AtCoder Announces Launch of "Algorithm Practical Skills Certification" Visualizing Programming Skills to Foster Advanced IT Talent

AtCoder, which operates programming contests, announced on November 15th the launch of Japan's first practical programming certification exam, the "Algorithm Practical Skills Certification."

AtCoder President Naohiro Takahashi (left) and Vice President Kento Aoki announcing the Algorithm Certification

This certification is expected to prevent hiring mismatches between companies and job seekers, and furthermore, to visualize "the ability to create algorithms from scratch through programming" – a skill difficult to assess with conventional certifications. As demand for highly skilled programmers grows among companies both domestically and internationally, the aim is to foster the creation of advanced IT talent through this certification.

President Takahashi explaining AtCoder's service overview and the significance of the certification

At a press conference, President Takahashi stated, "By establishing a 'standard' that visualizes individuals' programming skills, we aim to provide solutions for domestic companies facing a shortage of highly skilled IT talent, as well as create opportunities for such talent to thrive."

The first "Algorithm Practical Skills Certification" will be held on December 14. Certification levels, based on exam results, are Expert, Advanced, Intermediate, Beginner, and Entry, with a validity period of two years. The exam fee is 8,800 yen for the general public, with applications scheduled to open in late November.

Certification is classified into five levels based on examination results: Expert, Advanced, Intermediate, Beginner, and Entry.

Details can be viewed on the official AtCoder website.