Microsoft Certifications > Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS)

Steps to Microsoft Office Specialist Certification

Updated: March 21, 2007

Microsoft Office Specialist Certification exams evaluate your overall comprehension of Microsoft Office programs, your ability to use their advanced features, and your ability to integrate them with other software programs. This step-by-step guide walks you through the certification process.



Identify Your Goals
Identify Your Goals

Identify your personal goals for certification. For example, do you want to take one exam to demonstrate a strong knowledge of the word processing tools in Microsoft Office Word, or do you want to set the long-term goal of becoming a Microsoft Office Specialist certified at the master level by successfully completing a series of Microsoft Office Specialist Certification exams? Use the information available from the following links to help you better define your goals and to learn more about which Microsoft Office Specialist Certification credential is best for you.



Assess Your Skills
Assess Your Skills

Assess your existing knowledge of the desktop program based on experience, training, and personal needs. In selecting the appropriate Microsoft Office Specialist Certification exam, consider the following:

The amount of time you have used the Microsoft Office programs

The frequency and depth of your experience with each program

The version of the program with which you are most familiar

The core-level Microsoft Office Specialist Certification exams test your ability to complete a wide range of standard business tasks. Expert-level certification exams test your ability to complete complex assignments that require advanced formatting and functionality, as well as standard business tasks.



Prepare for the Exams
Prepare for the Exams

Prepare for the certification exams. You may want to supplement practice with live or online training. The exam skill standards and exam preparation guides will help you identify the key areas to study.

Use these resources to understand which skills are tested.

Find study materials and practice exams that will advance and confirm your mastery of desktop program skills.

You nearest testing center may offer professional training.



Take the Exams
Take the Exams

Take the exams to become certified. Use the authorized testing center locator to find a center near you. Then, review the exam-day information and exam tips to help you prepare.

Find an authorized testing center in your area to register and take an exam.

Review Microsoft Office Specialist Certification exam tips.

Become familiar with the format and functionality of Microsoft Office Specialist certification exams by viewing a demonstration exam.


Use Your Credential to Prove Your Expertise
Use Your Credential to Prove Your Expertise

Now that you are certified, make your Office Specialist Certification known by adding it to your resumé, showing it to your manager, and telling your colleagues.


If you have additional questions about Microsoft Office Specialist Certification, contact Microsoft Office Specialist customer service at services@certiport.com or call (888) 222-7890.