Forum Discussion
SQL Server Certifications
I have verified with Microsoft Learning on the Alternate exam path. There has been a policy change (as of September 2016). The certification requirement for MCSA: SQL 2012/2014 is only 461, 462 and 463. The alternate exam options for the 463 exam is no longer available. There was a period of time after they implemented this change where the credential management system still showed the alternate path as an option for candidates. As a result, some candidates prepared for and took the alternate exams. For candidates who took these alternate exams before the end of July, will be awarded credit toward the MCSA SQL 2012/2014. Candidates can contact MCPops@microsoft.com if they need more info or find themselves in this situation.
Really helpful John - thank you.
Quick question on the learning paths though. Have MS retired the 70-463 alternative options or are they still valid? One of my old students just passed 70-462 today having done 70-761 and the c# alternative last year and is now panicking he won't be awarded the MCSA as they're not referenced on the MS website anymore.
While the option is no longer listed on the website. I have not heard that the alternative options for the 70-463 exam as been discontinued. (Alternative options being able to replace 70-463 with either 70-480, 70-411, or 70-412.) So, I believe you co-worker should have earned the MCSA and it should reflect on his Transcript.
However, I do have a ticket into Microsoft Learning to see if this has changed since it no longer shows on the website. I believe the alternative options were accidently removed in error while the Learning website was being redesigned over the summer.
That's great John.
Thanks very much for the reply
I have verified with Microsoft Learning on the Alternate exam path. There has been a policy change (as of September 2016). The certification requirement for MCSA: SQL 2012/2014 is only 461, 462 and 463. The alternate exam options for the 463 exam is no longer available. There was a period of time after they implemented this change where the credential management system still showed the alternate path as an option for candidates. As a result, some candidates prepared for and took the alternate exams. For candidates who took these alternate exams before the end of July, will be awarded credit toward the MCSA SQL 2012/2014. Candidates can contact MCPops@microsoft.com if they need more info or find themselves in this situation.