Microsoft I'm very happy to see that the certification paths are evolving and now include AI in their tracks. As a teacher, I would like to emphasize that entry-level certifications are crucial to spark interest among young people. These foundational certifications seem to have been skipped or raised in level over the past few years, making the learning curve quite steep.
Are there any updates regarding the announced AI-focused certifications? I can’t seem to find any information on them.
AB-730 https://learn.microsoft.com/credentials/certifications/ai-business-professional/
AB-731 https://learn.microsoft.com/credentials/certifications/ai-transformation-leader/
AB-900 https://learn.microsoft.com/credentials/certifications/copilot-and-agent-administration-fundamentals/
AB-100 https://learn.microsoft.com/credentials/certifications/agentic-ai-business-solutions-architect/
Thank you very much, Julian_Sharp , for sharing these courses.
They are indeed valuable, and I fully agree that the certifications you highlighted address important competencies. Many of these aspects are already integrated into our curricula.
However, from an educational and employment-readiness perspective, there remains a noticeable gap for certain learner profiles—particularly young technicians who need a solid grounding in system configuration and administrative fundamentals.
Courses like MS-900: Microsoft 365 Fundamentals used to provide exactly that entry-level technical foundation. In contrast, certifications such as MD-102 assume a significantly higher baseline of knowledge, which can be overwhelming for students who are just beginning to explore these domains. Without accessible starting points, we risk losing motivated talent simply because the learning curve has become too steep at the outset.
This is why I originally wrote that entry-level certifications are essential to spark interest and build confidence among new learners. While I am pleased to see AI pathways emerging in the certification roadmap, I am still unable to identify comparable fundamental-level technical certifications that can serve as stepping stones toward the more advanced tracks.
Do you know if Microsoft plans to reintroduce or expand accessible, foundational certifications—particularly those covering the basics of system administration?
I would tend to agree here. I understand the importance of AI, but at the same time it looks like we’re devaluing the importance of learning the fundamentals of Office 365.
Would it not have been better to bolt-on the AI?
Maybe I’m misunderstanding the plan but it seems AI focused.
MicrosoftThank you for continuing to reinforce the feedback on the MS-900 retirement. I have captured this for our team. Looking forward to getting additional input on the new AB-900 exam that is in beta now.
AB-900 replaced MS-900
AB-730 and AB-731 are for business professionals and would also be useful for IT Pros in early stage career
All associate level certifications such as MD-102, IMO, are for practitioners who have at least a year in the role. I agree there is a significant difference between fundamentals and associate level certifications. Associate level certs are not suitable for students who do not have real working experience with the products covered by the exam.
I do not work for Microsoft so I have no knowledge of Microsoft's plans.
