MOS Frequently Asked Questions
Following are answers to frequently asked questions about the Microsoft Office Specialist program. In addition to general information, specific answers are directed toward both test candidates and potential testing centers/courseware vendors.
Microsoft Office Specialist program: (800) 933-4493
- What sets a MOS candidate apart from peers?
- What types of MOS certifications are available?
- Who benefits from the MOS program?
- What is the examination format?
- How long does a typical examination take?
- What kind of preparation is necessary?
- Where can I take a MOS examination?
- In which languages and countries are MOS examinations offered?
- Where can I find my examination results?
- Can I take an examination more than once?
- If I don't pass an examination, can I get a refund?
- Can I use the MOS logo on my resume or business cards?
- Who can I contact if I have additional questions?
Q1. What sets a MOS candidate apart from peers?
Q2. What types of MOS certifications are available?MOS certification gives both the job applicant and the employee proof of their productivity, and therefore, a head-start in a competitive market for jobs and promotions.
Return to top of pageMOS certification in Office 2000
Two types of MOS certification are available for Office 2000 applications: core and expert. A comprehensive master certification is also available for those wishing to demonstrate the breadth of their ability by obtaining a combination of core and expert certifications in Office 2000 applications.
Q3. Who benefits from the MOS program?MOS certification in Office 97
Two types of MOS certification are available of Office 97 applications: proficient and expert. A comprehensive master certification is also available for those wishing to demonstrate the breadth of their ability by obtaining several expert certifications using Office 97.
MOS certification in Microsoft Project 2000
Two types of MOS certification are available of Microsoft Project 2000: core and expert.
Q4. What is the examination format?MOS certification distinguishes end-users of Microsoft Office products as truly knowledgeable-a designation which attracts attention in a comprehensive job market. MOS certification also demonstrates employee competence, helping managers with job placement and advancement. Hiring or promoting candidates with MOS certification will also reduce the amount of training needed to enable new employees to contribute to the overall level of organizational effectiveness.
MOS certification examinations are not multiple-choice examinations (except for Microsoft Outlook 2000 and Microsoft Project 2000 Expert which have a few multiple choice questions), nor do they require a user to rely on strict memorization. Instead, each examination is conducted within a "live" Microsoft Office application. Using an actual document, examination candidates are asked to perform a series of tasks to clearly demonstrate their skills. For example, an examination on Microsoft Word might ask a user to balance newspaper column lengths or keep text together in columns.
Q5. How long does a typical examination take?
Q6. What kind of preparation is necessary?A typical MOS examination takes one hour or less. Examinees are measured on both knowledge and efficiency.
Q7. Where can I take a MOS examination?Although examination candidates may prepare on their own, outside training and training materials ("courseware") can provide the support, resources and practice needed to become MOS certified. When selecting training materials, ensure that the courseware carries the "Approved Courseware" logo and/or that the instructor has passed the appropriate examination.
Q8. In which languages and countries are MOS examinations offered?All examinations are administered by an iQcenterTM. Questions about examination schedules should be directed to the nearest testing center. Most iQcenters require pre-registration. To register, contact a local center directly. Some also accept walk-in examination candidates, allowing on-the-spot registration and examination.
For general information about the testing centers, please contact MOS Customer Service by e-mail info@mous.net or by phone (888) 893-0104.
Q9. Where can I find my examination results?MOS examinations are currently available in Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian, Portuguese, Spanish, and Swedish.
Q10. Can I take an examination more than once?Examination results are displayed as soon as the examination is completed. An official certificate will be mailed to successful candidates 2-3 weeks.
To maintain a high level of security, all examination data is encrypted, and the examination process is closely monitored. The entire testing procedure is conducted within a framework of complete confidentiality. Examination results are provided only to the candidate and to Microsoft.
Q11. If I don't pass an examination, can I get a refund?There is no limit on the number of times a given MOS examination can be taken. However, the same fee applies to each examination.
C.L.A.S.S. at (281) 333-9610. Q12. Can I use the MOS logo on my resume or business cards?Refunds are not available for failing examination scores or missed examination appointments. Users must pay for tests in advance by calling
Q13. Who can I contact if I have additional questions?No. Individuals who pass testing under the Microsoft Office Specialist program are not eligible for a logo. The MOS logo is copyrighted by Microsoft Corporation. Unauthorized duplication or use of any likeness is prohibited, unless written authorization has been granted to those participating as an iQcenterTM (authorized testing center for the program), a MOS Authorized Instructor, or an Independent Courseware Vendor.
If you have additional questions or can't locate what you're looking for on this Web site, please contact MOS Customer Service by e-mail info@mous.net or by phone (888) 893-0104 or call C.L.A.S.S. at (281) 333-9610.
Return
Home
What's New? | Services
& Pricing | Our Classes |
Class
Schedules | Register for Classes
Microsoft Office Specialist Certification | IC3
Certification | On-Line
Training | Software Tips
| Hot
Links | Contact Us | Site
Map