7 Best Virtual Assistant Courses Online 2024: (Free & Paid)

Did you know that the number of virtual assistants in the U.S. is projected to reach 1.9 million by 2024? It’s a booming field with vast opportunities!

So, if you are eyeing the world of virtual assistance, who could blame you? Besides being one of the easiest online jobs to start, it offers remarkable flexibility and, with experience and specialization, can be quite lucrative.

A virtual assistant job might be exactly what you’ve been looking for if you dream of working from home or traveling the world.

But let’s face it – diving into the realm of virtual assistance isn’t a walk in the park. Below are six of the best courses available online if you’re interested in becoming a virtual assistant.

From free to paid courses, these courses will prepare you for success in the virtual assistance industry.

Now, let’s explore the path to becoming a virtual assistant together, shall we?

Let’s start by understanding what virtual assistants are before we jump in.

Content Outline

Is virtual assistant training an absolute necessity?

Well, not necessarily, but let me put it this way – it could be your shortcut to saving a ton of time.

Sure, the internet is a vast sea of knowledge, and you can, in theory, figure out almost anything through trial and error. The challenge lies in sifting through the clutter and hoping you’re on a path that actually works. This is where a well-structured course can be a game-changer. Isnt?

Investing in a proven course streamlines your learning curve, helps you avoid costly mistakes, and gets you earning faster – a significant advantage, especially if your online work experience is limited.

Remember, there are two critical components to becoming a successful virtual assistant:

Mastering the Skills: Whether it’s managing emails, making presentations, or any specific service you offer.
Running Your Business: Knowing how to find clients, market your services, and manage the operational side of your virtual assistant business.

You’re already halfway there if you know your skills. The best skills won’t make you successful if your business is like a ghost town.

Therefore, choosing the right virtual assistant course is key. Some courses cover both the essential VA skills and the business aspects, while others focus solely on the business side of the equation.

Consider your proficiency in the two areas and pick a course that aligns with your needs and goals. It’s not just about acquiring skills; it’s about learning how to turn those skills into a thriving virtual assistant business.

Top 7 Best Virtual Assistant Courses Online in 2024

Here are the best virtual assistant courses that you should consider getting:

1. The SavvySystem

I’ve tried quite a few courses on becoming a Virtual Assistant and wasn’t sure what to expect from The Savvy System. After going through the entire course, I want to give you the lowdown – the good and the not-so-good. Let’s break it down.

The Savvy System is an online program by Abbey Ashley, with 80 classes teaching you how to work from home as a Virtual Assistant.

It used to be called Virtual Savvy Bootcamp. The course has been around since 2016 and has helped over 4,500 students start their own home-based businesses. It’s got some recognition from NBC News, Boss Mom, and Teachable, making it one of the top courses for virtual assistants.

What makes The Savvy System special is that it covers everything about being a successful VA, from the basics to advanced stuff like hiring and building your own team of VAs. It’s not a quick fix but a comprehensive guide to help you through your entire journey as a virtual assistant.

One cool thing is that you get lifetime access to their community and coaching, making it more than just a one-time course. So, if you’re looking for a course that takes you beyond the basics and supports you along the way, The Savvy System could be the right choice.

The SavvySystem Lesson Content

When you enroll in the SavvySystem, you’ll explore:
Launching your VA business
Navigating the niche decision
Crafting and pricing your services strategically
Acquiring clients effectively
Establishing your brand identity (logo, business name, etc.)
Understanding the legal aspects of business ownership (taxes, EIN, insurance, etc.)
Implementing an efficient work process
Marketing yourself with a detailed plan
From website inception to design and management
Building and hiring your own team
Scaling your business and adjusting prices as you grow

Pros:

Comprehensive Coverage: The Savvy System covers all the steps from beginners to experienced virtual assistants.
Easy to Follow: Organized into three main phases – Launch, Grow, and Scale – making it easy to follow.
Video-Based Learning: Quality, video-based lessons suitable for visual learners.
Addresses Missing Topics: Covers aspects like taxes, setting up a website, health insurance, and mindset obstacles often missed in other courses.
Inclusive: Suitable for both men and women, those in the U.S. and internationally.
Template Vault: Offers a Template Vault with over 25 scripts for various client interactions.
Tools for Success: Provides checklists, contracts, and tracking tools to keep students on track.
Job Leads: Exclusive Facebook group offers job leads and opportunities.
Website Setup Guidance: Guides on setting up a virtual assistant website.
Money-Back Guarantee: 30-day money-back guarantee, no questions asked.
Flexibility: Suitable for both side hustlers and those looking for full-time opportunities.

