The era of globalization has brought about profound changes in various industries, creating a noticeable transformation across the world. Among these changes, one of the most prominent shifts is occurring within the IT sector, which is experiencing rapid growth. If you have aspirations to establish a career as a Microsoft Azure Certified Developer, undertaking the Microsoft Azure AZ-203 exam becomes a crucial milestone on your path. Stay with us as we delve into the specifics of the exam and provide further insights into preparation strategies.
Microsoft AZ-203 is retired. A new replacement exam Developing Solutions for Microsoft Azure (AZ-204) is available.
Why AZ-203 Microsoft Azure Developing Solution exam?
Microsoft Azure stands out as a leading player in the realm of cloud computing platforms. Therefore, opting for the AZ-203 Exam is a strategic choice for several compelling reasons:
Microsoft offers candidates a streamlined path to attain the Microsoft Azure Developing Solutions certification by providing enhanced learning opportunities.
Becoming a Certified Azure Developer bestows upon individuals a coveted job title within the domain of cloud technology. This designation not only brings lucrative job prospects but also promises a solid and rewarding career trajectory.
As an added incentive, the Microsoft AZ-203 exam holds the status of being an expert-level certification assessment. While undoubtedly challenging, conquering this exam will yield substantial rewards.
Hence, equip yourself with the essential resources and preparatory materials and embark on your journey. However, before diving headlong into intensive exam preparation, let’s take a brief pause to gather some fundamental details about the AZ-103 exam.
Microsoft Azure AZ-203 Exam Overview
In today’s landscape, cloud certifications have emerged as a crucial and highly prized asset. Within the IT sector, they hold a position of utmost significance, signifying the pinnacle of a professional’s integration into the field. In an industry where organizations are eager to generously compensate for valuable skills, a certification bestowed by Microsoft can confer a distinct advantage, propelling one’s career to new heights.
Delving into specifics, the Microsoft Azure Developing Solutions AZ-203 Exam is a composite of both the retired Microsoft AZ-200 and Microsoft AZ-201 exams. While these individual components have been phased out, successfully clearing the Microsoft Azure AZ-203 exam will confer the coveted ‘Azure Developer Associate’ certification upon you.
Aligned with its name, the Microsoft Azure Developing Associate: AZ-203 Exam revolves around the domain of development. For aspiring candidates, it is pivotal to possess prior knowledge or a minimum of one year’s experience in cloud computing, given the exam’s nature and focus.
Microsoft Azure AZ- 203 Exam Details
You’re certainly on the right track if you’re eager to delve into every intricacy of the exam. Rest assured, your decision to do so is well-founded. Now, let’s explore some comprehensive insights provided by Microsoft Azure administrators.
Exam Details
| Exam Name | Microsoft Azure Developing Solutions |
| Exam Code | AZ-203 |
| Prerequisites | Prior Knowledge in development of scalable solutions |
| Exam Cosr | 165 USD |
| Total Questions | 40-60 Questions |
| Passing Score | 700 on a scale of 1000 |
| Exam Duration | 150 minutes |
Prerequisites for AZ-203 Exam
Following are the prerequisites to take up AZ-203 Exam –
- A minimum of one year’s experience or a solid foundation in building scalable solutions is necessary.
- Mastery of at least one programming language supported by cloud platforms is essential.
- Additionally, you need to possess expertise in creating applications and services using Azure tools and technologies, encompassing aspects such as storage, security, compute, and communication.
Mark our words, if you are lacking in any of these skills, chances are you may not be able to qualify this exam. So make sure are well skilled before appearing for Microsoft AZ-203 exam.
Exam Course Outline
The AZ-203 exam, known as “Developing Solutions for Microsoft Azure,” is akin to other Azure exams in many respects. However, AZ-203 covers content from both AZ-200 and AZ-201 exams, adding a bit more material to your study load. Don’t fret; we’re here to break it all down for you. If you’ve previously taken other Azure role-based exams, you’re in luck—you’re already familiar with exam policies, patterns, scoring, and related topics. For those who are new to this, there’s no need to be overwhelmed. We’ve presented each subject matter in an easily understandable manner, so you won’t have any unnecessary worries. While the exact number of questions in the Microsoft AZ-203 exam may vary, you can generally anticipate around 40 to 60 questions. The exam’s duration is limited to 150 minutes, so efficient time management is key to your success.
