Here's the lowdown on the new Xero certification. It's clearer, faster, and fits around real work. Let me explain what's changing, why it matters, and how to get started ...
New Xero certification, A symbol of growth, Endless possibilities
I've been waiting for a training pathway that respects busy schedules, and the new Xero certification finally delivers on that promise.From the 1st of October 2025, there's a clear three-step framework that builds steadily:
Level 1 - Xero Certified Associate in around 12 hours,
Level 2 - Xero Certified Professional in about 45 hours,
Level 3 - Xero Certified Specialist, coming in 2026 with a 78-hour programme.
What I appreciate the most is that learners can choose how they study at each level, whether through self-paced digital courses, live webinars, or, for those already confident, proceeding directly to the assessment without having to sit through content they already know.
I feel that the assessments are now practical and separate from learning, requiring real tasks in the demo company, which means the badge genuinely reflects capability, not just theory.
The specialism badges will help practitioners stand out in high‑value areas, with payroll launching first on 1st of October 2025 and more industry‑focused options to follow as the programme expands.
Xero tell me that your current certified status will automatically map to Level 2 on the 1st of October 2025, and anyone with a current payroll certification will receive the new payroll specialism badge, with both new credentials expiring on the 30th of September 2026 to give a whole year to plan ahead.
CPD or CPE points are awarded when learning is completed and the assessment is passed, whether on-demand or live. Taking only the evaluation won't generate points, so it's worth scheduling the learning alongside the exam.
Recertification is now simpler!
With just one annual assessment for the highest level held, tracked on a rolling 12‑month cycle from the certification date to keep things predictable.A practical next step: map current skills to the levels, decide whether to learn or test out, and consider adding payroll as a first specialism while planning for additional badges as they arrive.
This is the moment to shape a lean, focused learning plan; the new Xero certification is designed to fit real practice life while signalling clear, marketable expertise.
This will help reassure your bookkeeping clients and even your peers, too.
If anything I've written in this blog post resonates with you and you'd like to discover more about the new Xero certification, it may be a great idea to give me a call on 01604 420057 and let's see how I can help you.
Alison loves bookkeeping and supporting bookkeepers. She has been helping clients to be better bookkeepers in Sage 50 for over 24 years and has been Xero Accredited in accounts and payroll for a number of years too.
She specialises in a very unique hand-holding method of training, helping bookkeepers and business owners to use their accounts software as and when they need support in setting up and producing their invoices, reports and financial information.
Alison combines her role at Silicon Bullet with her Forever Living network marketing businesses and is often to be seen at business networking meetings as she likes to keep busy.
You know what they say: if you want something done well ask a busy person!
The usual question I see asked in bookkeeping groups and forums is, where can I find customers, or how can I get experience now that I have passed my bookkeeping exams and started my bookkeeping business ......
Here's the Sage 50 accounts and payroll subscription changes in plain English. Direct prices rose earlier, partner-billed rises land later. Learn how timing and route to purchase affect your bill ......
The Etsy app for Xero helps side hustlers automate sales, fees, and taxes, cutting administration and accounting errors. It turns messy payouts into clear records. It's a smart, simple boost for your bookkeeping ......
The 2025 Autumn Budget arrived with its usual mix of political theatre and careful phrasing, but beneath the headlines sit several changes that every bookkeeper should be aware of ......
AI bank reconciliation in Xero promises faster month-end with automation and human review. It can streamline matching while maintaining oversight. Here's what to consider before switching it on, because I wonder if it is a go...
Many small business owners attempt DIY bookkeeping to save costs and maintain control. Yet, this path can be daunting. Learn how you can manage your finances more effectively with my Bookkeeping Buddy subscription, ensuring y...
I created my Bookkeeping Buddy community last year to offer a higher level of support to bookkeepers across the country, and it really has turned into a community. At a recent Accountex London exhibition, two of my Bookkeepin...
You may have already done the difficult part of starting your own bookkeeping business; you've found clients, you've decided on your pricing, and now you're getting on with the day-to-day of looking after the clients you've ....
Invest in your IT with a clear 2026 roadmap. Align digital strategy to goals, prioritise value, and modernise securely. Turn technology from cost to c ...
The madness of spending billions on AI startups raises alarm over staggering valuations and the implications for society. Many of these companies focu ...
Knowing your numbers is essential for any founder looking to steer their business effectively. Financial literacy is not simply an administrative task ...
Most chatbots are brilliant at answering questions ... and absolutely terrible at turning those conversations into real leads. YourBOT doesn't make th ...
