Preparing for and Taking Microsoft Certification Exams – FAQ

A.

A.

Microsoft Certification exams are available in a variety of languages. When you register for an exam, you can review the list of languages in which the exam is currently available. If an exam is not available in your native language and you must take it in English, you can request an additional 30 minutes to complete it. To request the additional 30 minutes, you need to register by phone rather than online, and you must make this arrangement before appearing at the testing center.

A.

Microsoft is dedicated to developing technology that is usable by and accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities. If you are unable to take a Microsoft Certification exam, either using standard testing equipment or within the standard exam duration, the Microsoft Certification program is committed to making all reasonable efforts to accommodate you. Visit the following link for full details about the process for requesting an accommodation.

A.

Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS), Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP), and Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD) exams typically cost US$150 but are priced according to currency values in specific countries and regions. Exam prices are subject to change. In some countries and regions, additional taxes may apply.

A.

Yes, you can take advantage of the Microsoft volume discount on Microsoft Certification exams. When you purchase exam vouchers in quantities of 20 or more, you receive a 10 percent discount. The vouchers are good for one year from the date of purchase. To purchase vouchers, contact the exam delivery provider. This exam voucher volume discount is available in limited areas. The offer is valid in the following countries and regions:

A.

The preparation guide for each exam contains a "Skills Measured" section that you can review, as well as a list of preparation tools and resources provided by Microsoft. The best way to prepare for an exam is to practice the skills listed in the preparation guide. Hands-on experience with the technology is required to successfully pass Microsoft Certification exams.

Note that Microsoft reserves the right to update content for any reason at any time to maintain the validity and relevance of our certifications. This includes, but is not limited to, incorporating functionality and features related to technology revisions and service packs into exam content. However, these changes are limited to the skills defined in the preparation guide. In other words, if new functionality changes how you perform a specific skill defined in the preparation guide, you may be tested on that new functionality in relation to that specific skill, but new functionality, in and of itself, will not be covered on the exam. It will only be tested if it’s tied to a specific skill identified in the preparation guide. Microsoft will update the preparation guide to notify candidates when content related to a revision and/or service pack is likely to be added to the exam.

If you are preparing for an exam on a technology that has an upcoming revision or service pack, we recommend that you consider each skill measured on the exam (as defined in the preparation guide) in light of that upcoming release. Depending on when you take the exam, you may be asked questions related to the revision/service pack functionality. Although we understand that this does create challenges for candidates preparing for an exam, we must be able to update content as needed to ensure the validity and relevance of our certifications while maintaining the security and integrity of the exam content.

A.

We do not provide information about the number of questions included on each exam. This practice helps maintain exam security and the value of Microsoft Certifications.

A.

The time varies from one exam to another, but it will not exceed four hours under normal circumstances. In addition to answering the exam questions, you will have time to review instructions and provide comments after completing the exam. To request the duration of your exam, contact the exam delivery provider; however, because Microsoft reserves the right to change the exam content and time at any time, the most accurate information will be obtained if you contact the exam delivery provider on the day of your exam. We strongly recommend that you plan for four hours when taking an exam.

A notification appears on your screen before the exam begins that shows the maximum time allowed for answering the questions in that exam. Most candidates will complete the exam before reaching the maximum time.

If candidates are unable to take a Microsoft Certification exam within the standard exam duration due to a disability, the Microsoft Certification Program is committed to making all reasonable efforts to accommodate these candidates. Visit the following links for full details about the process for requesting an accommodation.

A.

Individuals vary in their approaches to taking exams, so there is no single approach that works for everyone. However, these tips help most candidates:

A.

To return to the question immediately preceding the question that you are answering, use the Previous button. To return to any other questions, use the Review Screen at the end of the section or the exam. In some exams, you cannot return to a section of the exam after you have left it; these sections will be clearly indicated during the exam, and you can review your answers before leaving the section.

A.

Our preparation guides list key tasks as well as subtasks that subject matter experts have identified as important for the technology area covered by the exam—but they do not list all subtopics related to the key tasks that may be included on the exam. The subtopics are intended to better illustrate the scope of the key task/objective that will be covered. In addition, some questions might reference technologies that are outside the focus of the exam in order to provide appropriate context for the question, but these technologies are defined in the audience profile. Candidates who fit the audience profile for the exam should have the necessary experience to understand and use this contextual information to answer the questions.

