Microsoft Office Specialist Certification

What is Microsoft Certified Application Specialists (previously called- Office Specialist) Certification and why is it important?
The Microsoft® Certified Application Specialist program is globally recognized as the standard for demonstrating desktop skills with the Microsoft Office suite of business productivity applications. Microsoft Certified Application Specialist certification provides Microsoft Office and Microsoft Project 2007 users with the ability to put their training and skills to the test. By encouraging individuals to develop advanced skills with Microsoft's leading business desktop software, the Microsoft Certified Application program helps fill the demand for qualified knowledge students and workers in the modern classroom and workplace.

This test is given separately for each component of Microsoft Office. These skills are pertinent to your success in and out of the classroom and a certification from Microsoft would look good on your resume.

When can I take the tests?
The tests can be taken anytime as long as the testing room is available. Check with Mr. Darius Carlton (334-229-8314) or Ms. Una Parker (334-229-4126) for testing schedules.

What level of certification do I need to pass?
The College of Business Administration strongly encourages students to pass the core level on Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Access.

What can I do to prepare for the tests?
After you have paid for one test, Una will give you a Microsoft Office Specialist Practice disk. Please note this is not a replica of the exam; it is merely an indication of the areas in which you should study.

Review the Microsoft Office applications, make use of the help function to clear up any questions and answer your queries.

The Microsoft site has many links to information regarding the Microsoft Office Specialist.

How much does each test cost?
Each test (Microsoft Word, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Access) will cost $70. You have to pay this amount to the University's Cashier.   Please tell the cashier that the payment is for the Microsoft Certification test (the sub code is 90041).  The description that will appear on the receipt will be  "CIS MICROSOFT TESTING".  

Can I do all the tests at one time?
No, you must sign up separately for each test. Each test costs $55.

How long will each test take?
Each test will take 45-60 minutes, although you may not take this long.

How do I register for each test?
Stop by Darius or Una, to find out how to register for each individual test. You will need the Cashier's receipt for registering for the tests.

What if I need special accommodations?
Documentation must be provided detailing the extent of your disability and requirements for accommodation.

What if I don't pass one or all components?
For all Microsoft® Office Specialist exams, two attempts are allowed for each $55 paid. If the first attempt is failed, a retake voucher will be emailed to the address that was used to register.

When will I find out my results of the tests?
Students will get immediate results on their screen upon completion of the exams or when the time runs out, whichever occurs first. Students will receive a certificate approximately two weeks after successfully passing the tests.

What if I still have more questions pertaining to Microsoft Office Specialist Certification?
Stop by Dr. Hingorani's office. He will be glad to answer your questions.