In today’s fast-paced world of engineering and product design, SolidWorks remains a leading 3D CAD platform, trusted by professionals across industries for modeling, simulation, and technical documentation. As we move through 2025, the demand for SolidWorks expertise continues to grow, especially in fields like aerospace, automotive, consumer electronics, and medical device design.

This surge in demand is clear in the job market. Roles like Mechanical Design Engineer, CAD Technician, and Product Developer often require SolidWorks proficiency, and even freelancers are tapping into global opportunities by offering modeling services online.

At the same time, SolidWorks is becoming more accessible than ever. Thanks to cloud-based solutions like Vagon Computer, users can now run SolidWorks on almost any device, removing the need for expensive hardware and making high-performance CAD work flexible and remote-friendly.

Whether you’re just starting out, advancing your career, or building your own product, learning SolidWorks is a smart investment. In this guide, we’ll highlight the top courses, platforms, and communities to help you get there.

What to Look For in a SolidWorks Course

With so many SolidWorks courses available online in 2025, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re just getting started. Whether you’re aiming for certification, brushing up your skills for a new role, or diving into 3D modeling as a creative pursuit, the key is finding a course that fits your goals, experience level, and learning style.

First, consider your skill level. Beginners should look for courses that start with the basics, interface navigation, sketching, and 3D part modeling, before moving into more advanced assemblies and simulations. If you already have experience, you might want a course focused on specialized features like motion studies, surface modeling, or preparation for the Certified SolidWorks Associate (CSWA) or Professional (CSWP) exams.

Certification is another important factor. Courses that align with SolidWorks’ official certification paths can add credibility to your resume and help you stand out in job applications. Many platforms offer completion certificates, but not all are equally recognized, so it’s worth checking if the course is designed to prepare you for real-world industry standards.

Practical, project-based learning is a must. The best SolidWorks courses don’t just show you what buttons to click, they guide you through building real products, solving design problems, and developing a working portfolio. This hands-on approach helps cement your understanding and gives you something to showcase to potential clients or employers.

Also, think about format and flexibility. Some learners thrive in structured, instructor-led environments, while others prefer self-paced videos they can rewind and revisit. Bonus points if the course provides downloadable files or access to SolidWorks student licenses.

Finally, consider the community and support behind the course. Is there a discussion board, Discord group, or live Q&A with the instructor? Being able to ask questions and troubleshoot problems can make a huge difference in your learning journey.

Now that we know what makes a SolidWorks course truly valuable, let’s dive into the best options available in 2025.

Best Online SolidWorks Courses in 2025

Whether you’re learning SolidWorks from scratch or looking to upgrade your skillset with certification-level training, there’s a wide range of online courses tailored to different needs and experience levels. Below, we’ve handpicked the top SolidWorks courses of 2025, covering everything from beginner-friendly tutorials to advanced modeling workflows.

#1. Complete Solidworks Beginners Course – Udemy 🔗

Taught by bestselling CAD author and corporate trainer Jaiprakash Pandey, this course is designed for complete beginners. It walks you through the essentials of SolidWorks, from interface navigation and basic sketching to 3D modeling, assemblies, and technical drawings.

What makes this course especially useful is its real-world focus. Instead of just explaining tools, it shows you how to use them in practical design scenarios. You’ll build up to a full hands-on project: designing and assembling a Connecting Rod, complete with production-ready drawings.

The course includes video lessons, exercises, quizzes, and responsive Q&A support from the instructor. It’s compatible with SolidWorks 2021 and above, though most content works with older versions too. Perfect for students, engineers, or anyone looking to build a solid CAD foundation.

#2. SolidWorks: Become a Certified Associate Today (CSWA) – Udemy 🔗

If you’re aiming to become a Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate (CSWA), this hands-on course by Tayseer Almattar is a fantastic place to start. Designed for complete beginners, it takes you from zero experience to confidently building and modifying 3D models, assemblies, and detailed drawings, all aligned with what you need for the CSWA exam.

