Security procedures for Microsoft Office Specialist exams

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q: What security procedures are in place for Microsoft Office Specialist exams?
A: As part of our ongoing effort to enhance the value of the Microsoft Office Specialist program, certain security measures are in place to protect the integrity of certification exams. For example, all certification candidates are required to present personal identification at the testing center and sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) before taking an exam. A policy has also been implemented to restrict the number of times a candidate can retake an exam in a week (see question #3). Finally, additional rules and procedures are in place for Microsoft Office Specialist Authorized Testing Centers (testing centers see #2) and certification candidates to combat cheating and misuse of exams.
Q: Where can a testing center find additional information about the security policy?
A: The Security Policy for Microsoft Office Specialist Authorized Testing Centers can be found within the Bahabeach Center Dashboard.
Q: What is the retake policy for Microsoft Office Specialist exams?
A: Certification candidates may retake the same failed exam again after 24 hours*. Candidates who wish to retake the exam a third or subsequent time must wait a minimum of 48 hours before retaking the exam. For candidates who pass an exam, there is no wait time needed to retake the exam. Beta exams may be taken only once.

*A day equals 24 hours after an exam was first started.
Q: Why is a retake policy necessary?
A: A waiting period between exam retakes discourages memorization of exam content.
Q: Why am I required to accept the Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) before I can take an exam?
A: Acceptance of the NDA by certification candidates protects exam content by creating a legally enforceable obligation to safeguard the exam content by keeping exam-related information confidential.
Q: What happens if someone is caught cheating?
A: If a certification candidate is found to have violated testing rules, they may lose any existing Microsoft certifications and may be made permanently ineligible for additional Microsoft certifications. Microsoft Office Specialist Authorized Testing Centers are authorized to take appropriate measures to prevent cheating.