The Microsoft Technology Associate certification is an entry-level certification designed to help individuals take the first step toward a career as an IT professional or developer. An MTA certification is based on 70 percent knowledge and 30 percent skills. The next step in the Microsoft certification path is Microsoft Technology Specialist (MCTS), which requires hands-on experience with the Microsoft technology platform.

At this time, the MTA certification is available to students, faculty, and staff of accredited academic institutions and to Microsoft Certified Trainers (MCT’s).If you already have an in-depth understanding of and hands-on experience with Microsoft technologies, you might want to start with a Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) certification or one of our Professional Series tracks, which includes the Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) and the Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD) certifications. If you are a student, changing careers, just starting your career, or exploring a technology career, earning an MTA certification will help guide your career planning.

Millions of people worldwide would like to pursue a career in technology,but many lack the foundational knowledge necessary to pursue our Specialist Series (MCTS) or Professional Series (MCITP or MCPD) certifications. The MTA certification creates a new entry point to help people jumpstart their career aspirations.

Each MTA certification exam covers a broad technology area, such as web development or network fundamentals. Software Development Fundamentals Windows Development Fundamentals Web Development Fundamentals Database Fundamentals Windows Server Administration Fundamentals Networking Fundamentals Security Fundamentals .Net Fundamentals Windows OS Fundamentals Mobile Development Fundamentals Gaming Development Fundamentals HTML5 Application Development Fundamentals

Earning an MTA certification can help you stand out when you are applying to colleges or for internships. This certification helps prove your knowledge of fundamental technology concepts. Having a validated certification from Microsoft can help you launch a successful career. Earning an MTA certification can be the first step toward becoming a Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS). When you earn an MTA certification, you become a member of our Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) community. You get access to members-only benefits, such as special offers, a transcript tool, and private newsgroups where you can network, find peer support, and share your accomplishments with millions of MCPs worldwide.

No, MTA certifications do not expire.

After you pass your MTA certification exam, highlight the certification on your college and internship applications to set you apart from your peers. Also, consider becoming a Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS). You have already validated your fundamental technology knowledge—now it’s time to show the world that you are an expert

MTA certification exams typically contain 30 to 50 questions.

You have 50 minutes to complete your MTA certification exam. If an exam is not available in your native language and you must take it in English, you can request an additional 50 minutes to complete it. You must make this arrangement with your proctor before the exam appointment.

No, MTA certification exams are only available at Microsoft testing centres.

You can find out your score and exam results immediately after taking the exam.

You can download or purchase a paper copy of your certificate by going to the Microsoft Certified Professional website. You will need your Windows Live ID that has been associated with your Microsoft Certified ID in order to access this site. Download your certificate at http://www.mcp.microsoft.com/

Within a week after passing your first Microsoft Certification exam, you will receive an email message with your Microsoft Certified ID and detailed instructions on how to associate this with your Windows Live ID. You will need to make this association before accessing the Microsoft Certified Professional website.