Why get certified in Microsoft Office at NYIM?
NYIM offers several MOS certification programs and has high passing rates because of the various resources we provide you.
- Flexible Scheduling: Choose dates that work with your schedule for the group classes and exam. For most classes, we offer weekday, weeknight, and weekend training options.
- Free Retakes: You can retake any group class once within one year, and the actual exam, so you can feel confident you'll get additional support if you need.
- Top Instructors & Curriculum: Our instructors are adept at walking you through our custom curriculum, which is hands-on and project-based.
- Video Suite: For Excel & PowerPoint classes, you'll receive access to our premium video suite at no additional charge, the perfect way to review the materials on your own.
- Affordable Pricing: Our certification programs include classes and the exam with proctoring at one low, affordable price. No hidden fees or additional proctoring charges.
Learn more about Microsoft Certifications
What are the different Microsoft Office certifications?
Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification is available in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Access. Associate exams cover Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, and show employers that you have a strong command of that program.
Expert exams are available in Word and Excel (plus Access, on Office 2019). Passing one shows employers that you have a high level of mastery in that program.
Exams also stack into broader credentials. Pass three Associate exams in different programs to earn the MOS Associate certification, then add two Expert exams to earn the MOS Expert certification, the highest level available.
How do I get certified in Microsoft Office?
Certification is achieved by passing an online exam. The exams are administered by Certiport and available at authorized training centers. Each exam takes about 50 minutes, and you complete hands-on tasks inside the program itself. Score 700 out of 1,000 or higher and you are certified. Certifications are valid for five years.
Here are the steps to getting certified in MS Office:
- Choose a program to get certified in, as well as the level (Associate or Expert)
- Read Microsoft's guidelines on what is covered on the exam and what will be tested
- Learn the program through hands-on classes, online training, or self-training
- Find an authorized Certiport center to take the exam
If you choose to obtain your certification with NYIM, we can walk you through the different exams and types of certification. We also provide bundled packages that include everything you need: group classes, supplemental online training materials, the Certiport exam, and proctoring for the exam. Our group classes and certification exam come with a free retake.
What are the current Microsoft Office Specialist exams?
- Word Associate (Microsoft 365 Apps), Exam MO-110
- Word Expert (Microsoft 365 Apps), Exam MO-111
- Excel Associate (Microsoft 365 Apps), Exam MO-210
- Excel Expert (Microsoft 365 Apps), Exam MO-211
- PowerPoint Associate (Microsoft 365 Apps), Exam MO-310
- Outlook Associate (Office 2019), Exam MO-400
- Access Expert (Office 2019), Exam MO-500
The Office 2016 exams retired on June 30, 2026.
How much does a Microsoft Office Specialist exam cost?
Exam prices vary by testing center and region, and you'll need an authorized Certiport testing center to take the exam. Proctoring fees also vary by location.
In all our Microsoft Certification programs, the exam (with a free retake) is included, as well as proctoring for the exam.
Why should I consider a Microsoft certification?
A certification is basically an award created by Microsoft and bestowed upon those that prove they have a particular level of knowledge or skill. To be certified is to differentiate yourself from others when applying for a new job, or striving for a promotion. On a personal level, it is a way to test yourself and work towards achieving a goal that has the potential to open a lot of doors.
How can I prepare for a certification?
It is actually difficult to find study materials online. You can find a lot of True/False or Multiple Choice questions, but these only test theoretical knowledge, and not applicable skills.
However, NYIM’s courses are custom designed to help you in this process. While we do not “teach to the test”, we do create and constantly update a curriculum that is second to none within the industry. We offer bootcamp and certification packages that help guide you through the various levels of learning, with some programs culminating with a private session with a certified trainer. We also offer opportunities for those taking the test to come in and practice taking the exam on a subscription-based service that very closely replicates the exam experience.