Now, let’s dive into gaining a foundational understanding of each module step by step. As this is an expert-level certification, the exam will be somewhat challenging. Approach it seriously, as Microsoft has thoughtfully organized various modules to facilitate your learning and preparation. Below, you’ll find a breakdown of all the modules.
A little heads up for you people – The content of this exam was updated on November 6, 2019 and these are the revised skills.
Module 1: Developing Azure Infrastructure as a Service compute solution (10-15%)
The first and foremost module covers about 10-15% of the examination question. Further this has been sub categorized under three more subtopics.
Implementing solutions that are used by virtual machines (VM)
- Provisioning VMs
- Creating ARM templates
- Configuring Azure Disk Encryption for VMs
Implementing batch jobs by the use of Azure Batch Services
- Managing batch jobs with the help of Batch Service API
- Running a batch job with the help of Azure CLI, Azure portal, and other tools
- Writing code to run an Azure Batch Services batch job
Create containerized solutions
- Creating Azure Managed Kubernetes Service (AKS) cluster
- Creating container images for solutions
- Publishing an image to the Azure Container Registry
- Running containers with the help of Azure Container Instance or AKS
Module 2: Developing Azure Platform as a Service compute solution (20-25%)
This particular module is one of the most important among all. Since this particular module covers about 20-25% of the exam. This is further divided into four subtopics.
Creating Azure App Service Web Apps
- Creating Azure App Service Web App
- Creating Azure App Service background task with the help of using WebJobs
- Enabling diagnostics logging
- Creating Azure Web App for containersMonitoring service heath by using Azure Monitor
Creating Azure App Service mobile apps
- Adding push notifications for mobile apps
- Enabling offline sync for mobile app
- Implementing remote instrumentation strategy for mobile devices
Creating Azure App Service API apps
- Creating an Azure App Service API app
- Creating documentation for the API by using open source and other tools
Implementing Azure functions
- Implementation of input and output bindings for a function
- Implementation of function triggers with the help of data operations, timers, and webhooks
- Implementing Azure Durable Functions Creation of any Azure Function apps by using Visual Studio
- Implementing Python Azure functions
Module 3: Development for Azure storage (15 – 20%)
This particular module is relevantly important too, as this covers almost 15-20% of AZ-203 exam. This module comprises of just four subtopics, which are as follows.
Developing of solutions that make use of storage tables
- Designing and implementation of policies for tables
- Query table storage with the help of code
- Implementing partitioning schemes
Developing of solutions that make use of Cosmos DB storage
- Creating, reading, updating, and deleting data with the help of appropriate APIs
- Implementing partitioning schemes
- Setting of the appropriate consistency level for operations
Developing of solutions that make use of a relational database
- Provisioning and configuring relational databases
- Configuring of elastic pools for Azure SQL Database
- Creating, reading, updating, and deleting data tables with the help of code
- Provisioning and configuring Azure SQL Database serverless instances
- Provisioning and configuring Azure SQL and Azure PostgreSQL Hyperscale instances
Developing solutions that make use of blob storage
- Moving items in Blob storage between storage accounts or containers
- Setting and retrieving properties and metadata
- Implementing blob leasing
- Implementing data archiving and retention
- Implementing Geo Zone Redundant storage
Module 4: Implementing Azure Security (10-15%)
This section has a weight age of 10-15% in the exam. Further categorized under three basic subcategories.
Implementing authentication
- Implementing authentication by making use of certificates, forms-based authentication, or token
- Implementing multi-factor or Windows authentication by making use of Azure AD
- Implementing OAuth2 authentication
- Implementing Managed identities/Service Principal authentication
- Implementing Microsoft identity platform
Implementing access control
- Implementing CBAC (Claims-Based Access Control) authorization
- Implementing RBAC (Role-Based Access Control) authorization
- Creating shared access signatures
Implementing secure data solutions
- Encrypting and decrypting the data at rest and in transit
- Creating, reading, updating, and deleting keys, secrets, and certificates by making use of the KeyVault API
Module 5: Monitor, troubleshoot, and optimize Azure Solutions (10-15%)
This module is also as important as are the above mentioned modules for Microsoft AZ-203 exam. Though this module only covers 10-15% of the AZ-203 exam. It also includes some of the important topics. Let’s get this over this people.