The course follows a learn-by-doing approach, helping you master each tool through practical exercises rather than shortcuts. You’ll cover everything from basic sketching and 3D features to assemblies, reference planes, material properties, and technical drawings. Each video is focused, annotated, and easy to follow, with enlarged icons and cursors for clarity.

What’s more, you get lifetime access to the course, regular updates, bonus content, and support through an exclusive SOLIDWORKS student community. Whether you’re a student, aspiring engineer, or maker looking to add SOLIDWORKS to your resume, this course gives you a solid foundation with a clear certification path.

Compatible with the classic SOLIDWORKS interface, it’s ideal for learners who prefer structured, practical, and exam-oriented training.

#3. SolidWorks Beginners Course – Udemy 🔗

This course is ideal for anyone who wants to go beyond the basics and truly master SolidWorks through practical, real-world projects. Taught by a seasoned engineer and certified SolidWorks expert with over 15 years of teaching experience, the course is built around one core principle: teaching SolidWorks the right way, with intention, structure, and application.

Instead of abstract exercises or generic tutorials, you’ll design a fully functional steam engine. Starting from the simplest components, each lesson adds complexity step-by-step, guiding you all the way to assembly, contextual modeling, and detailed technical drawings.

What makes this course stand out is its focus on professional workflows. You’ll learn a proven process that avoids the common pitfalls many new users face, like broken mates, poor design intent, and messy sketches. The instructor shares hard-earned lessons from training engineers at companies like Rolls Royce, Airbus, and Jaguar Land Rover, ensuring that what you learn here is grounded in real industry standards.

If you’re tired of learning from disconnected YouTube clips and want a structured, efficient way to build real SolidWorks skills, this is the course to take. It’s practical, project-based, and focused on making you job-ready, not just software-savvy.

#4. SolidWorks Mastery – Udemy 🔗

Designed by veteran engineer S. N. S. Roy, this course offers a complete SolidWorks learning path, from the basics to advanced tools. Whether you’re a beginner or brushing up after a break, the structured, step-by-step teaching method makes it easy to follow and apply.

With over 50 hours of content, 500+ lectures, 20 projects, and hundreds of quizzes, this course is packed with real-world practice. You’ll also get downloadable drawings, machine test assignments, and upcoming modules on animation, sheet metal, and stress analysis.

Ideal for learners preparing for the CSWA exam or professionals upgrading their skills, the course includes lifetime updates, instructor support, and a certificate of completion. One of the most comprehensive SolidWorks courses on Udemy, and a solid choice if you want it all in one place.

#5. 3D CAD Fundamental – National Taiwan University (Coursera) 🔗

Offered by NTU on Coursera, this course explores 3D CAD concepts through SolidWorks and gives you a solid academic foundation in design thinking, parametric modeling, and geometric constraints. Unlike most tutorials that focus purely on tool usage, this course emphasizes engineering logic and design principles alongside software instruction.

It’s ideal for students who want both technical skills and theoretical knowledge, especially those studying mechanical or industrial design. The course also includes assignments and peer-reviewed projects to reinforce learning.

You’ll earn a Coursera certificate upon completion, which can be added to your resume or LinkedIn profile. If you’re looking for university-level depth with online flexibility, this is an excellent pick.

#6. Introduction to Solid Edge – Siemens (Coursera) 🔗

While technically not a SolidWorks course, this Coursera program introduces Solid Edge, which shares many design workflows and modeling principles with SolidWorks. Learning both tools can give you greater versatility in the CAD job market.

This course is especially useful for beginners who want to understand the fundamentals of 3D parametric modeling, constraints, and sketch-based design in a user-friendly environment. It’s also great for anyone exploring Siemens-based ecosystems or looking to compare workflows between different CAD platforms.

If you’re starting your CAD journey and want to see the broader landscape, this course adds extra value by giving you a multi-platform perspective early on.