A.

Microsoft reserves the right to update content for any reason at any time to maintain the validity and relevance of our certifications. This includes, but is not limited to, incorporating functionality and features related to technology revisions and service packs into exam content. However, these changes are limited to the skills defined in the preparation guide. In other words, if new functionality changes how you perform a specific skill defined in the preparation guide, you may be tested on that new functionality in relation to that specific skill, but new functionality, in and of itself, will not be covered on the exam. It will only be tested if it’s tied to a specific skill identified in the preparation guide. Microsoft will update the preparation guide to notify candidates when content related to a revision and/or service pack is likely to be added to the exam.

If you are preparing for an exam on a technology that has an upcoming revision or service pack, we recommend that you consider each skill measured on the exam (as defined in the preparation guide) in light of that upcoming release. Depending on when you take the exam, you may be asked questions related to the revision/service pack functionality. Although we understand that this does create challenges for candidates preparing for an exam, we must be able to update content as needed to ensure the validity and relevance of our certifications while maintaining the security and integrity of the exam content.

A.

When a product update is released that changes functionality, we review the changes against the objective domain and the existing questions to determine whether any content areas and/or questions have become technically inaccurate because of the changes. If questions become technically inaccurate, they are removed from the exam. If the change adds functionality that maps to an existing objective, new items may be included to address this functionality. During this review process, we ask external subject matter experts to indicate whether the functionality introduced as part of the update significantly changes the content domain or meaning of the certification; if these changes have a significant impact, we create a new certification rather than incorporate those changes into the current version of the exam. This ensures that people who hold the certification have demonstrated competency in the same content area.

A.

For questions where the answer would be different depending on the product update, we specify the service pack/revision in the question so that candidates have all the information necessary to answer the question correctly. If the service pack/revision should be considered when answering all questions on an exam, the preparation guide will also be updated to reflect this change.

A.

The associated training materials may or may not get revised, depending on the scope of changes introduced by the product update in relation to the training content, and these updates may or may not align to the timing of when the updates are incorporated into the exam.

Although Microsoft attempts to align training and exam availability, this is not always possible for a variety of reasons, and a gap between the availability of an exam and related training is likely. Keep in mind that Microsoft exams are not intended as post-tests of any preparation or training product created by Microsoft or any third-party provider. Our certifications are designed to measure experience-based skills without bias in regard to the manner in which candidates obtain these skills. The best way to prepare for an exam is to practice the skills listed in the preparation guide. Hands-on experience with the technology is required to successfully pass Microsoft Certification exams.

Microsoft does not review study materials developed by third parties and is not responsible for their content or for ensuring that they are updated to reflect product updates. If you have questions or comments about exam preparation materials developed by third parties, please contact the publishers directly.

A.

During the first phase of exam development, subject matter experts identify the critical tasks performed within specific job functions and/or when using a specific technology. The resulting list of tasks, called the "objective domain," forms the basis for the development of the exam. The objective domain is transformed into a blueprint survey, and a different set of subject matter experts rate the importance and frequency of each objective (task). These ratings allow us to prioritize the objectives and determine the number of questions around each topic area to include on the exam. If an exam contains more questions on a particular content area than you expect, during the blueprinting process, a large group of subject matter experts rated this content area as very important and/or they rated the content area as encompassing skills or tasks that are used or performed frequently on the job.

Note that Microsoft relies on subject matter experts throughout exam development to ensure that exam content reflects the real-world use of our technology in the marketplace. Subject matter experts define the content domain, determine how important each skill is, write and review items, and help us set the passing score. Although a content area might feel like it’s overemphasized on an exam, the inclusion of that content is based on worldwide subject matter expert input into the exam development process.

A.

If you have feedback about an instructor-led Microsoft training course, provide it directly to the instructor. If you have feedback about a Microsoft E-Learning course, complete the feedback form that appears when you complete the course. For Microsoft Press books, use the following link.

Microsoft does not review study materials developed by third parties and is not responsible for their content. If you have questions or comments about exam preparation materials developed by third parties, please contact the publishers directly.

A.

All learning materials related to exams, including Microsoft training and Microsoft Press resources, are developed independently of exam content, because the exams are intended to assess real-world experience with the technology, not the effectiveness of training materials. Although training materials are designed to help candidates prepare for the exam, qualified candidates will have sufficient experience in working with the technology to successfully perform the tasks described in the exam questions regardless of any training that the candidate may have taken.

