world data tasks. It provides a strong starting point for a data career and leads directly to the PCAD™ certification, which covers more advanced techniques and tools used in professional data analysis and analytics.
Become PCED™ certified and set your foundation in data analytics
By achieving the PCED certification, you establish a solid foundation in Python for data analytics, gaining a competitive edge in today's data-driven landscape. Python’s role as a critical tool in the data analytics and science sectors underscores the value of this certification for anyone looking to begin or enhance a career in these fields.
PCED certification is especially relevant for:
- Complete beginners who want to break into data analytics with Python and build confidence through structured practice;
- Aspiring data analysts looking for a foundational credential to start a learning path toward professional data roles;
- Students and career changers aiming to gain practical, job-ready Python skills for data work;
- Professionals in non-technical roles seeking to apply data thinking in areas like business, education, or healthcare;
- Educators or trainers interested in teaching introductory Python and data analysis.
Python is one of the most important and widely used programming languages in data analysis. Its simple syntax and powerful features make it the go-to tool for beginners and professionals alike. Whether it's reading data from a file, cleaning messy data, or calculating key statistics, Python helps analysts work faster and more efficiently.
Essential data analysis skills—such as organizing information, performing calculations, finding patterns, and creating clear summaries—are in high demand across many industries. From business and marketing to education, government, and healthcare, organizations need people who can make sense of data and communicate their findings clearly.
Entry-level roles like junior data analyst, research assistant, reporting coordinator, or operations support analyst often require foundational knowledge in Python, basic statistics, and data cleaning. These roles focus on real tasks like organizing files, checking data for issues, calculating averages, or helping create charts and reports. According to Glassdoor and Salary.com, junior analysts in the U.S. typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 per year, with opportunities to grow as experience and skills increase.
By learning Python and essential data analysis techniques, you're building a strong starting point for a career in analytics or data science. These core skills are the foundation for more advanced tools, and they help beginners feel confident working with data in real-world situations.
PCED™ Exam Information
| SPECIFICATIONS ITEM | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| Exam name | PCED – Certified Entry-Level Data Analyst with Python |
| Exam Code & Current Exam Versions | PCED-30-02 – Status: Active (released July 15, 2025)
PCED-30-01 – Status: Discontinued (retired July 14, 2025 – vouchers already issued may still be redeemed). |
| Prerequisites | No formal prerequisites. Recommended Experience: PCEP™ (or equivalent knowledge) and a foundation in mathematics and statistics |
| Validity | 7 years |
| Exam Duration | 60 minutes + NDA |
| Number of Questions | 40 |
| Format | Single- and multiple-select questions, scenario-based items |
| Passing Score | 75% |
| Languages | English |
| Cost | Exam – from $69
|
| Delivery Channel | OpenEDG Testing Service – TestNow™ |
| Testing Policies | PCED Testing Policies |
| Exam Syllabus | PCED Exam Syllabus |
| Associated Certifications | Associate: PCAD™ – Certified Associate Data Analyst with Python
Professional: PCPD™ – Certified Professional Data Analyst with Python |
| Free Learning Resources |
OpenEDG – PD101: Python for Data Analytics 101 (Status: In development) Cisco Networking Academy – We recommend starting with Introduction to Data Science to build a solid foundation, followed by Data Science Essentials with Python to apply those concepts using Python. |
| Practice Tests | The PCED-30-02 Practice Tests are available for purchase in the OpenEDG Store. |
PCED FAQ and Quick References
- Read the PCED Testing Policies and TestNow specifications to make sure you follow the code of conduct, meet all the technical requirements, and know what to expect during your exam session.
- Create a Test Candidate account if you haven't already done it. (Download a PDF Tutorial)
- Go to OpenEDG Voucher Store and buy an exam voucher. You can choose between a single-shot voucher, voucher with retake, and voucher + practice test bundle.
- Log in to your test candidate account, enter the voucher code, perform a diagnostics check, check in, and launch your exam session. (Download a PDF Tutorial)
You can only retake a failed exam after 7 days of your last attempt (waiting period).
If you purchased a voucher with a free retake option and failed your exam – wait 7 days, go to the Exam History section on your Test Candidate account, and click the Get Free Retake button that will become activated next to your exam session status information. Your exam voucher will automatically be assigned to your account and become available in the Certify section.
If you purchased a single-shot voucher and failed your exam, you need to purchase a new voucher to take the exam again. You can launch a new exam session after 7 days from your last attempt.
Here's what you need to do to access the official Python Institute PCED practice tests:
- Go to OpenEDG Voucher Store and buy a practice test voucher. (skip this step if you already have a voucher)
- Log in to your OpenEDG Learner Account, click "Practice", enter the voucher code, read and accept the terms and conditions, and activate the practice test. (Download a PDF Tutorial)
Note that if you're logged in as Test Candidate, you need to switch your role to Learner in order to be able to launch the practice test.
Congratulations! You’ve officially joined the Python Institute certified community and earned an industry-recognized credential that validates your skills in Python programming, computer science, and the fundamentals of data analysis. Within 24 hours of completing your exam, you’ll receive an email containing a link to your digital certificate, verification code, and your official PCED badge issued through Credly’s Acclaim platform. Share your achievement proudly with peers, colleagues, and employers on LinkedIn and other professional networks.
What’s next? Continue developing your Python and data analytics expertise by advancing along the Data Science certification path. Enroll in the next course and prepare for the PCAD™ – Certified Associate Data Analyst with Python certification to take your skills and career to the next level.