#7. SolidWorks 2024 Essential Training – LinkedIn Learning 🔗

Taught by industry veteran Gabriel Corbett, this course is a go-to resource for professionals and students who want a well-structured, up-to-date walkthrough of SolidWorks. Covering the 2024 version, it includes lessons on part modeling, assemblies, drawing creation, and design automation tools.

One of the best parts? The course is split into short, digestible segments, making it easy to learn at your own pace. Whether you’re onboarding into a new engineering team or prepping for certification, this training offers the perfect blend of theory and practice.

If you have LinkedIn Premium, access is free, and the completion certificate can be added directly to your profile to showcase your skills to potential employers.

#8. SolidProfessor – Professional SolidWorks Training Platform 🔗

SolidProfessor offers a deep and ever-expanding library of SolidWorks lessons, from beginner basics to advanced simulation and surface modeling. What makes it stand out is the professional-grade learning paths, perfect for engineers, educators, and companies looking to upskill teams.

Courses are designed in collaboration with industry professionals, and include interactive quizzes, design exercises, and certification prep. Whether you’re studying for the CSWP, CSWE, or specialty exams, this platform offers the most comprehensive preparation available.

While it comes at a premium price, SolidProfessor is more than a course, it’s a long-term training solution that evolves with your career.

#9. SolidWorks Class: Interface and Navigation – Skillshare 🔗

If you’re completely new to CAD and want to dip your toes in before committing to a longer course, this short Skillshare class is an excellent entry point. It focuses on understanding the SolidWorks interface, how to navigate 3D space, and the basics of file management.

It’s ideal for hobbyists, students, or anyone exploring design tools for the first time. Plus, Skillshare’s community model lets you engage with other learners, share feedback, and explore related classes in design and engineering.

This is a low-commitment, high-accessibility way to start learning SolidWorks with confidence.

#10. Dassault Systèmes SolidWorks CAD Fundamentals – edX 🔗

Offered by the makers of SolidWorks themselves, this edX course brings official, foundational training straight from Dassault Systèmes. It’s designed to teach you the core principles of SolidWorks, from sketching and modeling to assemblies and drafting, within a professional framework.

What’s unique here is the academic rigor combined with real-world use cases. You’ll work through industry-relevant design tasks and gain insights into how SolidWorks is used in R&D and manufacturing.

Whether you’re a student aiming for certification or a professional looking to validate your skills with official training, this course brings trustworthy, brand-backed credibility.

Best YouTube Channels to Learn SolidWorks for Free

In 2025, YouTube continues to be one of the most accessible and surprisingly effective platforms for learning SolidWorks. Whether you’re just getting started or brushing up on advanced skills, the right YouTube channel can offer clear explanations, hands-on projects, and real-world techniques, all for free. Unlike static textbooks or expensive courses, YouTube gives you the flexibility to learn at your own pace, revisit tricky concepts, and explore specific workflows tailored to your interests.

One of the most reliable sources of SolidWorks knowledge is the official SolidWorks Tutorials channel, managed by Dassault Systèmes. This channel provides in-depth walkthroughs of the latest SolidWorks features and tools, often showcasing updates tied to each new software release. It’s especially useful if you want to stay up to date with current versions or dive into specialized features like simulation, sheet metal design, or flow analysis. The content here is direct, high quality, and straight from the developers, making it a trustworthy reference for users at any level.

For complete beginners, CAD CAM TUTORIAL is an incredibly helpful channel. It offers hundreds of easy-to-follow, real-time tutorials that guide you through basic modeling techniques, part creation, and assembly workflows. The teaching style is slow-paced and clear, making it ideal if you’re just starting out or want to follow along while practicing in your own workspace. What sets it apart is how practical and approachable it feels, the tutorials often focus on simple mechanical parts you might actually design in real life.

