The path to becoming a successful virtual assistant (VA) is more accessible than ever — especially with the wide range of high-quality online courses available today. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to specialize in a specific niche, the right course can give you the skills, confidence, and credibility to land your first clients and grow your career.
In this article, we’ll explore the best online courses for aspiring virtual assistants, explain what to look for in a course, and help you choose the one that fits your goals.
Why Take a Virtual Assistant Course?
You don’t need a formal degree to become a VA, but training can accelerate your success. Here’s why an online course is a smart investment:
- Learn proven strategies from experienced VAs
- Gain clarity on services you can offer
- Understand how to find and manage clients
- Build confidence in using popular VA tools
- Get access to templates, contracts, and job leads
- Earn certificates that boost your credibility
Even if you’re self-motivated, structured guidance can save you months of trial and error.
What to Look for in a VA Course
When comparing courses, consider the following:
- Beginner-friendly content
- Covers both hard and soft skills
- Teaches how to find clients
- Offers lifetime access and updates
- Includes real-world examples or templates
- Comes with a supportive community or mentorship
- Offers a certificate of completion
Also, check reviews and testimonials to make sure past students found it helpful and actionable.
Top Online Courses to Become a Virtual Assistant
Here are some of the best, most trusted online courses for VAs — all in English and available globally.
1. 90 Day VA by Esther Inman
- Best for: Beginners looking for a full business foundation
- Covers: Niches, skills, tools, finding clients
- Includes: Templates, contracts, resume help
- Bonus: Active community and job board
- Website: 90dayva.com
This is one of the most comprehensive VA courses with glowing reviews from thousands of students.
2. Freelance University – Virtual Assistant Training
- Best for: Flexible, subscription-based learning
- Offers 80+ courses across admin, tech, and marketing
- Ideal if you want to explore different VA services
- Membership includes live coaching and a private community
- Website: freelanceu.com
Great for those who want to build a full digital business toolbox.
3. The Virtual Savvy – SavvySystem
- Best for: Learning to build and scale a VA business
- Step-by-step system from startup to full-time VA
- Focuses on mindset, skills, branding, and systems
- Offers certification and community support
- Website: thevirtualsavvy.com
Perfect if you’re serious about replacing a full-time income.
4. Udemy – Various Virtual Assistant Courses
- Best for: Affordable, short-format training
- Offers dozens of VA-related courses under $30
- Includes skill-specific training (e.g., Trello, Canva, Asana)
- Look for highly rated instructors like Tina Marie Hilton or Megan Walker
- Website: udemy.com
Budget-friendly option to build skills one course at a time.
5. Skillshare – Freelance & VA Classes
- Best for: Creative and bite-sized lessons
- Learn tools like Canva, Notion, and productivity tips
- Includes short classes on branding, time management, etc.
- Subscription includes all courses
- Website: skillshare.com
Best for those who want to brush up on practical tools or soft skills.
6. LinkedIn Learning – Virtual Assistant Career Path
- Best for: Professionals looking for corporate credibility
- Structured lessons with professional instructors
- Courses on admin support, remote work, communication, and more
- Certificate can be added to LinkedIn profile
- Website: linkedin.com/learning
Ideal if you want to build a VA profile with corporate clients in mind.
Bonus: Free Resources to Get Started
If you’re not ready to invest in a paid course, start with free resources like:
- YouTube channels: search for “how to become a virtual assistant”
- Podcasts: The Virtual Assistant Podcast, The Freelancer’s Podcast
- Blogs: Horkey Handbook, The Virtual Savvy, Smart Passive Income
- Facebook Groups: “Virtual Assistant Savvies,” “Work from Home Moms,” “Freelancing Females”
While free content is great for getting a taste of the VA world, it’s usually not as organized or comprehensive as a paid course.
How to Choose the Right Course for You
Here are 3 key questions to help you decide:
- What’s your budget? – There are quality options under $30 or premium programs for $500+
- Do you want a general foundation or niche training?
- How do you prefer to learn? – Video lessons, live sessions, self-paced?
If you’re not sure, start small. Take one affordable or free course to build momentum, then invest in more advanced training later.
Final Thoughts: Education Is Empowerment
Becoming a virtual assistant can open doors to freedom, flexibility, and financial independence. But like any business, success comes faster when you equip yourself with the right skills and guidance.
Whether you choose a full program like 90 Day VA or take smaller courses on Udemy or Skillshare, the key is to keep learning and taking action.
Your future VA business begins with one step — and the best online courses are ready to walk with you.