For a variety of reasons, including the time available for the course, it is not always feasible to cover all the exam objectives in a classroom environment. However, Microsoft works hard to ensure that some form of training material exists for all skills that will be measured on an exam. Use the exam preparation guide to identify which Microsoft training resources cover the skills represented in the exam.

A.

You will receive notification of your pass or fail status immediately upon completing your exam. In addition, you will receive a printed report that provides your exam score and feedback on the skills measured. The exam delivery provider will forward your score to Microsoft within five working days of your exam.

Beta exam results: You will be notified by mail of your beta exam results up to 16 weeks after the beta period ends. This timeframe reflects the comprehensive process used to evaluate the beta exam results. If you pass the beta exam, you earn credit for that exam and any resulting certification. You do not need to retake the exam in its final version if you pass the beta version.

A.

If you do not pass an exam, review your score report in conjunction with the preparation guide and continue to practice the necessary skills, focusing on those in the subject areas where you demonstrated the weakest performance. When you are ready, schedule a retake in accordance with our retake policy. Note that you must pay for each exam you retake and follow Microsoft’s retake policy. To learn more, view the following link.

A.

Microsoft Certification exams include various formats and question types to accurately evaluate the candidate's knowledge and skills.

Microsoft continually introduces innovative testing technologies and question types and reserves the right to incorporate either into exams at any time without advance notice.

A.

No. Microsoft does not identify the testing formats or question types of any exam at the time of registration because we continually introduce innovative testing technologies and question types. Both practices help us maintain exam security and the value of Microsoft Certifications.

To get a feel for the testing formats and question types that might be on the exam, we encourage you to review our item type tutorial and/or take practice tests offered through Microsoft Certified Practice Test Providers.

Microsoft continually introduces innovative testing technologies and question types and reserves the right to incorporate either into exams at any time without advance notice.

A.

Selectable elements are marked with a border and shaded when you move your cursor over them.

A.

Click an element to select it. The area around the element will become dim to indicate that it has been selected. Click the element again to cancel the selection. To reverse all selections, click the Reset button.

A.

You can use the split bar to resize panes. In some cases, you might need to use the scroll bar to view the entire text of the question or the entire graphic.

A.

To fill in a text box, drag the appropriate text element to the text box. To replace the text in a text box, drag another text element to the text box. To remove the text, drag the text element back to its original location.

A.

To select an option or a check box, you can either click the option or check box or click the text of the option or text box.

A.

To clear an option, you can either click another option within the same group or click the text of another option within the same group. To reverse all selections, click the Reset button.

A.

To clear a check box, you can either click the selected check box or click the text of the selected check box.

A.

You can use the split bar to resize panes. In some cases, you might need to use the scroll bar to view the entire text of the question or the entire graphic.

A.

In some active-screen questions, not all elements in the dialog box will be active.

A.

Drag the appropriate source objects to the correct target locations in the answer area. Target locations are indicated by a dimmed box. When a source object is within a target, an outline will appear around the dimmed box. The object will snap into position when you release the mouse button.

A.

You can either drag the object back to its original position or select the object and press the DELETE key. To replace objects that have been positioned on a target, you can also drag another object into its position. To reverse all selections, click the Reset button.

A.

You can use the split bar to resize panes. In some cases, you might need to use the scroll bar to view the entire text of the question or the entire graphic.

A.

You might not need to use all source objects or targets provided. Depending on the question, plausible distracters may be included in either list.

A.

Some source objects can be used only one time, while some can be used more than once. A source object will appear deactivated when its use limit is reached. To use this source object again, remove an instance of it from the answer area.

A.

Drag source objects from the list of choices to the answer list, and arrange the objects in the correct order. You can also click a source object to select it, and then click the LEFT ARROW key to move the object from the list of choices to the bottom of the answer list.

A.

To reorder objects in the answer list, drag an object to the correct location in the answer list. You can also click an object to select it, and then use the arrow buttons to move the object. Note that the arrow buttons might be unavailable based on the location of the selected object (for example, the top or bottom of the list).

A.

To remove an object from the answer list, drag the object from the answer list to the list of choices. You can also select the object and press the DELETE key, or select the object and then click the LEFT ARROW key. In all these cases, the object will be returned to the list of choices.

