Become an AWS Certification Subject Matter Expert (SME)

Learn how to apply
We are searching for qualified SMEs to participate in AWS Certification exam development events. SMEs participate in remote and in-person events that focus on the creation and review of exam content as part of our certification exam development process. At each event, SMEs receive training on relevant certification development tasks. SME activities at AWS Certification workshops may include:
 
  • Establishing the topics an exam will cover
  • Developing and evaluating exam questions
  • Determining the exam’s passing score 
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Benefits

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Networking and learning opportunities

SMEs from various backgrounds share their unique use cases and lessons learned at exam development workshops. SMEs also have the opportunity to gain insights into AWS services and feature sets. 

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Recognition

Add to your resume/CV and LinkedIn page that you contributed to an industry-recognized program. For Certification events, attend multiple events to earn an SME digital badge. 

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SME gear

Successfully participating in an exam development event gives you the opportunity to earn exclusive SME gear, such as sweatshirts, stickers, AWS Certification exam vouchers, and more. 

SME qualifications

Required experience

  • Relevant hands-on AWS experience
  • Strong English reading and writing skills
  • For Foundational- and Associate-level exams: a minimum of one year of hands-on or equivalent AWS experience
  • For Professional-level and Specialty exams: a minimum of two years of hands-on or equivalent AWS experience

Other requirements

  • For existing certifications: SMEs must be credential holders in good standing for the given certification
  • For new certifications: SMEs must hold a relevant certification at that level, plus the equivalent of two to three years of hands-on experience with the subject matter

Please note: We maintain a separation between the development of AWS Training and Certification Learning SME materials and AWS Certification content. Anyone who may profit from a specific knowledge of AWS Certification exam content is not allowed to contribute to AWS Certification exam development. This includes trainers, authors, teachers, and individuals who create training content related to AWS Certification exams.

How to apply

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Apply

Complete the program application accurately and as thoroughly as possible. Be sure to indicate your interest in the AWS Certification SME Program.

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Accept

If you are selected for an exam development opportunity, a team member will email you an invitation with event-specific details.

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Train

Take and pass the required AWS Certification Subject Matter Expert (SME) Item Writing course. 

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Participate

Participate and collaborate with your peers during an event for a chance to earn exclusive SME gear, AWS Certification exam vouchers, and more.

Request an application

What people are saying about being an SME

Hear from past workshop participants about their experience and the benefits they’ve found by participating in the AWS Certification SME Program. 

AWS Certification Subject Matter Expert Benefits (1:37)

Please note: This video was recorded prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Additional SME programs

Interested in developing AWS product and solutions training and supporting curriculum development? Explore our AWS Training and Certification Learning SME Program »