What is the MS-900 Exam?
The MS-900: Microsoft 365 Fundamentals exam is Microsoft’s entry-level certification test for cloud services and Microsoft 365. It validates your knowledge of Microsoft 365 core concepts, benefits of adopting cloud services, security and compliance features, and subscription/licensing models.
Think of it as the gateway certification to Microsoft’s cloud ecosystem. It doesn’t require deep technical expertise; instead, it ensures you understand the “what,” “why,” and “how” behind Microsoft 365’s cloud-based offerings.
Who should take the MS-900 Exam?
The MS-900: Microsoft 365 Fundamentals exam is designed for:
- Business decision-makers exploring Microsoft 365 for their organizations.
- IT professionals starting their cloud journey and wanting a foundation in Microsoft 365.
- Students and entry-level professionals building career pathways into IT, cloud computing, or modern workplace roles.
- Sales and service professionals working in Microsoft 365 environments, including licensing advisors, account managers, and consultants.
Typical job roles include:
- IT Support Specialist
- Cloud Administrator Trainee
- Microsoft 365 Sales Specialist
- Technical Support Engineer (entry-level)
- Junior Security or Compliance Analyst
Experience level: This is best suited for beginners or those with up to 1 year of exposure to IT/cloud environments.
Prerequisites and recommendations
Official prerequisites: Microsoft lists no mandatory prerequisites for MS-900.
Practical recommendations:
- Familiarity with basic IT concepts (networking, cloud, security).
- Some hands-on experience with Microsoft 365 products (Word, Excel, Teams, SharePoint).
- If you already hold CompTIA ITF+ or AZ-900 (Azure Fundamentals), you’ll have a strong head start.
- 1 year of IT or business technology exposure recommended for smooth preparation.
Exam objectives and domains
The MS-900 exam covers the following high-level objectives:
- Describe Cloud Concepts
- Describe Core Microsoft 365 Services and Concepts
- Explain Security, Compliance, Privacy, and Trust in Microsoft 365
- Describe Microsoft 365 Pricing and Support
Objective details by domain
1. Describe Cloud Concepts
- Different types of cloud services: IaaS, PaaS, SaaS.
- Benefits of cloud adoption: scalability, cost efficiency, productivity.
- Differences between on-premises vs. cloud environments.
- Understanding cloud deployment models (public, private, hybrid).
2. Describe Core Microsoft 365 Services and Concepts
- Key Microsoft 365 applications: Teams, Exchange, SharePoint, OneDrive, Yammer.
- Collaboration tools and communication solutions.
- Productivity solutions: Microsoft Office apps (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Endpoint management and Windows 365 integration.
3. Explain Security, Compliance, Privacy, and Trust in Microsoft 365
- Identity and access management (Azure AD basics, MFA).
- Security features: Defender, Security Center, compliance manager.
- Privacy, transparency, and trust concepts.
- Regulatory compliance and certifications (GDPR, ISO).
4. Describe Microsoft 365 Pricing and Support
- Available support options and Service Level Agreements (SLAs).
- Licensing options and subscription models.
- Comparing business vs. enterprise plans.
- Cost management and billing structures.
What changed in this version
The current MS-900 exam has been updated to align with Microsoft’s modern cloud tools:
- Adjusted domain weightage to reflect growing demand for security/compliance awareness.
- More emphasis on Teams, Viva, and modern collaboration tools.
- Increased focus on security and compliance, including Zero Trust principles.
- Simplified content on legacy apps and removed heavy focus on Skype for Business.
Registration and scheduling
- Register via the Microsoft Learn website or Pearson VUE.
- Available as an online proctored exam or at authorized test centers.
- Scheduling flexibility: You can book 24/7 for online testing.
Pricing and vouchers
Standard price: $99 USD.
Regional pricing: May vary depending on your country (e.g., discounted in emerging markets).
Discounts available for:
- Students (via student email verification).
- Military and veterans.
- Microsoft Enterprise training programs.
Voucher programs: Microsoft offers bulk vouchers for organizations and training providers.
Policies you should know
- You must present valid government-issued ID.
- Cancellation/rescheduling allowed up to 24 hours before exam.
- Retake policy: 24-hour wait for the 1st retake; longer waits for subsequent attempts.
