Microsoft Delays Retirement of MCSE, MCSA, and MCSD Certifications

A few weeks ago, Microsoft made a significant announcement regarding several of its popular certifications. The company announced that Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD), Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) certifications would be retired on June 30, 2020.

But, because of the current COVID-19 prevention tactics have required nearly everyone to stay at home, Microsoft is going to extend the life of these certifications. While the company is not backtracking on its retirement position, you now have until January 31, 2021, to obtain the certification.

The reason for this is obvious, testing centers are closed and meeting the objectives to obtain these certifications before June 30th, the previous retirement date, is now nearly impossible.

The company outlines several other changes that should make obtaining certifications easier. In partnership with Pearson VUE, the companies are temporarily waiving exam reschedule and cancellation fees. Further, if you had a certification that was set to expire between now and December 31st, your certification will be extended by six months.

There are other changes including if you have a voucher or discount offer expiring between March 26 and August 31, 2020, it will be extended until January 31, 2021.

Given the current environment, these are the right moves for Microsoft to make as there are many IT Pros looking to obtain these certifications before the door shuts on them forever. But, it’s clear that Microsoft is continuing to push people towards its cloud solutions and away from on-premises offerings. At this point, you either adopt the cloud or take a seat on Microsoft’s backburner.