Cons:

Time-Consuming: The course requires dedicated time to complete.
Basic Tech Skills Required: Requires basic computer skills for online work.
Higher Price: Relatively expensive, with a basic cost of $1497, but a payment plan is available.

Pricing Plans

SavvySystem offers three different pricing tiers for their virtual assistant (VA) training program: Lite, Pro, and Ultimate.

1. Lite

Cost: $997 or 12 payments of $97

Features:

14 step-by-step modules
The VA Toolbox
The VA Template Vault
Milestones/Gameboard/Merch
Drag & Drop VA Portfolio
Proposals That Win Training
Unlimited Proposal Reviews
Group Coaching And Support
Private VA Online Community
Mega Crazy Swipe File
Unlimited Technical Support
Savvy Your Site Training
Tech Live Group-Coaching
Abbey Ashley’s Discovery Call Demo
Lifetime Access To Savvy Vault
80+ Tech Training Courses

2. Pro

Cost: $1497 or 12 payments of $147

Features:

All Lite features
Business coaching and accountability
Tech-training support

3. Ultimate

Cost: $2997 or 12 payments of $297

Features:

All Pro features
Tech-training support

The Lite tier is a good option for those who are self-motivated and don’t need a lot of hand-holding. The Pro tier is a good option for those who want some business coaching and accountability.

The Ultimate tier is the best option for those who want everything the program has to offer, including business coaching, tech-training support, and lifetime access to the Savvy Vault.

2. 90 Day VA

After going through the 90-Day VA program, I can confidently say it equips you with everything you need to kickstart your virtual assistant business in 90 days or less. Esther Inman’s course is a budget-friendly alternative to SavvySystem, offering comprehensive training.

The program is designed to guide you through launching your business, choosing services, marketing yourself, and more, ensuring you start landing clients within the first 90 days.

What sets 90 Day VA apart is its focus on using social media to scale your business, providing unique strategies not found in other courses.

It’s an excellent choice for current or aspiring VAs aiming to establish and grow their business quickly, especially if you want to enhance your online presence through social media. The course covers both business-building and skill development, offering a well-rounded training experience.

The main emphasis is on using your existing skills to start earning money promptly. For those seeking advanced specialization, Esther recently introduced the “skills shop,” allowing you to choose specific skills for further expertise.

This approach prevents overwhelm, letting you focus on mastering one skill and still making a substantial income. Additionally, 90 Day VA offers a free training course to help you dip your toes into the world of becoming a VA who works from anywhere.

If you’re interested in specializing in tech VA, Esther also has another course called Tech VA in a Day, which you can explore for more targeted training.

90 Day VA Lesson Content:

Content marketing, blogging, and copywriting are covered in-depth.
Social media management, including platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest, is part of the curriculum.
Skills in podcast editing and management are taught for those interested in audio content.
Video editing techniques are included to enhance multimedia capabilities.
Email marketing strategies are covered to master this essential communication tool.
Lite web management skills are introduced for a foundational understanding.
Executive assistant tasks and responsibilities are part of the comprehensive training.
Soft skills are emphasized to enhance overall professionalism and effectiveness.
Networking strategies and job-finding techniques are explored.
Pricing your services is addressed to ensure fair compensation for your skills.
Legalities, including tax and insurance considerations, are covered for a well-rounded business understanding.

Pros of 90-Day VA:

Active private community for support.
Practical and step-by-step training.
Comprehensive coverage across multiple courses.
Esther Inman is perceived as authentic.
Transparent and ethical marketing practices.
Abundance of bonus materials.
Regular job opportunities shared in the community.

Cons of 90-Day VA:

Shorter and somewhat complex refund policy.
Lack of search functionality for specific lessons.
Some lessons may be overly lengthy.

Pricing Plans:

To enroll in the 90-day VA training, you have two payment options:

One-time payment of $797

Six monthly payments of $147, totaling $882.

Both options provide lifetime access to the course and a six-month membership in the Facebook group. After this period, you can continue Facebook group access for $49 per month or pay $199 for a yearly membership.

