Classroom can take learners from consuming content to earning a certificate after they prove their knowledge. Prepare a PDF with editable fields in Adobe Acrobat Pro so that Classroom can pull in information from the pertinent data fields.
On this page
Building a template
Build a simple certificate template in Microsoft Word or PowerPoint. Hard code course details such as the course name and the number of CEUs the course is worth.
Learner-related data, such as learner name, course completion date, certificate expiration, and license numbers, is merged into the certificate in a later step. Don’t put those details into the document or PowerPoint file.
Saving the certificate as a PDF
- When your certificate document is complete, save it as a PDF.
- Open the PDF in Adobe Acrobat Pro.
Adding merge fields
Merge fields let Classroom take information from registration fields and place it on the certificate before issuing it to the learner. Create a merge field for any information captured in the Registration Fields of Classroom.
- With the new PDF certificate open, select Prepare Form in the tools pane.
- On the next screen, make sure the correct file is selected, then select Start.
- If the message “No new form annotations were detected.” appears, select OK.
- Add a merge field for each piece of learner information. Use the field names in the table that follows for student name, certificate issue date, and expiration date.
| Information | Merge field name |
|---|---|
| Student name | studentName |
| Certificate issue date | certificateDate |
| Expiration date | expirationDate |
For all other fields, such as Company or License Number, the field in Adobe must match exactly how the corresponding Registration Field exists in Classroom.
Formatting merge fields
Select All Properties to stylize how merged information appears on your certificate.
- Appearance tab: Adjust the font and font size.
- Options tab: Adjust the alignment of the text. Center alignment is recommended.
Saving and uploading the PDF
When your PDF is the way you want it, select Close, then select Save. Then upload your certificate to Classroom. For steps, see Classroom - Adding and configuring certificates.