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Free Beta Offer for MCPmag.com Readers

Microsoft offers readers of MCPmag.com with promotional codes for select, upcoming beta exams.

Microsoft wants to give MCPmag.com readers who plan on getting certified under the new-generation MCP exams a free chance to take some of the exams while they go through their beta testing phases. The new MCP exam betas so far have proven to be popular, according to Keith Loeber, Group Product Manager of Microsoft's certification group. "We've had to turn some testers away," he said.

These exams are not for the faint-hearted; you really need to be well versed in SQL Server or the .NET Framework to have some chance of passing them. And there's a bonus for those who pass these exams: a free exam voucher for any MCP exam. The offer applies to the following beta-numbered tests:

  • 71-442 PRO: Designing and Optimizing Data Access by Using SQL Server 2005, in beta from Feb. 27-March 10. Promo Code: 442SQL
  • 71-547 PRO: Designing and Developing Web-based Applications by Using the .NET Framework, in beta from Feb. 28-March 10. Promo Code: PRO547
  • 71-548 PRO: Designing and Developing Windows-based Applications by Using the .NET Framework, in beta from Feb. 28-March 10. Promo Code: BTA548
  • 71-549 PRO: Designing and Developing Enterprise Applications by Using the .NET Framework, in beta from Feb. 28-March 10. Promo Code: 549BTA

Candidates can register for the exams at any Thomson Prometric or Pearson VUE testing center, and must use the promo codes shown above. Seating is limited and pre-registration is required.

Free vouchers for those who pass will be sent after the exams are released to the general public.

About the Author

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