If you’re looking for a more in-depth and experience-driven channel, Vertanux1 offers a wealth of tutorials with a focus on real-world design logic. The creator doesn’t just demonstrate tools; they explain the thinking behind each step, which helps you understand not only how to do something, but why it’s done that way. This makes it especially valuable for learners preparing for more complex design tasks or aiming to use SolidWorks in a professional setting.

Another standout channel is Learn SolidWorks, which is particularly well-suited for learners pursuing certifications like CSWA or CSWP. The channel breaks down each exam topic into digestible video lessons and provides timed exercises that mimic real test conditions. If your goal is to pass a certification exam or prepare for job applications, this structured approach can be a powerful complement to formal study.

While not exclusively focused on SolidWorks, the NYC CNC channel brings a unique perspective by integrating SolidWorks into real-life manufacturing processes. You’ll find videos that walk through the journey from CAD design to CNC machining, which is incredibly helpful if you’re interested in how your digital designs can be turned into physical products. This blend of CAD and CAM content makes it especially useful for engineers, makers, and entrepreneurs working in product development.

Lastly, JOKO ENGINEERING offers highly engaging, project-based tutorials that walk through full mechanical builds. Instead of isolated tool demonstrations, you get to see how individual features are used together in context, for example, building a full mechanical assembly or redesigning a product component from scratch. This approach makes learning more practical, immersive, and memorable. One great example is this step-by-step modeling project on YouTube, where the instructor guides viewers through the complete design of a mechanical part using SolidWorks.

Each of these channels provides a unique learning experience and serves a slightly different audience, from absolute beginners to advanced users preparing for professional certification. Combined with your own hands-on practice and a bit of consistency, free content on YouTube can be more than enough to get you up and running with SolidWorks, and even help you land your next job or freelance gig.

For even more curated learning resources, check out this collection of the best SolidWorks tutorials covering project-based videos, workflow breakdowns, and free downloadable models.

Reddit Communities, Discords & Forums for Peer Support

Learning SolidWorks on your own can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s even better when you’re connected to a community that shares tips, answers questions, and helps troubleshoot problems. Fortunately, the SolidWorks ecosystem has a wide range of active online spaces where learners, hobbyists, students, and professionals gather to exchange ideas and support one another. Whether you’re stuck on a modeling issue, looking for feedback on your latest project, or simply want to stay up to date with new tools and techniques, there’s a community for you.

Reddit is home to some of the most vibrant and responsive SolidWorks-related discussions. One of the most useful spaces is the r/SolidWorks subreddit, where users frequently post questions, tutorials, memes, and even job opportunities. The community is active and welcoming, making it a great place to ask beginner-level questions without fear of judgment. You’ll also find engineers and advanced users sharing solutions to complex issues, making this a valuable resource for all experience levels.

If you’re looking for a broader CAD discussion beyond SolidWorks alone, the r/cad subreddit brings together users from different software backgrounds. This is useful if you’re trying to compare workflows between platforms like SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or AutoCAD, or if you’re interested in general design theory and best practices across industries.

Beyond Reddit, the official MySolidWorks forums, run by Dassault Systèmes, offer a more structured and professional environment. These forums feature categorized sections for everything from 3D modeling and drawings to simulation and certification prep. It’s an excellent space to connect with certified professionals, find answers to niche technical questions, or browse previously solved problems. Many of the answers here come from SolidWorks experts, engineers, and even the software’s developers, so the quality of information is typically high.

Another standout space is GrabCAD Community, which includes not just discussions but also thousands of free CAD models uploaded by users around the world. It’s a fantastic resource if you want to download reference models, reverse-engineer parts for practice, or showcase your own work to peers. The community aspect comes alive through user feedback, upvotes, and collaboration on shared projects.

For more real-time support, many SolidWorks learners and professionals turn to Discord servers. There are several unofficial but highly active SolidWorks Discord communities where users share tutorials, live screenshare sessions, and help each other solve issues as they work. These communities are particularly helpful if you enjoy learning in a casual, chat-based environment with quicker response times and direct interaction. Discord is also great for staying motivated and accountable, especially if you’re learning alongside a peer group.

