MCA Program – Review Board Preparation Frequently Asked Questions

The review board interview lasts two hours.

The review board consists of Microsoft Certified Architects. In the past, known industry experts have also served on the review board at the request of Microsoft, but we now allow only current MCAs to serve. Three review board members are from the candidate's domain (either solutions or infrastructure), and the fourth member is from the other domain. Review board members receive training on how to effectively ask questions and evaluate candidates in a fair and consistent manner.

Yes, all review board members have earned the Microsoft Certified Architect credential.

The Microsoft Certified Architect program reimburses travel expenses for review board members. Additionally, a stipend is offered to help defray costs for some review board members.

No. You may not request that specific review board members evaluate you.

We recommend that you thoroughly review the program competencies and the resources provided to you upon entering the program.

No. The only way to obtain the certification is through the review board process.

To earn the Microsoft Certified Architect credential, you must demonstrate to the review board that you possess the seven program competencies at the level that the certification requires.

We do not require nor do we recommend that you share confidential information with the review board. The review board members sign a Review Board Agreement, which contains certain confidentiality obligations regarding the program; however, we cannot guarantee that disclosures you make are covered by the Review Board Agreement or will be kept confidential. It is your responsibility to ensure that you share only information that is not confidential and, if it belongs to a third party (for example, your employer or a client), information that you have permission to share.

You will receive the results of your review board interview the week following your interview.

The feedback you receive from the review board will be provided by competency, indicating whether you demonstrated the competency during the interview. Additionally, you will receive suggestions on how to improve your skills.

All review board decisions are final. However, you may reattempt the review board interview if you meet the requirements (see next question: "If I do not pass, may I interview again?").

You are granted one review board interview. If you do not pass, the review board will indicate whether you are eligible to interview again and what actions, if any, you must take before your next interview.

There is no requirement regarding the length of time you remain in the program before your review board interview.

At least one member of any given review board has served on a previous review board. Additionally, review board members receive training before they may serve on the board. Training includes instructions on how to evaluate candidates consistently.