A.

To remove all objects from the answer list, click the Reset button.

A.

The case study exam format uses complex scenarios that more accurately simulate what Microsoft Certified Professionals do on the job. A case study model also allows us to test your ability to analyze and synthesize information to make decisions.

A.

No, you will not be able to review a case study after you move to the next one. When you complete a case study and its associated questions, a review screen will appear. This screen lets you review your answers and make changes before you move to the next case study.

A.

Scenario-based questions are designed to test your ability to analyze and synthesize information in order to make decisions—not to test memory. You can refer to scenario details as frequently as necessary while you are working on questions in a case study.

A.

Click one of the round buttons in the left pane. If a list of sections (for example, Business Requirements or Company Information) appears under the button, click one of them to display its content. To return to a question from a case study, click the Question button in the left pane.

A.

Microsoft uses the format for exam items that most accurately evaluates the candidate's knowledge and skills. Such formats may include:

The choice of item type varies from exam to exam and may change from time to time.

A.

To date, the following exams include performance-based items:

Note that this list is subject to change at any time. Some exceptions apply in selected regions.

A.

Simulations limit the number of paths available to complete exam tasks because they simulate a small portion of the technology’s functionality, whereas virtual labs allow candidates to complete the task using any path and tool available in a real computing environment. From a scoring perspective, it doesn’t matter how you perform the task; as long as the outcome is correct, you will receive credit for performing the task.

A.

Not at this time, but Microsoft is in the process of rolling out performance-based exams around the world.

A.

The decision to apply performance-based testing is made on a case-by-case basis when Microsoft determines that it is the best method to validate a particular skill. Some exams have many performance-based questions, and some exams have few or none.

A.

There are certain skills that are better tested by more traditional formats, such as multiple-choice questions. The number of hands-on tasks in an exam depends on the skills being measured.

A.

No. The skills that are tested do not change; therefore, retesting is not necessary.

A.

No. As with exams not based on performance, we recommend that you use the exam preparation guide to determine which subject areas and skills are required to pass the exam. When an exam is updated with performance-based items, the skills measured remain the same. Hands-on experience is always required, and this remains the same regardless of the item type used to measure your skills.

A.

Yes, these exams are typically longer than exams that do not contain performance-based items, and in most cases, take three to four hours to complete. Because Microsoft reserves the right to add performance-based items to any exam at any time, we strongly recommend that you plan for four hours when taking any exam.

A.

Here is some general information about exam scoring:

Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) and Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) exams

All MCTS and MCITP exams are scaled such that the passing score is 700. The actual cut score (the number of items you need to answer correctly) is determined by a group of subject-matter experts. A common misperception is that you must answer 70 percent of the items correctly in order to pass the exam; however, the actual percentage varies from exam to exam and may be more or less than 70 percent, depending on the input provided by the subject-matter experts who helped us set the cut score. After you complete your exam, the number of items that you got correct is compared with the cut score to determine whether the result is pass or fail. The exam delivery provider's software generates the scaled score and bars shown on your score report based on scoring information provided by Microsoft.

Microsoft Office exams

All Microsoft Office exam scores are reported on a scale of 1 to 1,000. The passing score varies from exam to exam and is provided on the score report. The actual cut score percentage is determined by a group of subject-matter experts using a process similar to that used to set the cut score for MCTS and MCITP exams. After you complete your exam, the points you earned are compared with the cut score to determine whether the result is pass or fail.

Microsoft Dynamics exams

We are in the process of migrating Microsoft Dynamics exams to scaled scores similar to what we use for MCTS and MCITP exams. For exams that have been migrated, the passing score is 700; for those that have not been migrated, the cut score is reported as a percentage of items that candidates need to answer correctly in order to pass the exam. Regardless of whether the cut score is reported as a scaled score or a percentage, the proportion of items that candidates must answer correctly varies from exam to exam and ranges between 60 and 80 percent. The passing score is determined by a group of subject matter experts. After you complete your exam, the points you earned are compared with the cut score to determine whether the result is pass or fail.

A.