Some learners also find value in joining LinkedIn groups focused on SolidWorks and CAD careers. These groups can provide not only technical support, but also networking opportunities, job postings, and updates on certifications or industry events. It’s a smart move for anyone looking to transition their SolidWorks skills into real career opportunities.

Altogether, these online communities and forums form the backbone of peer-based learning for SolidWorks in 2025. No matter where you are in your journey, just starting out, preparing for a certification, or troubleshooting a tricky model, you’ll find a space where you can ask questions, share progress, and grow faster by learning alongside others.

Choosing the Right Course for You: Use Case Matrix

With so many SolidWorks courses available, the real question is: which one suits your needs best? The right course depends on your background, learning goals, and how you plan to apply your skills, whether for certification, career growth, or creative projects.

If you’re a complete beginner, start with something simple and structured like the SolidWorks Complete Course on Udemy or Skillshare’s interface-focused class. These provide a clear, low-pressure introduction to the basics.

Engineering or design students who want deeper understanding and academic-style instruction will benefit from 3D CAD Fundamental on Coursera or Dassault Systèmes’ SolidWorks CAD Fundamentals on edX. These blend hands-on learning with real engineering principles.

If you’re considering a local setup instead of the cloud, it’s worth reviewing what specs you’ll need, especially if you’re a student. Here’s a breakdown of the best computers for engineering students that can handle CAD software like SolidWorks with ease.

For certification seekers, the CSWA-focused Udemy course or SolidProfessor’s guided paths offer targeted exam prep, including practice questions and strategies to help you pass on your first try.

Working professionals looking to level up should consider SolidWorks 2024 Essential Training on LinkedIn Learning or SolidProfessor’s advanced modules, which focus on real-world applications like simulations and assemblies.

And if you’re a hobbyist or freelance designer, fast and flexible options like the Complete SolidWorks Crash Course or YouTube tutorials from JOKO ENGINEERING and CAD CAM TUTORIAL offer quick wins without a huge time commitment.

Choosing the right course is all about matching your skill level and goals, whether you’re aiming to get hired, earn a certification, or simply bring your creative ideas to life.

Freelancers and engineers alike are building careers by offering CAD modeling services online, with many professionals leveraging tools like Vagon for CAD CAM engineering to streamline their remote workflows.

Final Thoughts & How to Start Learning Today

SolidWorks has become more than just a CAD tool, it’s a powerful gateway to careers in engineering, product design, manufacturing, and even entrepreneurship. As industries continue to rely on digital prototyping and precision modeling, SolidWorks skills are no longer just a bonus on a resume, they’re often a requirement. The good news is that learning this software has never been more accessible, thanks to a growing ecosystem of online courses, video tutorials, certification programs, and community support.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the options, the best way to start is by choosing a course that fits your current skill level and immediate goals. You don’t need to master everything at once. Begin with the basics, like part modeling and 2D sketches, and gradually move toward assemblies, simulations, and design optimization. Along the way, make use of free resources like YouTube tutorials, downloadable practice files, and community forums where you can ask questions and see how others solve similar problems.

Another important step is setting up your environment for learning. If you’re using a high-performance computer or a cloud-based solution like Vagon Computer, make sure your setup can comfortably run SolidWorks and support multitasking with online lessons. A smooth workflow can reduce frustration and make the learning process far more enjoyable.

Setting up with Vagon is quick and cost-transparent, you can check out the cloud computer pricing to find a setup that fits your learning budget.

Experience seamless performance on any device with Vagon’s high-performance cloud PCs. Sign up here and start designing with pro-level power, no hardware upgrades required.

Most importantly, remember that consistency beats intensity. Watching a few videos each day, replicating designs on your own, and staying curious will take you further than cramming once a week. And don’t forget to engage with others, joining a SolidWorks subreddit, Discord server, or LinkedIn group can help keep you motivated and provide real-time feedback as you progress.

