Microsoft Office Specialist - Frequently Asked Questions

This information has been taken from the Microsoft web site for your convenience.

A. Microsoft Office Specialist certification gives both job applicants and employees proof of their productivity, and therefore, a head start in a competitive market for jobs and promotions.

A. The program offers certifications for applications in the following Microsoft Office suites:

Microsoft Office 2000 / XP / 2003 Certification

Two types of certification are available for Office applications: core and expert. A comprehensive master certification is also available for those wishing to demonstrate the breadth of their ability by obtaining a combination of core and expert certifications in Office applications.

Q. Who benefits from the Microsoft Office Specialist program?

A. Certification distinguishes end–users of Microsoft Office products as truly knowledgeable—a designation which attracts attention in a competitive job market. Certification also demonstrates employee competence, helping managers with job placement and advancement. Hiring or promoting candidates with Certification will also reduce the amount of training needed to enable new employees to contribute to the overall level of organizational effectiveness.

A. Certification exams are not in a multiple choice format (except for Microsoft Outlook 2000 and Microsoft Project 2000 Expert which have a few multiple choice questions), nor do they require a user to rely on strict memorization. Instead, each exam is conducted within a "live" Microsoft Office application. Using an actual document, exam candidates are asked to perform a series of tasks to clearly demonstrate their skills. For example, a Microsoft Word exam may have a user to balance newspaper column lengths or keep text together in columns.

A. A typical exam takes one hour or less. Examinees are measured on both knowledge and efficiency.

A. Although exam candidates may prepare on their own, outside training and training materials (courseware) can provide the support, resources, and practice needed to become certified. When selecting training materials, ensure that the courseware carries the approved courseware logo and that the instructor has passed the appropriate exam.

There is a company on the web called MSCERT who provide practice exams which you can purchase. They also have a free demo available to down load. The web address is http://www.mscert.co.uk/livepracticetests.asp

A. All exam are administered by an iQcenter. Questions about exam schedules should be directed to the nearest testing center. Most iQcenters require preregistration. To register, contact a local center directly. Some iQcenters also accept walk-in exam candidates.

A. Exams are currently available in the following languages:

• Dutch

• English

• French

• German

• Italian

• Japanese

• Korean

• Norwegian

• Portuguese

• Spanish

• Swedish

Please check the iQcenter search tool to find the one nearest you.

A. Exam results are displayed as soon as the exam is completed. An official certificate will be mailed to successful candidates in 2–3 weeks.

To maintain a high level of security, all exam data is encrypted, and the exam process is closely monitored. The entire testing procedure is conducted within a framework of complete confidentiality. Exam results are provided only to the candidate and to Microsoft.

A. There is no limit on the number of times a given exam can be taken. However, the same fee applies to each exam.

A. Refunds are not available for failing exam scores or missed exam appointments.

A. No. Individuals who pass testing under the program are not eligible for a logo. The logo is copyrighted by Microsoft Corporation. Unauthorized duplication or use of any likeness is prohibited, unless written authorization has been granted to those participating as an iQcenter (authorized testing center for the program) or an Independent Courseware Vendor.

A. If you have additional questions or your issue is not addressed in this FAQ or on the Microsoft Training and Certification Web site, please contact Microsoft Office Specialist Customer Service by e-mail or by telephone (888) 893-0104.