A Step by Step Guide on How to Get an Oracle Certified Associate Java SE 11 Programmer I (OCAJP)

java certification

Overview of the Certification

Java SE 11 is one of the toughest exams that Oracle has designed at the developer level. It is decidedly tougher than OCAJP 8. Some programmers who have attempted the question venture so far as to say that it is on par with, if not harder, than OCPJP 8. Several informal surveys of test-takers have yielded one common statement – Java Module System is one of the toughest areas to crack in OCAJP 11. Most aspirants who are attempting the certification find it difficult to answer the questions since most Java developers don’t have extensive experience working with modules.

The questions themselves have gotten tougher too. Oracle has shifted the focus to a deeper understanding of the concepts and how they can be applied. This shift made the questions deeper, and therefore, tougher. Because the exam has multiple choice questions as well, it becomes difficult to choose the right answer if you’re not well-versed with the concepts in the exam.

There is one critical change to the certifications that individuals need to be aware of – Oracle has retired the title “Oracle Certified Associate Java Programmer.” This means that individuals will not get the certification if they attempt OCAJP 11. In fact, they won’t get any certification at all.

This holds for Oracle Certified Professional Java Programmer (OCPJP) as well. Instead of that title, Oracle has created Oracle Certified Java Developer. However, you’ll be eligible for this certification only if you clear Oracle’s Java SE 11 Programmer I and II. Previously Java SE 11 Programmer II was called Oracle Certified Professional Java Programmer 2. This was the second level exam. Oracle combined this to create an ‘Oracle Certified Java Developer.’

Is This Course Right for You?

Not much has changed from OCAJP 8 for Programmer I. For any individual who wants to upgrade from any certification above Java SE 6, can attempt 1Z0-817, Upgrade OCP Java 6, 7 & 8 to Java SE 11 Developer exam. They can give this single exam and upgrade to Java SE 11.

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What are the Benefits of Java Certification?

Java certification, by itself, does not guarantee a job or a pay hike. In many cases, a java certification is proof that a candidate has java knowledge. Some benefits of the certification are

  • It is one of the most recognized certifications in the world. 
  • Java Programmer certification will be positive for your career.
  • Improves and update your knowledge of the Java Language, while at the same time getting it validated with a credential highly recognized by the software development community.
  • This gives you confidence and that confidence translates into better career prospects
  • Generally, Associate and Professional level Java certifications are regarded as proof of knowledge of Java programming and Expert level Java Certifications are regarded as proof of specific areas of Java technology stack such as EJB, JPA, Web Services, and Servlet/JSP. 

What are the Eligibility Criteria and Recommended Experience?

Oracle has not placed any restrictions or eligibility criteria for attempting this exam. However, Oracle does recommend

  • Minimum of 12 to 18 months of experience with Java. 
  • Knowledge of general programming concepts and techniques.
  • Experience with any programming language

In addition to

  • Writing programs in Java.
  • Use of Java IDE.
  • Package and deploy Java apps.

Oracle also suggests that individuals complete any of the following courses to prepare for the exam. This, of course, is completely optional and depends on the candidates themselves.

  • Java SE: Programming I Ed 2
  • Java Programming Learning Subscription
  • Core Java Learning Subscription
  • Unlimited Product Learning Subscription
  • Java SE Programming I MOOC

A combination of Oracle training and on-field experience is useful for preparing for the exam.

What are the Certification Details for Java SE 11 Programmer?

  • The exam code is 1Z0-815
  • The exam’s delivery channel is through Pearson VUE
  • The duration of the exam is 180 minutes
  • There is a total of 80 questions – multiple-choice
  • The passing score is 63%
  • The exam costs $245 – no exam voucher needed
  • While the certification never expires, you’ll always be known by the version. So if you clear this and Java SE 11 Programmer II (1Z0-816) exams, you will be a Java SE 11 Developer even if newer versions come
  • There is a mandatory waiting period of 14 days if you fail the exam

Most OCA and OCP exam vouchers have a free retake option. You can use that option after 14 days to retake the exam. Refer to Oracle’s exam guidelines for more information.

What is the Syllabus for Oracle’s Java SE 11 Programmer I 1Z0-815 exam?

For a comprehensive breakup for the syllabus, please refer to this link. The overall syllabus covers the following:

  • Understanding Java Technology and environment
  • Creating a Simple Java Program
  • Working With Java Primitive Data Types and String APIs
  • Using Operators and Decision Constructs
  • Working with Java Arrays
  • Describing and Using Objects and Classes
  • Creating and Using Methods
  • Applying Encapsulation

What are the Benefits of Java Certification?

Java certification, by itself, does not guarantee a job or a pay hike. In many cases, a java certification is proof that a candidate has java knowledge. Some benefits of the certification are

  • It is one of the most recognized certifications in the world. 
  • Java Programmer certification will be positive for your career.
  • Improves and update your knowledge of the Java Language, while at the same time getting it validated with a credential highly recognized by the software development community.
  • This gives you confidence and that confidence translates into better career prospects
  • Generally, Associate and Professional level Java certifications are regarded as proof of knowledge of Java programming and Expert level Java Certifications are regarded as proof of specific areas of Java technology stack such as EJB, JPA, Web Services, and Servlet/JSP. 

What is the Salary for Java SE 11 1Z0-815 Programmer

To reiterate, both 1Z0-815 and 1Z0-816 have been combined under a blanket certification title of Oracle Certified Professional Java SE 11 Developer. The salary for a certified Java developer ranges between $79000 and $105000. The average salary is about $93000

Where to Get Online Resources for Java Certification?

Oracle’s learning platform has access to several practice tests, study guides, and other resources. Apart from that, several websites like Udemy, Edureka, Edex, Coursera, and Online Training offer training and preparatory classes for Java Programmer I and II exams.