Coronavirus has had a dramatic impact on the world, but for Microsoft professionals, it's not all bad news. Last month, the company announced the retirement of numerous certifications as it transitions fully to its new role-based system. The axing included widely recognized favorites such as MCSE, MCSD and MCSE, and as such wasn't popular with some experts.
Thankfully, they'll now have a further seven months to adapt due to finish those certifications, if they'd already started. The certifications will then be valid for a period of two years.
“We know many of you are working toward completing your Microsoft Certified Solutions Architect (MCSA), Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD), or Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) certification(s),” said Microsoft in a blog post. “We realize that the current environment could potentially hamper your ability to finish your certification before the original retirement date of June 30, 2020. To address this issue, we are extending the retirement date for these specific certifications to January 31, 2021 to give you more time to complete the exams and earn your certification.”
The decision comes as Microsoft exam delivery partners Pearson VUE closes many of its testing centers worldwide. Participants will be able to complete their exam from home, but their inability to attend work, illness and other factors could affect their ability to work towards the certifications.
As such, the company is also postponing the expiry of role-based certifications. Experts who have one expiring between now and the end of year will soon notice in their dashboard that it will remain valid for a further six months.