MCTS and MCITP exams

Your scaled score and pass/fail status: All MCTS and MCITP exams are scaled so that a passing score is 700. Any score of 700 or greater is a "pass." Any score below 700 is a "fail." Different passing scores do not reflect different levels of examinee knowledge. Because of the way Microsoft sets the cut score, we cannot guarantee that an examinee who scores 900 is more knowledgeable in the exam's topic area than an examinee who scores 800. We can only say that both examinees are at least minimally qualified. The same is true for failing scores. An examinee who scores 400 is not necessarily less knowledgeable in the exam's topic area than an examinee who scores 600. In this case, both examinees fail to meet the minimum qualifications for the certification. This is why your exam scores do not appear on your transcript.

Your section scores: The bars on the score report show your relative performance in the various subject areas covered by the exam--the longer the bar, the stronger your performance in that area. Because the subject areas contain varying numbers of items, the length of any bar or combination of bars does not correspond directly to your overall exam score or pass/fail status.

Microsoft Office exams

Your section scores: The bars on the score report show your relative performance in the various subject areas covered by the exam--the longer the bar, the stronger your performance in that area. Because the subject areas contain varying numbers of items, the length of any bar or combination of bars does not correspond directly to your overall exam score or pass/fail status.

Microsoft Dynamics exams

We are in the process of migrating Microsoft Dynamics exams to scaled scores similar to what we use for MCTS and MCITP exams. For exams that have been migrated, possible scores range from 0-1000 with a passing score of 700; for those that have not been migrated, scores range from 0 percent to 100 percent. The passing score for Microsoft Dynamics exams varies from exam to exam.

Candidates are also provided information about their performance on each functional group or content area included on the exam. This information can be used to develop areas of weakness in the content domain. Because the subject areas contain varying numbers of items, the information showing your performance in each functional group or content area does not correspond directly to your overall exam score or pass/fail status.

A.

The score report details the areas in which a candidate demonstrates technical strength and the areas in which the candidate shows a need for improvement. The report provides a numeric score for overall exam performance as well as a bar graph for each subject area of the exam.

A.

Microsoft provides numeric scores on all exams that give candidates some indication of their level of performance on the exam.

MCTS and MCITP exams

Following industry best practices, Microsoft has created an exam scale that is consistent across all MCTS and MCITP exams. The scale requires a minimum passing score of 700 on all exams. If you receive a score of 700 or above, it means that you are at least minimally qualified; if you receive a score below 700, it means that you are not minimally qualified. Because of the way the cut scores are set, no other judgments about the numerical score obtained can be made.

Microsoft Office exams

Scores for Microsoft Office exams are reported on a scale of 1 to 1,000. The passing score varies from exam to exam and is provided on the score report. The score report shows the percent correct for each section. If your score is at or above the required score, it means that you are at least minimally qualified; if you receive a score below the required score, it means that you are not minimally qualified. Because of the way the cut scores are set, no other judgments about the numerical score obtained can be made.

Microsoft Dynamics exams

If your score is at or above the required score, it means that you are at least minimally qualified; if you receive a score below the required score, it means that you are not minimally qualified. Because of the way the cut scores are set, no other judgments about the numerical score obtained can be made.

A.

Each bar on the score report corresponds to a subject, or skill, area described in the exam preparation guide. The length of the bar indicates the strength of your performance on each skills section of the exam. The closer the bar comes to the strong end of the continuum, the higher the score on that skills section. The closer the bar is to the "needs development" end of the continuum, the lower the score in that skills section. If you have to retake an exam, review your score report in conjunction with the exam preparation guide and continue to practice the necessary skills, focusing on those in the subject areas where you demonstrated the weakest performance.

A.

MCTS and MCITP exams

MCTS and MCITP exams do not show a numerical score for each section. The score report provides a numerical score to reflect pass/fail status only. Because we provide scaled scores and each exam section (subject area) often contains a different number of questions, combining their numerical results at the section level rarely provides an accurate final exam result. As an alternative to providing a numerical score for each section, we provide score bars to show subject areas of strength and weakness. If you have to retake an exam, review your score report in conjunction with the exam preparation guide and continue to practice the necessary skills, focusing on those in the subject areas where you demonstrated the weakest performance.

Note that candidates must pass all sections in order to pass upgrade exams because each section represents a component exam for which examinees receive credit when they pass the upgrade exam. As a result, these candidates receive a numerical score for each component exam.

Microsoft Office exams

Microsoft Office exams show the percent correct for each section (subject area). Because each exam section often contains a different number of questions, combining their numerical results at the section level rarely provides an accurate final exam result. We provide score bars to show subject areas of strength and weakness.

