Pearson VUE Acquires Certiport

Pearson VUE, the computer-based testing arm of Pearson, announced the acquisition of Certiport, a leading provider of performance based certification exams and practice test solutions for academic institutions, workforce and corporate technology markets. By joining forces with Certiport, Pearson VUE is furthering its commitment to offering the most robust, end-to-end professional learning and assessment solutions across the globe.

The acquisition of Certiport extends Pearson VUE’s product range and geographic reach. Certiport’s foundational level exams and test preparation materials will help Pearson VUE build relationships with technology professionals early in their academic and professional careers. The acquisition also supports Pearson VUE’s expansion into fast-growing international markets with more than half of Certiport’s revenue coming from outside North America.

As a leading provider of foundational level certification programs from Microsoft, Adobe, HP, CompTIA, AutoDesk, Intuit and other industry-recognized credentials, Certiport has 12,000 Certiport Authorized Testing Centers around the globe and delivers more than two million exams across 150 countries annually.

Bob Whelan, CEO, Pearson VUE said, “Certiport is a successful global assessment business which perfectly complements Pearson VUE's own high-stakes assessment model. We are impressed with the company’s growth, the high caliber of Certiport’s employees, clients, and partners and we look forward to the growth opportunities that will result from this acquisition.”

Headquartered in American Fork, Utah, Certiport is dedicated to helping people excel and succeed through certification. The terms and conditions of all Certiport partner contracts will remain in place. Certiport will continue to operate independently and deliver on the company’s partner-focused business plan, with oversight from Pearson VUE.

“Certiport’s intense focus on customer service, our leading brand recognition in the global assessment and certification market, and our solid financial performance attracted Pearson to our company,” said Ray Kelly, CEO, Certiport. “This well-positioned transaction validates our performance and business strategy, and proves the value that comes with a knowledgeable and skilled employee base. We are excited about the potential for new product offerings and an expanded distribution network our clients and partners will enjoy with new ownership.”

(5.22.12)