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Most Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) certifications are achieved through online, skills-based exams that are targeted to technology or job-role competencies. The MCA certification process requires candidates to submit evidence of their expertise and then defend that submission before an MCA Review Board of Microsoft Certified Architects.
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Successful candidates generally have ten or more years of IT experience, and five or more years of specific architectural experience. Also, the MCA program is designed to certify individuals who can be described by the following statements:
They have earned a Microsoft Certified Master (MCM) certification.
They are practicing architects, actively delivering solutions to customers and the industry.
They are able to conduct meaningful communication with technical, business, and architectural stakeholders.
Their work is repeatable and they bring skills, process, and technique to ensure consistent success.
Their solutions are durable and of high technical quality.
They act as trusted advisors with enough knowledge and objectivity to make the best recommendations possible on behalf of their clients.
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The time it takes varies, depending on the candidate. However, the estimated time for fully qualified architects to prepare their documentation and prepare for the MCA Board Exam is typically 80 to 120 hours over a period of three to six months.
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Register and follow the steps outlined for you.
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The application fee for the MCA program is a non-refundable US$125. If you are accepted into the program, the fee to take the MCA Board Exam is US$7,500. The Review Board fee is non-refundable unless canceled at least 60 days prior to the date of the scheduled exam.
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You may schedule an exam no less than two months in advance. MCA Board Exams are scheduled on roughly a quarterly basis.
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Candidates are given the results within two weeks of their review.
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As with all Microsoft certifications, you can provide your employer access to an online version of your certification. In addition, when you earn the MCA certification, you have the opportunity to submit biographical information to appear on the MCA website.
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The MCA program is committed to making all reasonable efforts to accommodate candidates who have disabilities.
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No, we do not currently offer training. Experience is one of the most important factors in qualifying and preparing for the program. Architects who earn the MCA certification have at least 10—and many have more than 20—years of IT experience. Additionally, most MCAs have more than five years of architectural experience.
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No, mentors are not available at this time. Microsoft has piloted a number of initiatives to support candidates during the program, ranging from assigning one mentor to assist throughout the certification process to assigning multiple mentors to assist at defined stages. These programs have not shown a significant impact on candidate success.
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It is important to devote focused time and effort into the preparation of your portfolio documentation and presentation.
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Microsoft maintains telepresence rooms in a number of locations worldwide, and the MCA programs make use of these facilities for MCA Board Exams when required. These regional locations may reduce travel requirements for candidates. Additionally, some MCA programs organize MCA Board Exams to coincide with the TechEd Europe conference.
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The MCA program offers these exclusive benefits to its members:
Recognition for achieving the capstone certification from Microsoft, proving your ability to architect large-scale complex solutions with Microsoft technologies
Membership on the MCA distribution list in your specific solution area
Promotion of your name and technical services on the Microsoft website
MCA certificate and plaque
Potential to participate on future MCA Review Board panels and in beta exam development
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Certified architects receive their welcome kits within four to six weeks of earning certification.
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If you are accepted into the program, you are granted access to a website that contains resources to help you prepare for the MCA Board Exam.
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Yes. The program community sites contain contact information for certified architects, to enable you to network and collaborate. In addition, you will be added to an MCA listserv.
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All MCA logos are available through our online Partner Logo Builder tool. The tool enables you to create customized logos that display your Microsoft certifications, and it lets you personalize how you present your technical and professional qualifications.
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Send questions regarding the Microsoft Certified Master (MCM) program to mcmprog@microsoft.com. Send questions regarding the Microsoft Certified Architect (MCA) program to mcap@microsoft.com.