Microsoft Dynamics exams

We are in the process of migrating Microsoft Dynamics exams to scaled scores similar to what we use for MCTS and MCITP exams. For exams that have been migrated, bars are provided showing your relative performance in each functional group or content area; for those exams that have not been migrated, this information is provided numerically. Because each exam section often contains a different number of questions, combining the section-level information might not reflect your final exam result. We provide this information to show subject areas of relative strength and weakness.

A.

Each section of the exam may contain a different number of questions; therefore, the results on individual exam sections might not reflect your final exam result. In other words, there is no one-to-one relationship between the length of the bars and your pass/fail status. Additionally, a common misperception is that you must answer 70 percent of the items correctly in order to pass the exam; however, the actual percentage varies from exam to exam and may be more or less than 70 percent, depending on the input provided by the subject-matter experts who helped us set the cut score.

A.

Each item, task, or simulation is worth one point, regardless of what you have to do to answer the question. This is subject to change as Microsoft continues to introduce new and innovative question types.

A.

No. Points are not deducted for incorrect answers; if you answer incorrectly, you will simply not earn the point associated with answering correctly. This is subject to change as Microsoft continues to introduce new and innovative question types.

A.

Microsoft is committed to continually updating exam content and utilizing innovative testing techniques. Our goal is to increase the relevance of our exams, offer a more comprehensive and valuable certification, and ensure the security of exam content. To gather the data needed to update and improve the quality of exams, we present new content to candidates without counting the results toward their score. As soon as we have the necessary data to evaluate the quality of the question, it will be scored. Microsoft will not inform candidates about which questions are unscored; as a result, you should answer every question as if it will be scored.

A.

No, it does not indicate an error. It is not uncommon for candidates to obtain similar or identical scores on multiple attempts of an exam. Receiving the same score on multiple attempts does not indicate that the program computing the results is in error.

A.

The number of questions that appear for each section is determined by subject matter experts. As a result, some sections have more questions than others. It is not uncommon to score zero when a section contains relatively few questions.

A.

In some cases, you might experience a delay of up to a minute while your next question loads. The exam delivery provider’s software is designed to accommodate this event. A delay between questions does not impact the responses you have recorded or the time remaining to finish the exam. Your exam will be scored correctly regardless of delays between questions.

A.

No. To help protect exam content and, moreover, the value of Microsoft Certifications, we cannot share information about which items you missed. This is a standard practice in the certification industry. The bars on the score report show your relative performance in the various subject areas covered by the exam. If you do not pass an exam, review your score report in conjunction with the preparation guide. Focus on obtaining and practicing the skills in the areas where you had the weakest exam performance.

A.

Although Microsoft Certification exams provide feedback about the areas where examinees need to develop their skills further, Microsoft Certification exams are not designed to provide detailed or diagnostic feedback. We encourage you to use practice tests from Microsoft Certified Practice Test Providers as diagnostic tools to identify your strengths and weaknesses.

A.

No. The survey that you take at the beginning of the exam has no impact on the exam content or scoring. This is purely an evaluation tool that our exam psychometricians use to do ongoing exam monitoring and validity checks so that we can ensure the highest possible standards of quality and rigor over the exam’s lifecycle.

A.

Our exam retake policy helps to ensure that candidates take the necessary time to prepare for their exam, and it is designed to prevent unauthorized use and piracy of exam content.

A.

No. Exams cannot be rescored. If you have a concern about the technical accuracy of a particular item, please submit an Item Challenge form.

If you experienced technical difficulties during the exam, please contact the exam delivery provider’s customer service.

To offer other types of feedback, please contact your Regional Service Center or the Microsoft Certification Program Help Center.

A.

The Microsoft Certification Program requires candidates to accept the terms of an NDA before taking an exam. The NDA legally requires candidates to keep information related to exam content confidential. Requiring the acceptance of the NDA helps protect the security of Microsoft Certification exams and the integrity of the Microsoft Certification Program by legally discouraging piracy and/or unauthorized use of exam content.

A.

Performance-based testing requires candidates to perform tasks rather than simply answer questions. This discourages candidates from memorizing questions.

A.

Cheating is any fraudulent activity that enables an unqualified candidate to pass an exam. This type of egregious misconduct negatively affects the integrity of the Microsoft Certification Program.

