How to Prepare for DP-900 Exam for First Time Success in 2025

What is DP-900 Exam?

The DP-900: Microsoft Azure Data Fundamentals exam is an entry-level certification designed for individuals looking to establish a foundation in data concepts, databases, and cloud-based data services within Microsoft Azure. It’s one of the fundamental certifications under the Microsoft Azure certification path, catering specifically to beginners, students, IT professionals transitioning to data roles, and business analysts who need a basic understanding of Azure’s data solutions.

At its core, the DP-900 certification validates knowledge in four major areas:

1. Core Data Concepts – Understanding structured, semi-structured, and unstructured data.
2. Relational Data in Azure – Learning about Azure SQL Database, PostgreSQL, MySQL, and their use cases.
3. Non-Relational Data in Azure – Exploring NoSQL solutions like Cosmos DB, Blob Storage, and their practical applications.
4. Analytics and Big Data Fundamentals – Concepts like data warehouses, data lakes, batch vs. stream processing, and tools like Azure Synapse Analytics and Azure Data Factory.

Unlike hands-on technical exams like DP-203 (Azure Data Engineer Associate), DP-900 is mostly theoretical, making it ideal for those just stepping into cloud computing and data-related roles. However, it’s not just about memorizing concepts, you need to understand real-world applications of Azure’s data solutions to pass the exam.

DP-900 Exam Format & Details

• Number of Questions: 40-60
• Exam Duration: 60 minutes
• Question Types: Multiple-choice, case studies, drag-and-drop
• Passing Score: 700/1000
• Cost: $99 (but often available for free through Microsoft’s training days)

If you’re already working in IT but new to data management in the cloud, DP-900 is a great way to bridge the gap between traditional on-premises databases and cloud-based data solutions. It also sets the stage for more advanced certifications like DP-203 (Data Engineering) and AI-900 (Azure AI Fundamentals) if you want to specialize further.

Is DP-900 Certification Still Worth it in 2025?

The short answer: Yes, but with a caveat. If you’re new to cloud computing and data, the DP-900 certification is an excellent starting point. But if you already have experience in data engineering, databases, or analytics, this might be too basic for you.

DP-900 is Still Relevant in 2025, Here is Why:

1. Cloud Adoption is at an All-Time High – Azure is the second-largest cloud provider after AWS, and businesses are rapidly moving their data to the cloud. Companies need professionals who understand how to handle, store, and analyze data in cloud environments. DP-900 proves you have that fundamental knowledge.
2. Azure Data Services Are Becoming the Industry Standard – Many organizations prefer Azure SQL Database, Azure Cosmos DB, and Azure Synapse Analytics over traditional databases due to scalability, security, and AI-powered analytics. Even if you’re not planning to become a full-time data engineer, understanding these tools is valuable.
3. Employers Value Microsoft Certifications – Unlike generic data courses, a Microsoft-issued certification holds more weight in job applications, especially for roles involving cloud data, analytics, or business intelligence (BI). DP-900 makes your resume stand out when applying for entry-level roles like Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst, Cloud Support Engineer, or even Software Developer with a focus on data.
4. It’s a Low-Cost, Low-Risk Certification – Unlike advanced Microsoft exams that require hands-on experience, DP-900 can be passed with structured study (2-4 weeks of preparation is enough for most people). Plus, Microsoft frequently offers free DP-900 exam vouchers through training programs, making it a no-brainer for those looking to build credentials in cloud data.

What to Study? DP-900 Topics That Matter the Most

One of the biggest mistakes candidates make is studying everything without focusing on what actually matters in the exam. The DP-900 exam isn’t about memorization, it’s about understanding cloud data concepts and Microsoft Azure’s data services. While the official syllabus looks broad, some topics are more heavily tested than others.

So, what should you prioritize? Let’s break it down.

Microsoft’s Official Exam Skills Outline: What’s Included & What’s Not

Microsoft provides a DP-900 exam skills outline, which is the best starting point. However, not everything listed in the syllabus gets equal weight in the exam. Some topics appear frequently in questions, while others are barely touched.

