Role-based Microsoft certifications replace MCSA, MCSD and MCSE certifications

Q: What happens to the MCSA, MCSD, MCSE certifications that I already have?

A: Nothing happens to the MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE certification that you already have; they remain on your certification transcript even after the exams retire. In fact, it will remain in the active section of your transcript for two years from January 31, 2021; at that time the certification will be moved to the “inactive” section of your transcript.

Q: Can I still achieve the MCSA, MCSD, MCSE certifications before they retire on January 31, 2021?

A: Yes, you can continue earning the MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE certifications as long as the required exams are still available. As we retire the exams that are part of those certification paths, you will no longer be able to earn those certifications.

Q: You’re retiring exams that lead to the MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE certification(s) that I am pursuing. What should I do?

A: Before the exams expire, you must pass all required exams which are a part of the MCSA, MCSD, or MCSE certification(s) that you are trying to achieve. If you pass the required exams before they expire, you will earn the certification and it will appear on your certification transcript.

Q: If Microsoft is focused on role-based certifications, what will happen to Windows Server and SQL Server certifications? Will there be Windows Server 2019 and SQL Server 2019 certifications available?

A: No, there will not be Windows Server 2019 and SQL Server 2019 certifications. Windows Server 2019 and SQL Server 2019 content will be included in role-based certifications on an as-needed basis for certain job roles in the Azure Apps & Infrastructure and Data & AI solution areas.

Q: How do the exam retirements affect Microsoft partner competencies if my company is a part of the partner network?

A: If you passed a qualifying exam prior to its retirement, it will still count toward competency attainment for 12 months after the exam is retired. If you have not passed the required exams, please see this overview document for the full list of retiring and new exams and certifications required for competency attainment and renewal. The new exams and certifications will be available in Partner Center in March 2020.

Q: Does having the MCSE Productivity Solutions Expert certification still meet pre-requisite requirements for the Microsoft 365 Certified: Enterprise Administrator Expert role-based certification?

A: The MCSE Productivity Solutions Expert certification will meet one of the pre-requisite requirement options for the Microsoft 365 Certified: Enterprise Administrator Expert until June 30, 2022.

Q: Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certifications are product-based certifications. Will they be retired as a part of this?

A: No, MOS certifications are not being affected by this retirement.

Q: Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) certifications are product-based certifications. Will they be retired as a part of this?

A: No, MTA certifications are not being affected by this retirement.