- Exam expiration: MS-900 does not expire immediately but requires renewal.
Scoring and results
- Scoring scale: 100–1000.
- Passing score: 700.
- Partial credit: Yes, some multi-response questions award partial points.
- Results: Delivered immediately on screen and by email.
- Score report: Includes section-level strengths and weaknesses.
Exam day and test experience
- Options: Take at a Pearson VUE center or via online proctoring.
- Check-in process (online): ID verification, room scan with webcam, no unauthorized items.
- Allowed items: None; even notes and phones are restricted.
- Breaks: No scheduled breaks (time continues running).
- Interface tips: Flag questions to revisit, monitor timer at top-right.
- Time management: 45–60 questions in 85 minutes; aim for 1–1.5 minutes per question.
Study plan and resources
For Beginners (4–6 weeks)
- Week 1–2: Learn cloud concepts (Microsoft Learn modules + YouTube basics).
- Week 3: Explore Microsoft 365 apps, Teams, and SharePoint hands-on.
- Week 4: Dive into security, compliance, and pricing.
- Week 5: Take practice tests, identify weak areas.
- Week 6: Revise and sit for the exam.
For Experienced Candidates (2–3 weeks)
- Week 1: Review cloud basics + Microsoft 365 apps.
- Week 2: Focus on security/compliance + pricing models.
- Week 3: Take multiple practice exams and close knowledge gaps.
Certification validity and renewal
Validity: 1 year from the date of passing.
Renewal options:
- Or upgrade to higher certifications (e.g., Microsoft 365 Certified: Fundamentals → Administrator Associate).
- Free renewal assessment on Microsoft Learn before expiration.
Career outcomes
Earning MS-900 opens doors to entry-level IT and business technology roles, including:
- IT Support Specialist – $55,000/year (Glassdoor average).
- Microsoft 365 Administrator (junior level) – $65,000/year.
- Technical Account Manager – $70,000/year.
- Cloud Solutions Specialist – $75,000/year.
It’s often a stepping stone certification before moving into advanced cloud or security roles with six-figure salaries.
| Job Role | Average Salary (USD/year) |
|---|---|
| IT Support Specialist | $50,000 – $60,000 |
| Microsoft 365 Administrator (Junior) | $60,000 – $70,000 |
| Cloud Support Associate | $55,000 – $65,000 |
| Technical Account Manager | $65,000 – $75,000 |
| Collaboration/Teams Specialist | $60,000 – $72,000 |
| Security & Compliance Assistant | $58,000 – $68,000 |
| Cloud Solutions Specialist (Entry-level) | $70,000 – $80,000 |
Related or next-step certifications
- AZ-900 (Azure Fundamentals): For cloud infrastructure focus.
- SC-900 (Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals): For security enthusiasts.
- MS-700 (Managing Microsoft Teams): For those aiming at collaboration admin roles.
- Microsoft 365 Administrator Associate certifications (higher-level career progression).
How this exam compares to similar certifications
- MS-900 vs. AZ-900: MS-900 focuses on Microsoft 365 (productivity + collaboration), while AZ-900 focuses on Azure cloud infrastructure.
- MS-900 vs. CompTIA Cloud Essentials+: Both cover cloud basics, but MS-900 is Microsoft-specific and more practical for organizations using Microsoft 365.
Final Thoughts: Start Your MS-900 Journey
The MS-900 exam is the perfect starting point for anyone stepping into cloud computing and Microsoft 365. It’s affordable, beginner-friendly, and opens doors to multiple career paths. Whether you’re aiming for IT support, administration, or even cloud consulting, this certification gives you the foundation you need.
Ready to prepare? Get your hands on trusted study material here:
Take the first step today, your cloud career begins here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many questions are on the MS-900 exam?
Expect 40–60 questions, covering multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and case studies.
Is MS-900 difficult for beginners?
No. It’s considered one of the easiest Microsoft certifications, ideal as a starting point for cloud and IT careers.
Can I take MS-900 without IT experience?
Yes. While IT knowledge helps, it’s not required. Even non-technical professionals (sales, consultants) pass it easily with preparation.
How do I renew my MS-900 certification?
Simply complete the free online renewal assessment on Microsoft Learn before the certification expires.