A.

If a candidate violates any testing rule, exam policy, or any part of the exam agreement (NDA), or engages in any misconduct that diminishes the security and integrity of the Microsoft Certification Program in any way, the candidate may be permanently prohibited from taking any future Microsoft Certification exams. In addition, the candidate may be decertified from the Microsoft Certification Program, and test scores and certifications may be revoked. This information is provided to the candidate when they arrive at the test center.

Proctors at testing centers are authorized to respond immediately and appropriately against candidates who are caught engaging in any fraudulent activities or misconduct.

Examples of such misconduct, misuse, and fraud include, but are not limited to, the following:

A.

A "brain dump," as it relates to the certification exams, is a source, such as a website, that contains certification exam content that has been fraudulently obtained with the intention to share it with or sell it to exam candidates. The content included in brain dumps is exactly the same or substantially similar to items appearing on the exam. Because the exam content was fraudulently obtained, using this type of material to prepare for or during an exam constitutes cheating. "Brain dump" providers are in violation of Microsoft intellectual property rights and nondisclosure agreements.

A.

If a candidate knowingly or unknowingly memorizes unauthorized content found in “brain dumps” in order to pass an exam, clearly, he or she will not have the requisite skills to effectively use and manage Microsoft software or systems. Eventually, his or her manager will identify this lack of technical knowledge and skill and take appropriate action. If Microsoft learns that a candidate used a “brain dump” site to prepare for an exam, this candidate will be permanently banned or prohibited from taking any future Microsoft Certification exams and may be decertified from the Microsoft Certification Program. In addition, test scores and certifications, if applicable, may be revoked. These actions may be taken even if the candidate did not intend to defraud the Microsoft Certification Program.

Many "brain dump" providers are fairly blatant in their messaging, descriptions of their products, and the intended uses, while others are much more subtle in their messaging and practices. As a result, candidates should be cautious about using exam preparation material that seems too good to be true.

If you think you have discovered a “brain dump” site with Microsoft content, please inform Microsoft.

A.

Proxy testing occurs when someone takes an exam for another candidate. In other words, the candidate has passed an exam without actually sitting it. Engaging in proxy testing as either the test taker or the person who hired the test taker is a form of misconduct and fraud.

A.

The primary warning sign of a proxy testing website or organization is any guarantee that you will pass the exam without having to take it. Proxy testing sites indicate that they will provide a full credential if you send them your credit card information.

A.

Proxy testing occurs when someone takes an exam for another candidate. In other words, the candidate has passed an exam without actually sitting it.

If a candidate engages in proxy testing, that candidate will be permanently banned or prohibited from taking any future Microsoft Certification exams and may be decertified from the Microsoft Certification Program. Additionally, test scores and certifications, if applicable, may be revoked. These actions may be taken even if the candidate did not intend to defraud the Microsoft Certification Program.

If you believe that a website or company provides proxy test-taking services, please inform Microsoft immediately.

A.

Falsified score reports are reports that Microsoft deems to be unauthentic or that deceive or defraud the Microsoft Certified Professional program in any way.

A.

If Microsoft determines that a candidate has falsified a score report, the candidate will be ineligible to take any future Microsoft exams and his or her certifications may be revoked.

A.

The testing centers are provided with security policies that must be enforced in order to acquire and maintain testing center status. Ongoing inspections ensure that each testing center is maintaining the security outlined by Microsoft and the exam delivery provider. In addition, proctors at testing centers are authorized to immediately take appropriate measures against candidates who violate testing rules. For specific information about the expectations for candidates, please contact the exam delivery provider. If you have a concern about the security of your exam experience, please contact mlsecure@microsoft.com.

A.

Testing center administrators act inappropriately when they fail to follow any security policies of Microsoft or the exam delivery provider. Examples could include, but are not limited to, overlooking inappropriate candidate identification; failing to ask for an ID from each candidate; failing to conduct periodic walkthroughs; failing to keep partitions between testing stations; overlooking the presence of crib sheets or electronic devices; providing answers or aid in any form with regard to any exam item; and allowing the release of Microsoft intellectual property in any form.

A.

If Microsoft determines that a testing center has acted improperly or fraudulently, Microsoft has the right to cease delivery of all exams at that center.

A.

