How to Get Insurance for Microsoft Certification Exams

The Microsoft certification exams, a series of tests designed to confer 27 professional designations on network and software experts, are expensive and difficult. Many developers find although they are excellent in their daily work, they have trouble passing the exams. Microsoft certification exam insurance is one of the ways developers can save money if they need to retake the exam.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Check out the current Microsoft certification program. At times, Microsoft offers a "second shot" program or some type of insurance that they sell. By purchasing the insurance, the test-taker has the opportunity to retake the exam at a reduced cost, or even for free, if she fails on the first try. Microsoft does not run an insurance program all the time, but it is simplest if they have a current plan.
2. Look into outside vendors. Some companies offer the program to people if they sign up for courses. These companies sell courses on Microsoft certification for large amounts of money, but they often include the cost of taking an exam for the second time in your package. Should you plan to take a course anyway, these insurance programs can be an added bonus.
3. Compare plans. Some companies simply offer a reduced rate. You may pay a small amount, such as 10 percent of the total cost of the exam, to save a larger percentage on the second exam. Other plans offer a free second exam or a percentage off the next exam in a series if you pass on the first try.
4. Read the fine print. Many of these insurance policies require you to retake the exam within a certain amount of time. They also have restrictions placed on you as far as the study route you must take before they will guarantee the exam. Checking into these issues before you purchase the insurance can keep you from buying insurance you won't be able to use.
5. Make the purchase before you register. In most cases, the second chance insurance for Microsoft certification exams is available only if you sign up through their company or purchase the insurance before you even register for the exam.