AWS (Amazon Web Services) has transformed cloud computing education by offering numerous free courses and resources. If you’re starting your cloud learning journey in 2025, you’re in the right place! The industry has evolved dramatically, and AWS has committed to making cloud education more accessible than ever. In fact, AWS pledged to invest millions of dollars into free training for 29 million learners by 2025. So there are fantastic free options available if you’re aiming to earn certifications, learn new cloud skills or advance your career
In this post, I’ll explore three of the best free AWS cloud courses and the interactive resources that will help you master cloud concepts. You don’t need to break the bank or spend hours searching for the right resources— I’ve done that for you! Here are the top recommendations to get you started.
AWS Free Courses to Jumpstart Your Career
When I was new to AWS, I remember hoping from resource to resource, not knowing where to begin. Fast forward to 2025, and things are much clearer. AWS’s continuous commitment to providing free, high-quality educational content makes now the perfect time to start learning. Read cloud computing careers for more insights into cloud roles.
Let’s dive into the best free AWS cloud courses and learning tools available this year.
AWS Learning Badges: A Structured Path to Cloud Mastery
One of the best places to start your AWS learning journey is with AWS Learning Badges. These badges are designed to help you build a foundation in specific AWS services or domains, providing a structured learning pathway. Unlike full certifications, which can be daunting for beginners, learning badges allow you to focus on smaller goals and expand your skill set gradually.
The great thing about these badges is that they are completely free and can be added to your resume or LinkedIn profile. Employers can easily verify your skills through the unique links associated with each badge, showcasing your dedication to learning AWS.
Some of the most popular AWS badges cover topics like Cloud Essentials, Compute, and Architecting, which are critical for those pursuing a career in cloud computing. As you earn more badges, you’ll build a strong foundation in AWS, enabling you to take on more advanced challenges like full AWS certifications.
For a full list of badges and courses, visit the AWS Learning Badges page. It’s an easy and accessible way to start your cloud journey and develop real-world skills. Read more about the Benefits of Cloud Computing to understand how cloud skills are transforming industries.
AWS Cloud Quest: Learn Cloud Concepts Through Interactive Games
If you prefer hands-on learning, AWS Cloud Quest is an exciting and innovative way to develop your cloud skills. Cloud Quest is a series of online challenges that teach AWS cloud concepts through interactive missions and exercises. You can choose a role—like Solutions Architect—and complete tasks that are directly related to that job, gaining practical, role-specific skills.
The Cloud Quest: Cloud Practitioner course is free, and even completing just this module will give you a solid foundation in cloud computing. After completing the game, you’ll also earn a digital badge that you can display on your LinkedIn profile. The course is self-paced, making it an ideal option for learners with busy schedules.
It’s important to note that while the Cloud Practitioner Quest is free, the other advanced modules require a subscription. However, the free version provides more than enough value for beginners looking to get started with AWS.
AWS Cloud Practitioner Essentials: A Foundational Course
If you’re looking to gain a broad understanding of AWS and the cloud in general, the AWS Cloud Practitioner Essentials course is a must. This is one of AWS’s official foundational courses and is perfect for beginners. The course covers the core concepts of cloud computing, including AWS services, pricing, security, and best practices.
This 7-hour course is available through AWS’s Skill Builder platform, and it’s designed to help you prepare for the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam. Even if you’re not planning to take the exam, this course is invaluable for anyone new to cloud computing.
The Cloud Practitioner Essentials course includes video lessons, hands-on labs, and quizzes that reinforce your understanding of AWS services. Plus, since it’s created by AWS, you’ll always have the most up-to-date information and content—if AWS makes any changes, the course material is updated accordingly.
AWS Educate: Free Learning and Hands-On Labs for Everyone
For those looking for an interactive experience without the risk of incurring costs, AWS Educate is a fantastic resource. While AWS Educate was originally targeted at students, anyone can now create an account and access its free learning materials and hands-on labs.
One of the standout features of AWS Educate is the simulated AWS console, which allows you to practice using AWS services without having to create a billing account. This is ideal for beginners who may be worried about accidentally running up a large bill while learning.
Additionally, AWS Educate has a job board specifically for AWS jobs. Many organizations partner with AWS Educate to provide internships and job opportunities to learners, making this platform a great stepping stone into the cloud industry.
AWS Ramp-Up Guides: Tailored Learning Paths
If you’re not sure where to start or how to specialize, AWS Ramp-Up Guides are an excellent resource. These guides provide curated lists of AWS resources, including training materials, courses, videos, and whitepapers, that are tailored to specific roles, industries, or solutions.
For example, the AWS Solutions Architect Ramp-Up Guide contains resources covering key topics like identity, security, compute, and storage. There’s also a Generative AI Ramp-Up Guide that helps learners dive into the theory and hands-on practices of generative AI using AWS services.
These guides ensure that you are learning the most relevant and up-to-date information for your chosen career path. Following a ramp-up guide is an efficient way to organize your learning and stay on track.
Free Live AWS Training: Learn from Cloud Experts in Real-Time
One of the lesser-known resources available from AWS is its free live training sessions. These sessions are held each month and include topics like AWS training days, exam readiness workshops, and even live streams on Twitch.
The benefit of live training is that you can ask questions in real-time and engage directly with AWS instructors and fellow learners. These sessions are typically recorded as well, so you can always refer back to them later if needed.
If you’re someone who learns best through interaction, AWS’s live training sessions are a great way to stay motivated and engaged while progressing through your learning journey.
Main Questions
What is the best free AWS course for beginners?
The AWS Cloud Practitioner Essentials course is ideal for beginners. It provides a comprehensive overview of AWS services and cloud concepts, making it a great starting point.
Can I earn AWS certifications for free?
While the exams typically have a cost, you can prepare for certifications using free resources like AWS Learning Badges and Cloud Quest.
Are AWS Learning Badges useful for careers?
Yes, AWS Learning Badges demonstrate specific skills to employers and can be added to your LinkedIn profile or resume.
How long does it take to complete AWS Cloud Practitioner Essentials?
The course is about 7 hours long, but it is self-paced, so you can complete it according to your own schedule.
Is AWS Educate only for students?
No, AWS Educate is available to everyone. It offers free learning materials and hands-on labs without needing a billing account.
What are AWS Ramp-Up Guides?
AWS Ramp-Up Guides are curated resources designed to help you specialize in a particular AWS domain, like solutions architecture or generative AI.
AWS Free Courses Are A Stepping Stone
AWS’s commitment to providing high-quality, free learning resources has made cloud education more accessible than ever. Whether you’re earning AWS Learning Badges, exploring AWS Cloud Quest, or completing the Cloud Practitioner Essentials course, you have everything you need to start building a cloud computing career.
Each of these resources is designed to help you acquire foundational knowledge, gain practical experience, and advance your cloud skills. With no need to invest in expensive boot camps or training programs, you can learn at your own pace and budget. For more details on how to get certified, check out the AWS Certifications Guide.
Explore the free resources above and begin building your future in cloud computing.
Stay Clouding!