Microsoft offers training for a number of courses based on many of its software. Once you pass any of the exam based on these courses, you are given a certificate from Microsoft.

Microsoft certifications remain valid as long as organisations use the technologies covered under the certification. With time, certifications retire as a newer version of the technology may get introduced. Individuals certified in the previous version must recertify in the next version with one upgrade exam.

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) is usually the starting point for Microsoft certifications. MTA certifications act as a foundation for MCSA and MCSD, though it is not mandatory to be certified in MTA for both the certifications. For technology professionals, MCSA and MCSD are the perfect certifications to begin with as they act as prerequisites for further certifications.

A Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) exam can be attempted for up to five times a year, though there are some certain criteria that needs to be followed. If the passing score is not achieved at the first attempt, a candidate needs to wait for at least 24 hours for a second attempt; If the passing score is again not achieved at the second attempt, a gap of 14 days is mandatory for a third attempt; A gap of 14 days is also levied for the fourth and fifth attempts.

The first level, i.e. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) certification is designed for students and individuals who prefer to work in an IT industry. Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) certifications are basically designed for job-seekers or IT professionals who already have a certification in MTA, though not mandatory. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) certifications and Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) certifications require at least one to two years of rich experience in IT industry.

Possessing a certificate proves that you have mastered the skills related to or required for that certificate. Microsoft certificates are industry standard and recognised globally. Earning a Microsoft certification can help you access a number of benefits found on the Microsoft certified Professional (MCP), Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT) and Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) member websites.

A Microsoft certification increases your chances of getting hired by up to 5 times, as per Microsoft. Microsoft also says that 86% of employers seek candidates with an IT certificate and 64% of hiring managers prefer a Microsoft certificate over others. Also, a Microsoft certified employee can earn as much as 15% or more than an uncertified co-worker. In fact, an entry level employee can earn as much as $16,000 or more annually in high-growth industries.

The salary ranges of a Microsoft Certified Professional starts from $65,821 per year for a Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) and goes up to $117,043 per year for a Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT), as per a survey.

Microsoft certified Professional (MCP) exams cost approximately US $165 but are usually priced as per the currency values in specific countries and region. Also, additional taxes may apply.

The average salary of a Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) is $76,000 per year, as per a report generated by PayScale.

An individual can become a Microsoft Certified Professional in four easy steps: 1. Decide the certification best suitable to you - Understand what you need. MCP validates your skills across a range of Microsoft technologies. MCP qualifying exams include all the exams pertaining to Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) and Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD). 2. Check the benefits - Students can avail discounts for exams and some other special offers too. 3. Get the required training - Take either in-person or online training and download free e-books from Microsoft Press to study for the exam. You can also skip the training if you are already prepared to sit for the exam. 4. Schedule or book your exam - Schedule the exam once the required study is completed. The exam lasts for approximately 90 minutes which can either be taken online at home or at an authorized exam center.