Developing code to support scalability of apps and services
- Implementing autoscaling rules and patterns (schedule, operational/system metrics, singleton applications)
- Implementing code that handles transient faults
- Implementing AKS scaling strategies
Integration of caching and content delivery within solutions
- Storing and retrieving data in Azure Redis cache
- Developing code to implement CDN’s in solutions
- Invalidating cache content (CDN or Redis)
Instrument solutions for providing support monitoring and logging
- Configuring instrumentation in an app or service by making use of Application Insights
- Analysis and troubleshoot solutions by making use of Azure Monitor
- Implementing Application Insights Web Test and Alerts
Module 6: Connection and consumption of Azure services and third-party services (20-25%)
This module covers 20-25% of the questions in Microsoft AZ-203 exam that is going to come from this particular section. This is also further divided into five sections.
Developing of an App Service Logic App
- Creating a Logic App
- Creating a custom connector for Logic Apps
- Creating a custom template for Logic Apps
Integrating Azure Search within solutions
- Creating an Azure Search index
- Importing searchable data
- Querying the Azure Search index
- Implementing cognitive search
Implementation of API management
- Establishing API Gateways
- Creating an APIM instance
- Configuring authentication for APIs
- Defining of policies for APIs
Developing of event-based solutions
- Creating solutions that use Azure Event Grid
- Implementing solutions that use Azure Notification Hubs
- Implementing solutions that use Azure Event Hub
Developing of message-based solutions
- Implementing solutions that use Azure Service Bus
- Implementing solutions that use Azure Queue Storage queues
The revised list of modules covered in this exam demands thorough attention and practical experience. Therefore, it’s crucial to thoroughly prepare yourself before considering taking the Microsoft AZ-203 exam. When you’re confident in your readiness to tackle the AZ-203 exam, go ahead and schedule your exam session.
Exam Scoring Process
To attain the status of a Microsoft Certified Azure Developer, you must achieve a score of 700 or higher on the AZ-203 exam. However, any score below 700 will not meet the qualification threshold. Your exam results will be readily visible shortly after submitting the AZ-203 exam. Yet, if you’re interested in receiving a comprehensive breakdown of your exam performance, you should expect to wait a few days for your scorecard to provide you with a detailed overview of your performance on the AZ-203 exam.
Exam Retake Policy
If your initial attempt at the AZ-203 exam didn’t yield a passing result, there’s no need to feel disheartened. You have the opportunity for a retest. However, our recommendation is to opt for a retest only if you’re truly confident in your preparation this time around. It’s important not to burden yourself and instead give your best effort. According to Microsoft’s guidelines:
- If an individual does not achieve a passing score on the exam during their first attempt, they must wait for a minimum of 24 hours before rescheduling the AZ-203 exam.
- If an individual does not achieve a passing score on the second attempt as well, they must observe a waiting period of at least 14 days before rescheduling the AZ-203 exam for the third time.
It’s noteworthy that this mandatory 14-day waiting period applies to both the fourth and fifth consecutive exam retakes. It’s important to acknowledge that no candidate is allowed to take the same exam more than five times within a year (12 months).
It’s always better to give your 100% in the very first attempt so get ready and start practicing AZ-203 Free Practice Test Now!
Exam Cancellation Policy
Some of the cases of cancellation include –
- If you intend to cancel or reschedule your exam, it’s essential to do so at least 6 business days before the scheduled exam time. This ensures that there are no cancellation charges.
- However, if a cancellation or rescheduling occurs within 5 business days of the exam, a nominal fee will be charged.
- In instances where you fail to reschedule or cancel your appointment within 24 hours of the scheduled time, the complete exam fee will be forfeited.
Exam Pricing for AZ-203
For individuals residing in the United States, the fee for taking the Microsoft Azure Developing Solutions AZ-203 exam is $165 USD. However, please note that this fee may vary from country to country. It’s important to keep in mind that the fee does not include applicable taxes. To obtain precise information about the fee, it’s advisable to verify with your exam provider.
It’s worth mentioning that students might be eligible for a fee reduction when it comes to the AZ-203 exam, provided they submit valid educational credentials.
How to schedule AZ-203 Exam?
You need to follow the given steps in the process of scheduling the exam –
- Go to the Microsoft portal and register for exam.
- When you are done with preparations go ahead and schedule your exam by clicking on the “schedule exam” link.
