How To Learn SOLIDWORKS: Free vs Paid

If you want to learn SOLIDWORKS, training is essential to unlock its full potential. Between free online videos and forums, and certified professional training programs, it can be difficult to identify the best training option that fits your learning style and budget. In this blog, we compare free SOLIDWORKS training options to paid SOLIDWORKS training options with a focus on GoEngineer’s training options. 

How Long Does it Take to Learn SOLIDWORKS? 

Before we jump into the different ways to learn SOLIDWORKS, you might wonder, “How long does it take to learn SOLIDWORKS?” 

Unfortunately, there isn't a straightforward answer; it all depends on what you’re looking to do with the software. For example, you can learn the basics and start modeling simple shapes in a few hours. Do you want to become a Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional? Earning a CSWP or CSWE Certification can take weeks of learning and practice. 

The most efficient way to learn SOLIDWORKS is by working through examples and progressing through structured training with a knowledgeable professional who can answer questions. This may be through a college course, a GoEngineer SOLIDWORKS training course, or by being mentored by an experienced colleague. Learning SOLIDWORKS takes many forms, and just like any new skill, your abilities will grow the more you practice. A common question people ask is whether it is possible to learn SOLIDWORKS at no cost. 

Can You Learn SOLIDWORKS For Free? 

Of course, it is possible to learn SOLIDWORKS for free, but should you? When scrolling through YouTube, there are countless tutorials, some claiming they can teach you SOLIDWORKS “in five minutes”. Those videos certainly have some truth to them. One explained a lot about the theory of SOLIDWORKS and how you should think about creating your models. However, it didn't explain when you might use a thin feature versus a full-body extrusion and shell feature. It doesn’t explain why you might not want to fully define every feature in an assembly because it hurts performance. 

The bottom line with trying to learn SOLIDWORKS for free is this: you can teach yourself almost anything with YouTube videos, forums, and technical blog posts, but how far will that take you, and will you be completely confident in your skills? 

What tidbits of information are you missing out on by not being able to ask questions from someone who teaches hundreds of people every year and interacts directly with Dassault Systèmes SolidWorks? While it may cost more than a free course, enrolling in a professional class with certified instructors in a structured, consistent environment will save you time and lots of headaches in the long run.

Paid SOLIDWORKS Training Options 

Let’s look at the paid SOLIDWORKS training options. GoEngineer provides a more structured approach to learning and professional guidance for our students. There are three main types of paid SOLIDWORKS training options: In-person, online instructor-led, and supported self-paced training. 

In-person SOLIDWORKS Training 

In-person training is, as the name implies, conducted face-to-face by our instructors in a classroom - ideal for those who prefer a traditional classroom learning experience. All GoEngineer locations are equipped with a training center, and some also include a professional 3D printing lab. Students can interact with peers and ask instructors questions face-to-face. Additionally, students receive a certificate that signifies their proficiency in the content. However, this type of training may require travel and long days away from current projects. If these are issues for you, online instructor-led training or supported self-paced training may be the way to go. 

Online Instructor-Led SOLIDWORKS Training

With online instructor-led training, instructors deliver classes live via Zoom. Students can interact with instructors and peers, get more individual attention, ask questions, and get feedback. It is similar to in-person training but still has the benefits of online learning, like no travel time. Compared to in-person classes, the courses are not truncated. Rather, they are taken in 3-hour blocks, spread out over days. Additionally, students are encouraged to contact the instructor for questions or help with exercises beyond class time. This allows students to continue projects at work while being taught by a certified professional. A certificate is also awarded at the end of these courses.

Supported Self-Paced SOLIDWORKS Training 

Online self-paced learning is an excellent option for those who prefer to learn on their own schedule. With a self-paced program, students have access to pre-recorded videos, quizzes, and assessments that they can complete at their own pace. To access your course, simply log into the GoEngineer Customer Portal and complete it as it fits into your schedule. Track your learning using the built-in quizzes and receive a certificate once the course is completed; very similar to a standard online course. 

We understand that life happens, and sometimes things come up that prevent us from staying on schedule. GoEngineer has a "No Designer Left Behind" goal, which means our Training Team monitors the progress of enrolled students and will reach out if it seems someone is falling behind schedule. 

Each course has a 30-day time limit after starting, but we can work with students who may have extenuating circumstances to ensure they have access to the training beyond the 30-day allotment. Certified SOLIDWORKS Instructors at GoEngineer are available during business hours to assist with any challenges students may face during their course. You may call or even schedule an online “office hours” session to get the help you need. 

Why Choose GoEngineer SOLIDWORKS Training 

While free online video tutorials can be a good starting point for learning SOLIDWORKS, they cannot and should not replace the comprehensive instruction that paid professional SOLIDWORKS training options like GoEngineer provides. With structured learning and experienced instructor support, GoEngineer training provides students with a more effective and efficient way to master SOLIDWORKS.

View SOLIDWORKS Online Training - Free Trial Schedule

Whether students prefer an in-person or online course, GoEngineer delivers exceptional professional training that minimizes the stressors involved in learning new software. With a broad range of classes that cater to different skill levels, there is something for every SOLIDWORKS user. Check out GoEngineer's SOLIDWORKS training courses for comprehensive instruction from industry professionals. 

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