It is important to note that additional fees may apply to tools or software recommended in the training, despite Esther’s emphasis on free options. Your business efficiency can be enhanced by investing a few hundred dollars in premium tools.

3. Virtual Excellence Academy

I researched the best virtual assistant courses and found the Virtual Excellence Academy to be an excellent choice for anyone wanting to become a freelance virtual assistant.

With a high rating of 4.6/5, it’s one of the top VA courses available. Hannah Dixon, the creator, has designed a program that’s just right – not too basic and not too expensive.

Right now, they’re offering a big $600 discount on the Legacy Edition, so grab the opportunity. The Virtual Excellence Academy provides thorough training that focuses on real and sustainable income without relying on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr.

What makes it special is the strong emphasis on community through the Inner Circle, which offers ongoing support, networking opportunities, and a sense of belonging.

With lifetime access to the community and a commitment to inclusion and diversity, it really feels like the perfect place for anyone starting out in virtual assistance.

Plus, Hannah’s free resources, including a startup guide and a 5-day Virtual Assistant Challenge, make it even more appealing for those looking to get their VA career started.

Virtual Excellence Academy Lesson Content:

Workspace Mastery: Comprehensive guidance on setting up and optimizing your virtual assistant workspace.
Skill Identification: Strategies to identify and leverage existing VA skills for business success.
Portfolio Perfection: Step-by-step process for creating a professional and appealing VA portfolio.
Client Magnetism: Tips for relationship marketing to attract and retain clients effectively.
Discovery Call Mastery: Techniques to master discovery calls for successful client acquisition.
Pro Onboarding: Strategies for onboarding clients professionally and efficiently.
Financial Expertise: Insights into pricing, invoicing, and ensuring timely payments.
Networking Prowess: Techniques to network effectively and establish a strong professional presence.
Content Marketing: Guidance on creating compelling content to market your VA business.
Tool Proficiency: Recommendations and insights into tools for copywriting, graphic design, audio, and video editing.
Graphic Design for VAs: Specialized training in graphic design tailored for virtual assistants.
Income Diversification: Strategies to elevate your career with additional income streams.

Legacy Edition Extras:

Get Clients Now Course: Specialized course for acquiring clients efficiently.
Rapid Breakthrough Therapy: a 21-day program for personal and professional development.
Resource Kits: WordPress Beginners Kit, The Podcast VA Kit, and Contracts Bundle.
Mastery Workshops: Twitter Mastery, Sales and Marketing Mastery, Niching Your Business, and Client Experience 101.
Network Bundle: Facebook Network Bundle for expanding your professional connections.

Pros:

Certification: Offers certification as a Virtual Assistant.
Comprehensive Training: Provides in-depth and thorough training.
Positive Reviews: Backed by numerous positive reviews.
Active Community: Engages users through an active Facebook group.
Lifetime Access: Grants lifetime access with free updates.

Cons:

No Refunds: Adheres to a no-refund policy.
Limited Enrollment: Not always open for enrollment.

Pricing Plans:

Virtual Excellence Academy Plans:

1. Signature Program – $900:

30+ Videos, 9 Modules
Lifetime access to Virtual Excellence Academy materials and updates
BONUS 1: Get Clients Now Course
BONUS 2: Rapid Breakthrough Therapy 21-day program
Discounts on future DNK products, events, and experiences

Ideal for most Virtual Assistants, providing comprehensive training and essential tools for freelance success.

2. Legacy Edition – $1300:

Includes everything from the Signature Program
Podcast Management Kit full course
WordPress Kit full course
Contracts+ Bundle
Twitter Mastery
Sales & Marketing Mastery Workshop
Niching Masterclass
Facebook Networking Bundle
Lifetime access to all included courses and workshops
Discounts on future DNK products

Suited for those seeking additional guidance on WordPress setup, podcast management, and advanced marketing strategies, offering comprehensive insights for a successful freelance business.

4. Fully Booked VA

Fully Booked VA is designed to guide individuals, especially beginners, in launching their freelance virtual assistant business.

As a virtual assistant, you’ll be working online, supporting businesses with various tasks like managing emails, posting on social media, or handling website content.

Gina, the course creator, promises to provide the confidence and a clear step-by-step process to transform existing skills into a profitable VA business. The goal is to secure the first paying client within 90 days.