- Fill all your details on the next page.
- You can select the exam delivery option on the page of Pearson VUE, Microsoft’s exam partner.
- Your registration will complete once there’s a confirmation on the payment of your exam fee.
How to prepare for AZ-203 exam?
With a comprehensive understanding of the exam, you’re well-equipped to explore the appropriate preparation resources and reliable content to get ready for the Microsoft Azure AZ-203 Exam. Ensure you include the following resources in your preparation plan and embark on your journey to successfully pass the AZ-203 Exam.
Learning Resource 1 – Microsoft Learning Platform
Gaining insights from the official Microsoft website is crucial when seeking details and updates about the AZ-203 exam. Starting by visiting the official source ensures you obtain the most reliable and up-to-date information about the exam. The dedicated AZ-203 page provides a comprehensive overview of the exam, including its pattern, covered modules, study materials, and any recent changes or updates. Furthermore, Microsoft offers a range of online learning resources on their website, offering an in-depth understanding of every aspect related to the AZ-203 exam.
Learning Resource 2 – Microsoft Documentation
It’s essential to differentiate between Microsoft documentation and the Microsoft learning portal, as each platform serves distinct learning purposes. Engaging with Microsoft documentation enables you to grasp the fundamental principles of a Microsoft Azure expert’s solution architect role. Furthermore, you can explore the varying scales of different Azure services, enhancing your comprehension. This approach ensures that you remain well-aligned with industry trends and continuously acquire new insights into the array of Azure technologies delivered by seasoned experts.
Learning Resources 3 – Instructor Led Training
Microsoft also offers a variety of training options, including both online courses and instructor-led training. It’s worth noting that you should explore their portal for instructor-led training opportunities. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with limited time slots amidst their ongoing commitments. These classes are entirely flexible, allowing you to schedule them according to your convenience. Once you’ve identified a Microsoft training partner, you can easily visit their website to book your preferred training sessions.
Learning Resource 4 – Books and Online Resources
We comprehend your apprehension about the AZ-203 exam. Our recommendation is that you explore reputable sources for books related to the AZ-203 exam. If you’re considering magazines and scholarly journals, make sure to verify their reliability before relying on them. Apart from books, there are other valuable learning resources available, such as:
Exam Ref AZ-203: Developing Solutions for Microsoft Azure by Santiago Fernández Muñoz
Learning Resource 5 – Forums and Study Groups
This specific step isn’t obligatory in your preparation journey. Whether you choose to join a study group or forum depends on your preference. You have the option to join a study group at any stage of your preparation. However, it can prove to be advantageous. Study groups offer the benefit of connecting with fellow individuals who are on a similar journey. They create a platform where you can seek help for topics you find challenging. Many participants in these study groups are capable of assisting you with any queries you may have related to the AZ-203 exam.
Learning Resource 6 – Practice Exam
We’ve reached the final phase of preparing for the AZ-203 exam. This concluding step offers you a precise perspective on your current standing. Are you prepared for a self-assessment? It’s essential to tackle sample tests after thoroughly covering the entire syllabus. These practice exams are meticulously designed to simulate the real exam environment. Upon completing these sample tests, you’ll gain valuable insights into your areas of weakness that require improvement. You can source practice papers from various outlets. Keep in mind that the more you challenge yourself with testing, the more you’ll enhance your skills. So, embark on this journey without delay.
Exam Day
The long-awaited day is here at last! No need to stress out. We’re aware of your diligent studying and extensive preparation. You’ve come this far, and you’ve got what it takes to conquer this challenge. We have full faith in your abilities. As you step into the exam, keep a few key points in mind:
- Stay calm under pressure. Anxiety can hinder your focus during the exam.
- Avoid overthinking. It’s natural to feel nervous, but strive to maintain your composure.
- Take a deep breath and trust that you’ll do well. You’ve got this!
Conclusion
If you’re driven to elevate your career and driven by a determination to chase your aspirations, the Microsoft Azure Administrator AZ-203 exam serves as the ultimate stride in your path toward becoming a Microsoft Azure Developing Associate. Certification programs like AZ-203 not only validate your job-ready skills but also spotlight your unwavering dedication to realizing your dreams. Furthermore, embracing training and certification can substantially enhance your professional journey, contributing to favorable financial outcomes as well.
