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Live Date for 70-293/70-294 Sim Exams Delayed to 2006

Microsoft cites priority developing SQL Server 2005, Visual Studio 2005 exams, as well as sim refinements based on testers' feedback.

Even as the beta process for exams 70-293 and 70-294 continues (see "Sim Versions of 70-293, 70-294 Exams Make Beta,), the certification group at Microsoft Corp. continues to receive some input on the live versions of exam 70-290 and 70-291. What the nature of that input might be, Keith Loeber, senior product manager Microsoft certifications, wouldn't specify, but he says that based in that, extensive testing to refine the simulations is continuing. As a result, Loeber says the company is delaying their general release of the 70-293/294 sims to late January 2006.

Loeber also adds that giving priority to developing the SQL Server 2005 and Visual Studio 2005 exams is also pushing the simulations launch to next year. SQL Server 2005 and Visual Studio 2005 are planned for release in November during a launch event, with release to manufacturing expected some time this month. Microsoft typically releases some form of an exam (beta or live version) after a product ships by about 45 days.

Testers who plan on taking exam 70-293 and 70-294 should expect to face the typical mix of multiple-choice, create a tree and other question types in those exams. Simulations may also be encountered in the current live exams, but those are often unscored items. For guidance, see the following exam reviews:

About the Author

Michael Domingo has held several positions at 1105 Media, and is currently the editor in chief of Visual Studio Magazine.

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