Microsoft Certification Exam Update: 2021

Microsoft is well known for providing the latest technologies in their business globally. And, the same goes for the Microsoft certification exam. We all are familiar with what happened in 2020. Covid-19 has affected everyone’s life. As a result, Microsoft Certifications also faced many challenges with the exams and its training programs. However, getting over that, Microsoft always ensured that they remain relevant and technically accurate for certification exams. Therefore, in 2021, expect many updates and modifications happening whether related to the content/topic or retirement of an exam. In this article, we will cover everything related to Microsoft certification exams.

To summarize, we will cover:

• Firstly, Microsoft Certification types with exam number.
• Secondly, Both retiring and soon to be retired exams.
• Then, Microsoft Helpful resources.

So, let’s get started with the Microsoft certification overview.

Microsoft Certifications: Changes in the Exam

We are well familiar with the fact that the certifications are rapidly increasingly relevant in our skills-based economy, especially in the IT space. Whether you’re in your first IT job or you’re a seasoned professional, Microsoft provides certifications for both. As Microsoft certifications are categorized level-wise with providing a pathway to lead towards your goal. However, Microsoft has several updates in its exam as many of the exams are retiring this year. So, before moving on to the list of exams retiring, firstly, let’s check the list of all the exams that Microsoft provides.

To make it easier to understand, below you can see the exams categorized on the basis of certifications. This include:

Above, we have checked the list of exams modifications that Microsoft has. Now, moving onto the next section, the list of Microsoft latest exams.

In the next section, we will talk about the Mirosoft retiring exams.

Microsoft Retiring Certification Exams

With the rapid increase of cloud-based job roles, it is necessary to get up to date with the latest technology and skills. Likewise,  some job roles also become less relevant over time. Related to this, Microsoft works with internal and external subject matter experts to decide what to do about the existing certification. In most cases, there are replacement with a job role certification that’s more relevant and valuable to partners, and organizations. However, below you can check the list of exams that are retiring in 2021 and also the exam which will retire soon.

Check out the list of Microsoft exam retiring.

To get more information about the retired exams you can go through the Microsoft Retired Exams Page.

Exam Recap to 2020

The previous year(2020), Microsoft updated its term in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19).  There were several updates that Microsoft, together with our partner ecosystem, adopted as per the environment. This was for ensuring that all of you can continue to learn and get certified on Microsoft technologies while staying safe.  

Let’s take a look at those changes.

• Firstly, the closing of Testing centers and online proctoring capacity increasing. Where online proctoring allows you to take your certification exam in the comfort of your own home or office. 
• Secondly, reschedule and cancellation fees waived. There will be no charge if you reschedule or cancel at least 24 hours prior to your appointment, rather than the six-day window required under our current policy. 
• Thirdly, the retirement of MCSA, MCSD, MCSE certifications, and related exams extended.
• Next, expiring role-based certifications extended.
• Exam voucher and discount offer expiration date extended.
• Lastly, moving to virtual training and using Microsoft Learn.

Things you must know

• In March 2021, you’ll be able to renew your role-based and specialty certifications by passing a free renewal assessment on Microsoft Learn. However, rather than having to retake the scheduled exam, the renewal assessment can be completed online on your own time, and anytime within six months before your certification expires. After you pass the renewal assessment, your certification is extended by one additional year from the current expiration date.
• Secondly, Microsoft is updating the validity for role-based and specialty certifications to one year from the date you earned them. This is starting in June 2021 and this change will take effect for newly earned certifications.

Microsoft Useful Resources

Microsoft offers a catalog of free, online training at your fingertips. This also includes interactive-coding environments and role-based learning paths for helping you to learn about a specific topic area. However, with using Microsoft Learn, anyone can master core concepts at their speed and on their schedule. 

Further, there are additional resources that can help you get started with your exam preparation. This include:

Instructor-led Courses

• Microsoft provides instructor-led courses that come with in-classroom and on-demand training on Microsoft technologies, provided by Microsoft Certified Trainers. These courses will help you in learning new skills and discover the power of Microsoft products with step-by-step guidance.

Exam Practice Tests

• Practice tests are important for having better preparation. With these tests, you will be able to assess yourself as well as to know about your weak and strong areas. But, what’s important is to get the best available practice tests. So, find the best source to get the unique exam practice tests.

Expert’s Corner

Holding Microsoft certification can help you improve your business and expand your opportunities for hiring and promotion. With regular updates in the exam, you will be able to enhance your skills and knowledge according to the latest demand. Moreover,  the job market for Microsoft certification is showing a big jump. But, for achieving the goal it is important to work hard. And, to help you in your journey you can use various valuable resources, training as well as practice tests to clear the exam.

Enrich your job profile by adding Microsoft Certification in your CV. Pass the Microsoft Exam Now!