Microsoft Certification Exams Now Available Online

Exams for two kinds of Microsoft certification can now be taken online from remote locations.

In an agreement between Pearson VUE, which provides computer-based testing for a number of different certification programs, and Microsoft, exams for the Microsoft Certified Professional and Microsoft Technology Associate certification can be taken via "online proctoring" as well as the traditional on-site testing locations already available.

The partnership means that certification candidates who do not live within easy travel distance of a live testing center can take them in their homes or office, all while protecting the integrity of the certification process. Candidates for the online exams will pay the same price as those taking onsite exams.

Certain security arrangements will be required for individuals who want to take the exams from their homes or offices. For one thing, a clean, private room or office with desk space must be clearly visible via webcam. Candidates will be supervised in real time for the exams by Pearson VUE employees using webcams, microphones and other security protocols.

Those taking the exam must also undergo an ID check with a greeter before the testing begins. The proctor has been trained to look for signs of cheating and will require the test taker to do a visual sweep of the room with the webcam in advance.

"It's all about adding convenience by enabling people to take an exam where they live or work," said Microsoft Learning Experiences General Manager Alison Cunard.

Candidates for the two Microsoft certification programs can still take the test onsite through the end of the year at either Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers. However, beginning Jan. 1, Pearson VUE will be the exclusive exam provider for Microsoft certification programs.

"We're excited to see where this partnership takes us," said Pearson VUE President and CEO Bob Whelan. "We're changing the landscape to increase skills validation and open new doors to career success."

Beta testing for the online testing will be available through the end of the year only in the United States. After Jan. 1, it will be available around the world.

Those wishing to take either online or onsite tests can register at microsoft.com.

About the Author

Michael Hart is a Los Angeles-based freelance writer and the former executive editor of THE Journal.

Featured

  • classroom scene with students gathered around a laptop showing a virtual tour interface

    Discovery Education Announces Spring Lineup of Free Virtual Field Trips

    This Spring, Discovery Education is collaborating with partners such as Warner Bros., DC Comics, National Science Foundation, NBA, and more to present a series of free virtual field trips for K-12 students.

  • glowing padlock shape integrated into a network of interconnected neon-blue lines and digital nodes, set against a soft, blurred geometric background

    3 in 4 Administrators Expect a Security Incident to Impact Their School This Year

    In an annual survey from education identity platform Clever, 74% of administrators admitted that they believe a security incident is likely to impact their school system in the coming year. That's up from 71% who said the same last year.

  • horizontal stack of U.S. dollar bills breaking in half

    ED Abruptly Cancels ESSER Funding Extensions

    The Department of Education has moved to close the door on COVID relief funding for schools, declaring that "extending deadlines for COVID-related grants, which are in fact taxpayer funds, years after the COVID pandemic ended is not consistent with the Department’s priorities and thus not a worthwhile exercise of its discretion."

  • pattern of icons for math and reading, including a pi symbol, calculator, and open book

    HMH Launches Personalized Path Solution

    Adaptive learning company HMH has introduced HMH Personalized Path, a K-8 ELA and math product that combines intervention curriculum, adaptive practice, and assessment for students of all achievement levels.