Frequently Asked Questions About Microsoft Training

You can follow a Learning Plan, which is a step-by-step roadmap of recommended Microsoft training resources. Take advantage of this personalized learning experience, where you can choose the resource that is right for you, track your progress, and retain your learning history.

Use the Microsoft Learning Catalog to view available training courses and other offerings.

To find classes scheduled in your country/region, contact the nearest Microsoft Certified Partner for Learning Solutions, the premier training providers for Microsoft technologies.

To find a Microsoft Certified Partner(s) for Learning Solutions program you have used in the past, simply use the Microsoft Solution Finder Partners Directory by clicking the following link.

Microsoft works hard to create partnerships that benefit both our customers and training partners. If you have any feedback about any of our partners (either positive or negative), contact a customer service representative at your Microsoft Regional Service Center. We greatly value your feedback and will follow up on all concerns to maintain an exceptional training program.

Prices vary worldwide and are determined by our premier training partners, Microsoft Certified Partner(s) for Learning Solutions programs.

Certification exams are priced according to currency values in specific countries and regions. Beta exams are free and offered by invitation only to selected candidates. Exams typically cost US$125 per exam. Certification exam prices are subject to change. In some countries and regions, additional taxes may apply.

Several of our Official Microsoft Learning Products are available in an online format. Many Microsoft Certified Partner(s) for Learning Solutions programs offer solutions in a variety of formats, including classroom training; online training; and facilitated, blended learning (Microsoft Official Distance Learning).

Microsoft Official Courses help prepare certification candidates for certification exams—but that is only part of the goal. It is equally important that Microsoft courseware helps students develop the skills they need to do their jobs. Certification exams are one way to measure whether students have acquired those essential skills through experience as well as study. Ultimately, the real test is when you apply these skills on the job. From the employer's perspective, that is the test that truly counts.

MCP exams test skills and problem resolution at the highest level. However, to reach that level, a candidate may have to acquire several tiers of enabling skills. It might take more than one course to deliver those skills. Training takes you on a journey, and the exams tell you whether you have arrived.

Microsoft realizes that everyone learns in different ways. Many people learn best in a structured, hands-on, question-and-answer environment that classroom training provides. This kind of training can be suitable for those just starting on a new career path, as well as people implementing high-end technology solutions who already hold a premier certification. For these people, we recommend training offered by a Microsoft Certified Partner(s) for Learning Solutions.

Learning Plans
Enjoy immediate access to all relevant and recommended Microsoft training resources by following a Learning Plan. A Learning Plan is a step-by-step roadmap of the resources that you need to reach your learning goals

Microsoft Official Distance Learning (MODL)
MODL is an exciting new learning platform that blends classroom training, live discussion, real-world scenarios, and self-directed study into one rich and accessible desktop education experience. MODL courses are exclusively available through Microsoft Certified Partners for Learning Solutions. This training option is ideal for professionals who want the interactivity of the classroom and the flexibility of an online course.

Microsoft E-Learning
Someone who already works with Microsoft technologies in the workplace may want to complement their skills with self-paced Microsoft E-Learning. This kind of person is very self-disciplined, can easily grasp complex situations without visual representation, and typically has a background in their area of expertise.

Microsoft Press products
Whether you want to enhance your technical skills or you are preparing to deploy the latest Microsoft tools and technologies, Microsoft Press offers training materials and resources that will meet your needs. Written by industry experts and Microsoft insiders, Microsoft Press books provide accurate and up-to-date information to give you the answers that you need so you can take your skills to the next level. Although there are many books on Microsoft software available for you to purchase, we recommend books developed by Microsoft Press to ensure a consistent level of quality.

Only you can evaluate what type of learning best suits your immediate goals. Remember that hands-on experience is important to your success. Immerse yourself in an internship, or challenge yourself in your workplace to implement what you have learned.

Microsoft certifies professional trainers who have demonstrated expertise on Microsoft technologies and maintain the necessary instructional skill set demanded in today's learning environment for information technology (IT). They are called Microsoft Certified Trainers (MCTs). Certification means that these professional trainers meet the high standards that Microsoft requires for delivering Microsoft training.

For information about becoming a Microsoft Certified Partner(s) for Learning Solutions training provider, read about the requirements on the Microsoft Certified Partners Web site.

Microsoft partners with premier academic institutions that deliver IT training through the Microsoft IT Academy program. Member academies meet lab and faculty qualification specifications and provide training on the latest Microsoft curriculum for credit and noncredit students pursuing degrees, career development, and certifications.

Microsoft-approved members are identified by the Microsoft IT Academy branding in their catalogs and advertising. Seeking out college-level training providers with this special branding ensures that you are achieving the highest quality training to assist you in your Microsoft Certification goals.

Review the frequently asked questions about MCP exams and certifications. If you would like further assistance, please contact the Microsoft Regional Service Center in your area.

Microsoft Certified Partner(s) for Learning Solutions programs are professional centers that offer training to assist individuals getting started on IT careers. Instructors at these centers have the expertise to act as consultants in planning which career will be right for you and which set of curricula will map to your career choice. To locate a Microsoft Certified Partner(s) for Learning Solutions program in your area, use the Microsoft Solution Finder by clicking the following link.