Here’s what you need to focus on:

1. Core Data Concepts (25-30%)

• Understanding structured, semi-structured, and unstructured data
• Database types: relational vs. non-relational (NoSQL)
• Transactions, ACID properties, and batch vs. stream processing

💡 Most Tested Area: Knowing when to use relational vs. non-relational databases is a game-changer. Expect case-study questions where you’ll need to choose between Azure SQL Database vs. Cosmos DB.

2. Relational Data in Azure (20-25%)

• Azure SQL Database, PostgreSQL, MySQL
• Tables, indexes, primary keys, foreign keys
• SQL vs. NoSQL queries

💡 Expect Questions on: The difference between Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) databases like Azure SQL and traditional databases. Microsoft loves testing Azure’s managed database features (scalability, high availability, backups).

3. Non-Relational Data in Azure (15-20%)

• Azure Cosmos DB, Blob Storage, Table Storage
• When to use document-based, column-family, key-value, or graph databases

💡 Tricky Part: Cosmos DB is always on the test. You need to know how it handles global distribution, consistency models, and scaling.

4. Analytics and Big Data (20-25%)

• Azure Synapse Analytics, Data Lakes, Data Warehouses
• Azure Databricks, Machine Learning & AI
• Stream vs. batch data processing

💡 Reality Check: You don’t need in-depth knowledge of Spark, Databricks, or AI/ML. Most questions only require basic understanding of when to use these services.

5. Security, Privacy, and Compliance (10-15%)

• Encryption, data masking, role-based access control (RBAC)
• Compliance frameworks: GDPR, HIPAA, ISO
• Firewalls, virtual networks, private endpoints

💡 This is one of the easiest sections if you understand the basics of Azure security and compliance standards. Questions often ask how to secure an Azure SQL database or how RBAC works in data services.

Best DP-900 Books & Study Resources for 2025

Best Books for DP-900 Exam Success

• Exam Ref DP-900 Microsoft Azure Data Fundamentals – Official Microsoft book
• Azure Data Fundamentals Exam Cram PDF – Great for last-minute revision
• DP-900 Cheat Sheet – Available on GitHub & tech blogs

💡 If you prefer books, combine them with hands-on labs for best results.

DP-900 Exam Dumps & Practice Tests

• DP-900 Dumps can help with understanding question formats but don’t rely on them alone.
• Practice tests (from MeasureUp, Whizlabs, or Udemy) are a much better option.
• Simulated tests help with time management & real exam conditions.

If you’re looking for reliable DP-900 exam dumps, Cert Empire provides high-quality and up-to-date dumps that can enhance your preparation.

💡 Best Strategy: Do at least 3 full-length practice tests before your exam.

YouTube & Online Courses: Which Ones Are Worth Your Time?

• John Savill’s DP-900 Crash Course (YouTube) – Free & highly rated
• Udemy DP-900 Courses – Best for structured learning with quizzes

💡 Avoid overly long courses, focus on ones with real-world explanations.

Free vs. Paid DP-900 Study Resources – Which One Works Best?

• Microsoft Learn & Free YouTube Tutorials → Best for self-learners
• Udemy & Whizlabs (Paid) → Best if you need structured training
• Practice Tests (MeasureUp, ExamTopics) → Must-have for exam readiness

💡 Use a mix of free & paid resources to maximize your preparation.

Common Mistakes That Make Students Fail DP-900 Exam

Many candidates assume that because DP-900 is a foundational-level exam, it’s easy. That’s a huge mistake. While it’s not as tough as DP-203 or DP-300, you can still fail if you don’t approach it the right way. Here are the most common pitfalls that trip up test-takers and how to avoid them.

Ignoring the Exam Format and Not Practicing Enough

One of the biggest mistakes is walking into the exam without knowing what to expect. DP-900 is not a simple multiple-choice test, it includes scenario-based questions, drag-and-drop exercises, and tricky case studies. If you haven’t practiced these question types beforehand, you’ll likely struggle.

What You Need to Do Instead:

• Take at least 3-5 full-length DP-900 practice tests before your exam.
• Familiarize yourself with Microsoft’s question styles (especially case studies).
• Don’t just study concepts, practice how to apply them in real-world scenarios.

💡 Tip: Use exam simulators like MeasureUp or Whizlabs to get a feel for the actual test environment.

Focusing Too Much on One Topic While Neglecting Others

Some candidates go all-in on topics they find interesting like Azure SQL Database or Big Data Analytics—and ignore other sections, assuming they aren’t as important.

