SAP Certifications in the Age of AI: What's Changing?

What you will learn

If you've been putting off getting your SAP certification because you're worried about memorizing hundreds of multiple-choice questions, I've got great news for you.

SAP just completely transformed how they certify professionals. And it's not just a minor tweak - this is a fundamental shift that changes everything about how you prepare, take exams, and prove your expertise.

Here's the deal:

Starting in November 2025, SAP began rolling out a revolutionary certification model that replaces traditional test-taking with real-world, hands-on problem-solving. By mid-January 2026, most exams will follow this new format, with all certifications transitioning by March 2026.

In this post, you'll discover exactly what's changing, why it matters for your career, and how you can prepare for this new certification landscape. Let's dive in.

Why SAP Is Reimagining Certifications

You might be wondering:

"Why change something that's been working for decades?"

The answer is simple: AI has changed how we work.

In today's workplace, you don't need to memorize every SAP transaction code or recall obscure system configurations. You have AI assistants like ChatGPT, SAP Joule, and comprehensive documentation at your fingertips.

What matters now isn't what you can memorize - it's what you can actually do when facing real SAP challenges.

SAP recognized this reality and asked themselves: "Why should our certifications test memorization skills that no longer reflect how professionals actually work?"

Their answer? Transform certifications to validate practical skills and real-world problem-solving abilities instead of test-taking prowess.

The 5 Game-Changing Shifts in SAP Certifications

1. From Multiple-Choice to Performance-Based Assessments

Here's what's changing:

Old Format:

• 80 multiple-choice questions
• Memorization-focused
• Pass/fail based on selecting correct answers
• Disconnected from actual work

New Format:

• Scenario-based practical tasks
• System simulations and hands-on exercises
• Real-world business challenges
• AI avatar role-play scenarios (for some certifications)

Instead of "Which transaction code opens the material master?" you'll face scenarios like: "Configure the material master for this manufacturing scenario considering regulatory requirements and optimize for procurement efficiency."

What this means for you:

If you've been avoiding certifications because you hate standardized tests, this is your moment. The new format rewards practical experience and problem-solving ability over memorization skills.

2. Open-Book Exams: Yes, Really

Want to know the best part?

SAP's new certification exams are completely open-book.

That means during your exam, you can:

• ✅ Access SAP Help Portal
• ✅ Use SAP Learning resources
• ✅ Consult documentation
• ✅ Use AI tools like ChatGPT and SAP Joule
• ✅ Reference any online resources

This isn't about making exams easier - it's about making them more realistic.

In your actual job, do you solve problems in isolation without resources? Of course not. You Google things. You check documentation. You use AI assistants. You collaborate.

SAP's new certification approach mirrors this reality.

The catch?

You can't just copy-paste answers. The scenarios are complex enough that you need to understand, analyze, and apply knowledge - not just find information.

3. No More Proctoring Pressure

Here's something that'll reduce your exam anxiety:

SAP has eliminated live proctoring for these new practical exams.

No more:

• Webcam monitoring
• Screen recording
• Strict lockdown browsers
• Feeling watched while you work

Instead, SAP uses technical validation through your SAP Universal ID to maintain exam integrity.

Why does this matter?

Many talented SAP professionals experience test anxiety, especially under surveillance. The new self-managed exam experience creates a more comfortable, authentic environment where you can focus on demonstrating your skills rather than managing anxiety.

4. New AI-Focused Certification Tracks

It gets better:

SAP hasn't just changed how you get certified - they've also launched entirely new certification tracks specifically for AI capabilities.

New AI Certifications Include:

SAP has also released over 50 free, self-paced learning journeys touching on AI features embedded in their software - from SAP S/4HANA to SuccessFactors.

Bottom line:

If you want to future-proof your SAP career, AI certifications are no longer optional - they're essential.

5. Timeboxed, Real-Project Scenarios

Now:

Instead of racing through 80 questions in 180 minutes, you'll face timeboxed challenges designed around real project expectations.

Each practical exam presents you with:

• Realistic business scenarios from actual SAP projects
• System-based tasks you'd encounter as a consultant
• Role-appropriate challenges tailored to your certification track
• Reasonable time limits that reflect real work pacing

For example, if you're pursuing an SAP S/4HANA Financial Accounting certification, you might need to:

1. Configure a complete accounting scenario
2. Troubleshoot a financial reporting issue
3. Optimize period-end closing processes
4. Document your approach and recommendations

The exam evaluates not just your final answer, but your methodology, decision-making process, and professional approach.

What This Means for Existing Certified Professionals

You might be thinking:

"I already have SAP certifications. Do I need to retake everything?"

