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Velvet Digest

Are Microsoft exams hard?

Author

Ethan Hayes

Updated on May 22, 2026

Microsoft certification exams are usually hard, really hard. They are generally not very fun to take. The exams dive into minutia, asking questions that people with years of experience can't answer.

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Subsequently, one may also ask, how do I study for Microsoft exams?

The following are practical tips and resources to help you study for your Microsoft certification exam.

  1. Establish a Study Routine.
  2. Review Topics Covered on the Exam.
  3. Find Study Materials.
  4. Take Notes While Studying.
  5. Practice Using the Technology.
  6. Take Practice Exams.
  7. Relax on Exam Day.

Also Know, what is the passing score for Microsoft certification? The passing score for microsoft exams is 700(they have not mentioned anything wrt the %age).

Beside above, is MCSA difficult?

MCSA Certification Cost Microsoft exams have a reputation for being challenging, and it's not uncommon for learners to take an exam more than once. Microsoft is aware that their exams are difficult. Most years, it offers an Exam Replay, allowing an exam retake at a fraction of the original cost.

How long does it take to get Excel certified?

Step 4: Take Certification Exams. The final step is to take the certification exam or exams. MOS certification exams are only administered through testing centers authorized by Microsoft. Each certification exam takes about 90 minutes to complete.

Related Question Answers

Is Microsoft certification free?

You can sign up for in-person training, take free online training courses at Microsoft Virtual Academy (MVA), and download free e-books from Microsoft Press to help you prepare for your exam.

How much does a Microsoft certification cost?

The individual Microsoft certification cost of the Associate and Expert level exams is typically $165 USD** per exam. This is the cost to take the exam; regardless if you pass or fail. The cost to take the Microsoft certification “Associate” and “Expert” level exams is typically $165 USD** per exam.

Which Microsoft certification is best for beginners?

Top 10 IT Certifications for Beginners
  • Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
  • PMP: Project Management Professional.
  • CISA: Certified Information Systems Auditor.
  • CCDA: Cisco Certified Design Associate.
  • CCNP Routing and Switching.
  • MCSE: Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer.
  • ITIL v3 Foundation.
  • Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

How do I prepare for my exams?

Today, we are sharing tips and tricks that will allow you to pass your certification exam regardless of which type of certification you are aiming for.
  1. Review the Exam Blueprint.
  2. Review the Exam References.
  3. Take as Many Exam Practice Questions as You Can.
  4. Take a Self – Assessment Exam.
  5. Take an Exam Review Course.

How do I start preparing for Microsoft?

Who we are
  1. First you should apply. The best place to start is here.
  2. Do your due diligence.
  3. Know where you want to go.
  4. Work well with others.
  5. Showcase the qualities we're looking for.
  6. Demonstrate your thinking.
  7. Be yourself.
  8. See the landscape.

Can I take Microsoft certification exams online?

You can take MCP or Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) exams online in the comfort of your home or office while being monitored by a proctor via webcam and microphone. (MTA exams purchased through a K-12 school are not available online.)

How do I prepare for MCSE certification?

One must understand that one need to prepare for the MCSE Certification Exams very systematically.
  1. Set Yourself a Goal (or Target)
  2. Finding the Objectives of Exam.
  3. Course Material.
  4. Review Time.
  5. The Importance of Coach.
  6. Gather Information and update Yourself.
  7. Real Time Practice.
  8. Correct Material and Online Services.

Where can I take a Microsoft certification exam?

In-person or online. You can take certification exams with Pearson VUE in person at an Authorized Test Center or online in the comfort of your home or office while being monitored by an offsite proctor.

Is the MCSA worth it?

MCSA certification is well worth the time and effort, paving the way for both immediate job opportunities and long-term success with more in-depth MCSE training.

How long does it take to learn MCSA?

An MCSA or MCSE live classroom course can take between three and seven days, or you can take an MOC online course on your own time. Depending on the number of exams you need to take to finally earn your MCSE, you can expect to spend anywhere between a week and several months taking prep courses.

How do I pass MCSA 70 740?

So, to help you pass first time, these are our 10 tips to pass the MCSA 70-740 exam:
  1. Use the Microsoft Virtual Academy.
  2. Use a 70-410 revision guide.
  3. Join a Microsoft forum.
  4. Take a 70-410 practice test.
  5. Take a MCSA 70-740 course.
  6. Avoid brain dumps.
  7. Download a trial version of Windows Server.
  8. Join a Microsoft study group.

Is CCNA harder than MCSA?

The CCENT isn't that hard from what I hear, but the CCNA is. The MCSA is hard too, but don't need as high of a score to pass the exams.

What does MCSA stand for?

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate

How long does it take to get MCSA 2016?

The MCSA: Windows Server 2016 certification is made up of three exams, all of which are covered by CBT Nuggets training. Typically, learners pursuing this certification path should have some familiarity (1-3 years) with Windows Server and experience working in an enterprise environment.

How long do Microsoft certifications last?

In the case of some certifications, exams are retired and revamped as often as every six months. It is important for every IT professional to stay updated with the latest information, but obviously re-taking a certification test every 6 months is unrealistic. For most Microsoft certifications, it is unnecessary.

How many questions does 70 740 exam have?

47 questions

Is MCSA 2012 still valid?

MCSA does not expire, MCSE requires re-certification. But MCSA will have newer versions that you can upgrade to, to stay up to date. For MCSA 2012 you need to pass exam 70-743 tp upgrade to MCSA 2016.

What happens if you fail a Microsoft exam?

Beta exams may be taken only once during the beta period. If the candidate passes the exam, it counts toward credit for the certification. If the candidate fails the exam, it can be retaken per the policies above. This policy supersedes the general retake policy.

Do Microsoft certs expire?

Microsoft Certifications No Longer Expire That's no longer the case. Last year, Microsoft announced the MCSA, MCSE, and MCSD certifications do not expire. Instead, Microsoft initiated a new status system for its certifications — Active or Legacy. “Active” certifications refer to two things.