While it’s pitched as ideal for beginners, Gina’s focus on niche specialization suggests that even those with prior VA experience can benefit. This platform assures lifetime support, coaching, and a systematic approach to becoming a #FullyBooked Virtual Assistant.

Fully Booked VA Lesson Content

Fully Booked VA is a structured three-step course: Start (VA Foundations), Build (VA Foundations exam and certification), and Scale (six specialized skills courses).

Each step must be completed sequentially. VA Foundations covers topics like business launch, client finding, efficient work processes, legalities, and marketing. After completion, you earn the Horkey HandBook Certification.

The third part includes six skills courses: Freelance Writing, Real Estate, Email Management, Social Media, Project Management, and Virtual Assistant Agency.

Bonuses include 90 days access to a members-only FBVA Facebook group, weekly coaching, bi-weekly deep-dive trainings, and exclusive VA job leads.

Pricing Plans

For full access to the Fully Booked VA training, you have two options: a one-time payment of $997 or six payments of $197, totaling $1182. Both options provide lifetime access to the course and 12 months of community and support access.

After the initial 12 months, there’s an additional cost of $497 for another year of community and support access, with the option to cancel at any time.

It’s important to note that setting up and running your VA business may require an additional budget, though these expenses are considered minimal.

Pros:

Legit student success stories readily available.
Access to an active and helpful private community.
Comprehensive, practical, and step-by-step training.
Gina Horkey is perceived as genuine.
Transparent and ethical marketing practices.
Abundance of content templates provided.
Weekly live group calls for ongoing support.

Cons:

Lack of information on additional expenses beyond the training price on the sales page.
Refund policy is slightly more complex than preferred.
Limited free access to the community.

5. VA Foundry (Launch in 30 Days)

I discovered ‘The Sam + Jo VA Show’ podcast, and after studying about it in detail, I can confidently say that it will surely be a game-changer for you in your journey as a virtual assistant.

The 7 Step Start-Up Formula they offer will turn your work-from-home aspirations into a reality.

From the comprehensive 2024 VA Business Planner to the handy Pricing Calculator, these tools have kept me organized and confident in setting my rates even as a blogger.

The step-by-step guide for launching a VA business in 30 days is surely the best for future VA’s and the essential website template added a professional touch.

After, the 30 day course, you also have the option to join the Mastermind for advanced growth. The private coaching sessions will surely be instrumental in overcoming hurdles. If you’re venturing into the virtual assistant world, I highly recommend checking out this course.

Top reasons I recommend taking the mastermind from The VA foundry:-

Supportive Group Coaching: Experience personalized guidance with live group coaching sessions and monthly themed discussions. Their approach is tailored to your unique business needs, providing invaluable insights every step of the way.

Weekly Accountability: Hit your targets with precision! Benefit from weekly intention setting and accountability check-ins within our exclusive Members-Only Facebook Group. Stay focused and on track toward achieving your goals.

Actionable Resources: Unlock the power of their comprehensive Vault! It’s packed with templates, checklists, how-to guides, and videos – everything you need to scale and elevate your virtual assistant business. Access the resources that matter most for your growth journey.

Launch in 30 Days Lesson Content:

Launch in 30 Days Overview: Learn the essentials of business launch, including branding, client acquisition, and legal considerations.

Unique Strategy: While addressing familiar topics, the course employs a distinctive and hands-on strategy, featuring multiple live calls each week.

Personalized Attention: Only 30 students per cohort, ensuring a personalized approach from experts, reducing the chances of getting stuck.

Live Cohort Advantage: The live cohort format provides real-time support, making it nearly impossible to encounter challenges without expert guidance.

Proactive Engagement Required: As a live program, timely commitment is crucial; procrastination isn’t an option. Immediate readiness for active participation is key to maximizing the course’s value.

Pros:

Live Expert Support: Benefit from live assistance provided by two experts multiple times each week.
Personalized Attention: Small cohorts ensure more individualized attention for participants.
Community Bonding: Smaller groups foster a closer-knit community among virtual assistants.
Tailored for Aussies and Kiwis: Specifically designed to cater to the needs of Australians and New Zealanders.

Cons:

Limited Access: Access to course material is restricted, emphasizing the need for prompt action.
Non-relevant Information for Non-Australians/Kiwis: Some content may be less applicable if you’re from a different country.