The short answer: No.

Here's what SAP has clarified:

✅ Your existing certifications remain valid 

✅ No immediate re-certification required 

✅ Continue your regular renewal cycle 

✅ Standard 'stay-certified assessments' still apply upon expiration

However:

The new practical, performance-based format only applies to first-time exam takers. If you're renewing an existing certification, you'll follow the standard renewal process (for now).

Your existing Credly badges will continue to showcase your credentials, with updated descriptions highlighting the practical validation approach - which actually boosts employer confidence in your capabilities.

How to Prepare for the New SAP Certification Format

Want to know the best part?

Preparing for these new certifications actually helps you become a better SAP professional, not just a better test-taker.

Here's your preparation roadmap:

Step 1: Build Hands-On Experience

The new exams reward practical experience above all else.

Action items:

• Request access to SAP sandbox systems through your employer
• Use SAP Learning Hub sandbox environments
• Complete hands-on exercises in SAP Learning Journeys
• Build personal projects to practice configurations

Pro tip: Document your hands-on work in a portfolio - it becomes valuable for job interviews too.

Step 2: Master Scenario-Based Problem-Solving

Here's the kicker:

You need to practice analyzing business scenarios and designing solutions, not just memorizing procedures.

How to practice:

• Work through case studies in our certification preparation materials
• Join SAP Community and analyze real problem discussions
• Shadow experienced consultants on actual projects
• Practice explaining your reasoning out loud

Step 3: Get Comfortable with AI Tools

Since you can use AI during exams, you should practice using AI effectively as part of your preparation.

Skills to develop:

• Writing effective prompts for SAP Joule and ChatGPT
• Validating AI-generated suggestions
• Combining AI assistance with SAP documentation
• Using AI to research unfamiliar topics quickly

Reality check: AI is a tool, not a substitute for understanding. Learn to use it as a research assistant, not a crutch.

Step 4: Use Quality Certification Preparation Materials

Now:

The shift to practical exams makes high-quality preparation materials more important than ever.

Look for preparation resources that include:

• ✅ Scenario-based practice exercises
• ✅ Hands-on lab environments
• ✅ Real-world case studies
• ✅ Expert guidance on problem-solving approaches
• ✅ Community support from fellow learners

Our SAP certification preparation materials are specifically designed for this new format, helping you build the practical skills and problem-solving abilities that actually matter in the real world.

The Most In-Demand SAP Certifications for 2026

You might be wondering:

"Which certifications should I pursue first?"

Based on current market demand and the 2027 S/4HANA migration deadline, these certifications offer the best career ROI:

🔥 Top 5 High-Demand Certifications:

1. SAP S/4HANA (all modules) - Organizations rushing to complete migrations by 2027
2. SAP Business Technology Platform (BTP) - Cloud-native development and integration
3. SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC) - Data-driven decision-making capabilities
4. SAP Generative AI Developer - Emerging field with high demand, low supply
5. SAP SuccessFactors - Continued growth in cloud HR solutions

Strategic tip: Combine a core functional/technical certification with an AI-focused certification to maximize your marketability.

Timeline: When These Changes Take Effect

Here's exactly when things are changing:

• ✅ November 2025: Initial rollout begins with selected exams (SAP BTP Administrator, SAP Build Developer)
• 🔄 Mid-January 2026: Most certifications available in new format
• 📅 End of March 2026: All practical exams fully transitioned
• 🚀 Ongoing: Additional AI-focused certifications being released

What to do now:

If you're planning to get certified in 2026, start preparing with the new format in mind. The old "dump-based" study approaches won't work anymore.

Final Thoughts: A Better Way to Prove Your Worth

Here's the bottom line:

SAP's shift to practical, AI-enabled certifications isn't just about keeping up with technology - it's about validating what actually matters in your career.

The old format rewarded people who were good at taking tests.

The new format rewards people who are good at solving real SAP problems.

For experienced SAP professionals, this is fantastic news. Your years of hands-on work now count more than memorization skills.

For newcomers, this means your certification journey will actually prepare you for real consulting work, not just passing a test.

Ready to get started?

The new certification landscape offers unprecedented opportunities for SAP professionals who combine technical expertise with AI capabilities. Whether you're earning your first SAP certification or adding an AI-focused credential to your portfolio, now is the perfect time to invest in your skills.

Explore our comprehensive SAP certification preparation materials designed specifically for the new practical, scenario-based exam format. We'll help you build the hands-on skills and problem-solving abilities that matter in the real world.

Your future SAP career starts with the right preparation. Let's get you certified.