Whether you’re building your first 3D model or preparing for a CSWP certification, the tools, courses, and communities covered in this guide are here to help you succeed. Pick a course, open SolidWorks, and take that first step, because the best way to learn is to start designing.

If you're still exploring your options between different platforms, here's a helpful comparison of AutoCAD vs SolidWorks to guide your decision based on your goals and design workflow.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is SolidWorks and what is it used for?

SolidWorks is a 3D CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software developed by Dassault Systèmes. It’s widely used in engineering, product design, and manufacturing industries to create precise models of mechanical parts, assemblies, and systems. Beyond modeling, SolidWorks also offers tools for simulation, motion analysis, rendering, and technical documentation. It’s commonly used by engineers, designers, and industrial professionals to prototype, test, and manufacture real-world products.

2. Can I learn SolidWorks without an engineering background?

Yes, absolutely. While SolidWorks is a technical tool, many beginners without formal engineering education successfully learn it for freelance work, personal projects, and career shifts. There are beginner-friendly courses available that start from scratch, focusing on basic modeling and navigation before introducing more complex features.

3. How long does it take to learn SolidWorks?

The time it takes to learn SolidWorks depends on your goals. For basic part modeling and navigation, most beginners can become comfortable within a few weeks of consistent practice. Preparing for certifications like CSWA usually takes 1–3 months, depending on your pace and prior experience. Mastering advanced tools like simulations or surfacing can take longer.

4. Do I need a powerful computer to run SolidWorks?

SolidWorks is resource-intensive and typically requires a high-performance computer with a good CPU, dedicated GPU, and ample RAM (16GB+ recommended). However, cloud-based solutions like Vagon Computer allow you to run SolidWorks on any device, even a low-end laptop, by offloading the computing to a powerful remote machine. This makes SolidWorks accessible even without expensive hardware.

5. Is SolidWorks free for students?

SolidWorks offers a Student Edition at a discounted price or for free through partnerships with universities and training centers. If you’re enrolled in an engineering or design program, check with your school to see if you’re eligible. There are also temporary trial versions and free access through some course providers.

6. What’s the difference between CSWA and CSWP certifications?

The CSWA (Certified SolidWorks Associate) is an entry-level certification that validates basic skills in part modeling, assemblies, and drawings. The CSWP (Certified SolidWorks Professional) is more advanced and covers topics like configurations, design tables, and complex geometry. Earning these certifications can significantly boost your job prospects and credibility in the design field.

7. Are online SolidWorks courses worth it?

Yes, online courses offer structured, flexible, and cost-effective ways to learn SolidWorks. Platforms like Udemy, Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and SolidProfessor provide in-depth lessons, downloadable files, and certification prep. Many learners prefer online courses because they can learn at their own pace and revisit material whenever needed.

8. How does SolidWorks compare to other CAD tools like Fusion 360 or AutoCAD?

SolidWorks is known for its mechanical engineering focus, robust parametric modeling, and deep support for manufacturing workflows. Fusion 360 is more cloud-integrated and includes features like generative design and CAM, making it popular for startups and makers. AutoCAD, meanwhile, is better suited for 2D drafting and architectural use. Each has its strengths, but SolidWorks remains a top choice for mechanical design and precision modeling.

9. Can I use SolidWorks for 3D printing?

Yes. SolidWorks allows you to create watertight 3D models and export them as STL files, which are standard for 3D printing. It also offers tools to check model integrity and thickness, helping ensure your parts are print-ready. Many product designers and engineers use SolidWorks in prototyping pipelines that involve 3D printing.

10. What’s the best way to practice SolidWorks after finishing a course?

After completing a course, practice by modeling real objects around you, tools, furniture, phone stands, or mechanical parts. Try replicating items from GrabCAD or Thingiverse. You can also participate in online challenges, share your work on forums or LinkedIn, or collaborate on open-source design projects. Consistent, hands-on practice is the key to building confidence and speed in SolidWorks.