The Reality?

• DP-900 is evenly weighted across multiple domains. You can’t just master one and expect to pass.
• Microsoft loves throwing in questions on non-relational databases (Cosmos DB, Blob Storage)—a section many candidates overlook.
• Security & compliance questions are often seen as “boring,” but they can be easy marks if you study them.

💡 Tip: Use Microsoft’s skills outline as a checklist to ensure you’ve covered all areas. Don’t let one weak section be the reason you fail.

Not Using a Time-Based Approach in Practice Tests

Time mismanagement is a silent killer in the DP-900 exam. You get 60 minutes for 40-60 questions, and while that sounds like plenty, it’s not if you’re not strategic.

Common Time Management Mistakes:

• Spending too long on one difficult question
• Not practicing time-based answering strategies
• Rushing through easy questions and making avoidable mistakes

Best Approach:

• Give yourself 1-2 minutes per question (on average).
• If stuck, flag the question and move on, don’t waste time.
• Use practice exams to train yourself to think quickly under pressure.

💡 Tip: Simulated practice tests should be done under real exam conditions (no notes, no pausing). Train your brain for the real thing.

Memorization Without Understanding – The Biggest Pitfall

A lot of people try to memorize DP-900 dumps or cram last-minute notes, hoping to pass. But DP-900 is not a memorization-based exam, it’s about conceptual understanding.

Why This Strategy Fails:

• The exam questions aren’t identical to practice test questions, Microsoft changes wording and context.
• Memorizing definitions won’t help with scenario-based questions.
• Understanding the “why” behind concepts is key (e.g., Why use Cosmos DB instead of Azure SQL? Why is stream processing needed for IoT data?).

💡 Tip: Instead of just memorizing, teach concepts to yourself out loud or to a friend. If you can’t explain it in simple terms, you don’t fully understand it.

DP-900 Exam Day Tips and Tricks

Time Management Tips – How to Avoid Running Out of Time

One of the biggest mistakes test-takers make is spending too much time on tough questions. Here’s how to stay on track:

• First Pass: Answer the easy questions first (takes less than 30 seconds).
• Second Pass: Spend more time on moderate questions that require reasoning.
• Final Pass: Use remaining time for difficult or flagged questions.

💡 Remember: There’s no penalty for wrong answers, so never leave a question blank!

Flagging vs. Answering Immediately – What’s the Right Strategy?

Microsoft allows you to flag questions for review, but should you use this feature?

✔ Yes, Flag if:

• The question is time-consuming (case studies, complex scenarios).
• You have no idea what the answer is (come back later).

✖ Don’t Flag if:

• You’re 99% sure of your answer (trust your gut).
• You’re simply overthinking (second-guessing leads to mistakes).

💡 Best Strategy: Only flag 5-7 questions max. Too many flags = wasted time reviewing.

FAQs from DP-900 Candidates

Q: How many questions are on the DP-900 exam?

A: The DP-900 exam typically includes 40-60 questions, covering multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and case-based scenarios. Expect a mix of conceptual and practical Azure data-related questions.

Q: Is DP-900 an open-book exam?

A: No, DP-900 is a closed-book exam. You cannot use notes, books, or online resources during the test. However, Microsoft provides an on-screen calculator and access to necessary references within the exam environment.

Q: Can I pass DP-900 without prior Azure experience?

A: Yes! DP-900 is designed for beginners, and prior experience with Azure is not required. However, hands-on practice using Azure’s free tier can significantly improve your understanding of cloud-based data solutions.

Q: What’s the passing score for DP-900?

A: To pass DP-900, you need at least 700 out of 1000 points. The exam does not follow a simple percentage grading system, as questions may have different weights based on difficulty.

Q: How long does it take to prepare for DP-900?

A: It depends on your background. Absolute beginners may need 3-4 weeks of dedicated study, while IT professionals with basic cloud knowledge can prepare in 1-2 weeks using structured resources like Microsoft Learn and practice tests.

Q: Are dumps reliable for DP-900?

A: Dumps should not be your primary study resource. While they may help with understanding question formats, relying solely on them is risky, as Microsoft frequently updates exam content. Instead, use practice tests, official documentation, and hands-on labs for effective preparation.

Last Updated on August 1, 2025 by Team CE