Full Course: $1,797 NZD (~$1,125 USD) or $660 NZD payment plan.

DIY Version: I would suggest that it is more suitable and affordable for self-learners, offering the same training material minus calls and community.

6. Work From Home as a VA from Udemy

If you’re new to the idea of being a virtual assistant and want a beginner-friendly guide, this Udemy course is a great choice.

Tina Marie Hilton is the instructor of the course, and it has enrolled 5,684 students thus the credibility of the course can be known from the enormous number of enrollments.

It helps you understand the basics of being a virtual assistant and how to begin, making it suitable for those curious about the VA business. It is best to learn the ins and outs of launching your independent business, offering services through online technology.

Keep in mind that it doesn’t go into as much detail as more advanced courses, but it’s a solid starting point for dipping your toes into the virtual assistance world.

Work from Home as a VA Lesson Content

Assess if a virtual assistant role aligns with your goals
Understand essential steps before starting your business
Establish business policies for long-term success
Master the art of setting competitive rates
Ready your business for a successful launch
Develop streamlined processes for day-to-day operations
Successfully launch and operate your home-based business.

Pros:

Affordable option suitable for beginners
Great for getting started in the VA field.

Cons:

It is not comprehensive; it may not be suitable if you are committed to pursuing a more in-depth course.

Price: $30 and there is 30 days of refund.

7. Meet InDemand VA

Meet InDemand VA—a fantastic 8-week program crafted for ambitious women like me who are eager to break free from constraints and build their dream life.

Imagine the joy of giving my VA dreams the respect they deserve and turning them into reality! Over 280 fierce and fabulous ladies have already successfully launched their VA business with the help of InDemand VA, and I could be next!

Many women, like myself, face challenges in figuring out how to transform their hard-earned skills into a VA lifestyle that aligns with the life they desire.

Course Content:

PHASE 1: Cultivating Your In-Demand Vision & Mindset

MODULE 1: Understanding the role of a virtual assistant

MODULE 2: Developing a boss mindset

PHASE 2: Establish the 4Ps (Passion, Profit, Packaging, & Protection)

MODULE 3: Finding your niche

MODULE 4: Define your passion, rates, packages, and protect your business with a contract

PHASE 3: Build Your VA Systems

MODULE 5: Streamline your business with systems

MODULE 6: Develop your lead workflow

PHASE 4: Get Booked Out as an InDemand VA

MODULE 7: Market your business, perfect your pitch, and build your remote resume

MODULE 8: Master discovery calls and seamlessly onboard new clients

Pricing Plans:

1. Course Access Only:

Price: $997

8 core modules with the signature framework
Bite-sized trainings and tutorials for easy implementation
Lifetime access, including future updates
Exclusive template library
Over 20 pre-recorded guest expert training
Frequently Asked Questions bonus module

2. Course + 1 Coaching Call:

Price: $1,494

Everything included in the Course Access Only option
(1) private coaching call with Saba, scheduled within 90 days for accountability
7 days post-call support + personalized feedback requests
Limited spots are available each quarter for those seeking 1:1 support

Pros:

Exclusive program designed for ambitious women
8-week duration for a comprehensive learning experience
Focus on building a dream life as a virtual assistant
Signature framework with clear phases and modules
Over 280 successful graduates
Emphasis on mindset cultivation and CEO skills
Lifetime access to course content and future updates
Access to an exclusive template library
Bonus module with frequently asked questions
Option for additional 1:1 coaching for personalized support

Cons:

The program may be more tailored to women
Pricing might be on the higher side for some individuals

Quick Links:

Conclusion: Best Virtual Assistant Courses Online 2024

With the right resources, mentorship, and dedication, you can unlock your full potential as a VA. You only need to Choose the right virtual assistant (VA) course based on your goals and requirements.

I would highly recommend you check the syllabus, instructor experience, and community support. Also, considering the feedback from past or present students is a wonderful tip.

The list of 7 best VA courses is comprehensive and can help you make an informed choice. It is important to research the course thoroughly to ensure that it is the right fit.

Finally, don’t forget to ask questions and contact the instructors to get a better understanding of the course.

Investing in your education is an investment in your future. With the proper VA training, you can create a world of possibilities and build a successful virtual assistant career.

Is virtual assistant training an absolute necessity?