Send an email message to mlsecure@microsoft.com, and include as much information as possible about the situation and the persons involved. Although we appreciate anonymous tips, we often need more information to conduct a thorough investigation; if you are willing, please include your full contact information so that someone from Microsoft can contact you to discuss the details, if necessary. Microsoft has dedicated staff that investigates these tips. Because of tips from individuals like you, several websites have been terminated. Due to the volume of email we receive, you may not always receive a personal response.

A.

In order to ensure that our certifications are meaningful and valuable indicators of candidates’ skills, Microsoft has implemented a recertification requirement for MCPD: Windows Azure Developer and MCPD: Windows Phone Developer. This requirement will also apply to the upcoming Professional-level SQL Server 2012 certifications. Windows Azure and Windows Phone certifications will require recertification every two years, while SQL Server 2012 certifications will require recertification every three years. Initially, the recertification requirement will be one or two exams.

A.

Other options for fulfilling recertification requirements, such as continuing education credits, are being evaluated.

A.

Recertification ensures that Microsoft Certifications remain meaningful and valuable indicators of candidates’ skills. Recertification provides assurance to hiring managers and other stakeholders that this person has demonstrated continued competence even as the technology has changed, based on service packs, revisions, and new product version releases. Recertification is especially important for certifications that cover frequently changing technologies such as Windows Azure and SQL Azure.

A.

This requirement does not apply to MCTS certifications.

A.

This requirement applies to two existing certifications: MCPD: Windows Azure Developer and MCPD: Windows Phone Developer. The recertification requirement will also apply to Professional-level SQL Server 2012 certifications when they release in calendar year 2012.

A.

Candidates who earn an MCPD: Windows Azure Developer or MCPD: Windows Phone Developer certification will need to complete the recertification requirements every two years. Candidates who earn a Professional-level SQL Server 2012 certification will need to complete the recertification requirements within three years from the date that the certification was earned.

A.

If you do not complete the recertification requirement in the required timeframe, your transcript will show that the certification is Inactive.

A.

This recertification requirement only applies to two existing Professional-level certifications: MCPD: Windows Azure Developer and MCPD: Windows Phone Developer. Other existing certifications will be unaffected by this requirement.

A.

Certifications that require recertification will not reference a product version in the title. For example, the titles will reference “MCPD: Windows Azure Developer” and “MCPD: Windows Phone Developer.” Instead of passing an upgrade exam to earn a Professional-level certification on the next product version, you will maintain a Professional-level certification that requires recertification by passing an exam every two or three years to demonstrate your continued competence with the technology.

A.

We appreciate your feedback about the Microsoft Certification Program and your exam experience. If you have a concern about the technical accuracy of a particular item, please submit an Item Challenge form.

To report a concern about a testing center or technical difficulties experienced during your exam, please contact the exam delivery provider’s customer service.

To offer other types of feedback, please contact your Regional Service Center or the Microsoft Certification Program Help Center.

A.

We work closely with the exam delivery provider to ensure that each and every testing center delivers a satisfactory experience. Unfortunately, candidates might experience a technical issue during an exam. The exam delivery provider’s software is designed to accommodate this event and saves your responses after each item. If you have feedback about your exam experience, please contact the exam delivery provider's customer support. The exam delivery provider’s customer support will work with you and the testing center to investigate and resolve the issue.

A.

If you believe a question on a Microsoft Certification exam is inaccurate, you can request an evaluation of that question. You must submit your request within three calendar days of taking the exam. The evaluation process helps us identify and correct problematic questions and update exams accordingly.

A.

A Microsoft employee will conduct an initial evaluation. If additional evaluation is needed, an independent subject matter expert (technical and job-function expert) will review and evaluate the challenge. This process might require evaluation and input from a number of people.

A.

No. Microsoft applies a rigorous exam development process to ensure the technical accuracy, clarity, relevance, and objectivity of our exams. Furthermore, given the credentials of the independent subject matter experts and the respect they garner from the IT community, we consider their evaluation final.

A.

No. By not providing this information, we are better able to maintain exam security and the integrity of Microsoft Certifications.

A.

To help protect exam security, we keep the rationale for challenge decisions confidential although we will provide a general overview of the result. The evaluation remains a part of Microsoft records until the exam is retired. All feedback is compiled and carefully considered as Microsoft makes decisions on how to improve the overall quality of the exam.