Career roadmap
How to Become an Administrative Assistant
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an administrative assistant, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an administrative assistant: (1) build office skills, (2) consider a short program, (3) get an entry-level role, (4) earn certifications, (5) advance. Most people need about Weeks to months. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an administrative assistant
Build office skills
Get strong at typing, email etiquette and Microsoft Office or Google Workspace.
Consider a short program
Office administration certificates teach business writing, software and records management.
Get an entry-level role
Receptionist, office assistant or temp roles build experience.
Earn certifications
MOS and CAP can raise pay and credibility.
Advance
Move into executive assistant, office manager or operations coordinator roles.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma is typical, plus strong computer and communication skills. Many assistants take a business or office administration certificate, and executive assistants often have college coursework or degrees.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Short-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | Weeks to months |
Certifications and licenses
- CAP (IAAP): Certified Administrative Professional from the International Association of Administrative Professionals.
- Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS): Proves skill in Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
- Google Workspace certification: Shows proficiency with Google’s productivity tools.
- Notary public commission: A useful add-on in many offices; requirements vary by state.
Skills to build now
Start with microsoft 365 or google workspace, calendar and email management, and document formatting and spreadsheets, and practice organization and professional communication. Learning the administrative assistant vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Administrative Assistant: Support teams and managers.
- Senior or Executive Assistant: Support executives and manage complex calendars.
- Office Manager: Run office operations and vendors.
- Operations Coordinator or Chief of Staff: Manage projects and business operations.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Administrative Assistant training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do administrative assistants need a degree?
Usually not. A high school diploma, strong computer skills and professionalism are the core requirements. Some executive assistant roles prefer college coursework.
How long does it take to become an administrative assistant?
Most people need about Weeks to months of training. A high school diploma is typical, plus strong computer and communication skills. Many assistants take a business or office administration certificate, and executive assistants often have college coursework or degrees.
Do you need a degree to be an administrative assistant?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for administrative assistants?
Common credentials include CAP (IAAP), Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS), Google Workspace certification, and Notary public commission. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 43-6014 (Secretaries and administrative assistants, except legal, medical, and executive).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Secretaries and administrative assistants, except legal, medical, and executive (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.