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Microsoft 365 Fundamentals (MS-900)

A beginner-level certification introducing Microsoft 365 cloud services, productivity tools, and SaaS concepts.

Exam fee
$99
Typical salary
$65K–$85K
Our verdict

MS-900 is a solid entry point for anyone new to Microsoft 365 and looking to validate foundational knowledge. If you already have deeper cloud or admin experience, a more advanced certification may be a better use of time.

What MS-900 covers

Foundational certification covering Microsoft 365 cloud services, productivity tools, and SaaS concepts. Ideal first step for those entering the Microsoft ecosystem.

Key topics covered: Microsoft 365 services overview, Cloud concepts, Security & compliance basics, Microsoft 365 pricing & support.

Best suited for: IT professionals, business users, and students new to Microsoft 365 cloud services.

Common career paths: M365 Administrator, IT Helpdesk Specialist, Productivity Analyst.

Best forBeginners who want a formal acknowledgment of their basic Microsoft 365 knowledge.

MS-900 exam details

Exam domains

  1. Microsoft 365 services overview
  2. Cloud concepts
  3. Security & compliance basics
  4. Microsoft 365 pricing & support

At a glance

Exam fee
$99

How to prepare for MS-900

StageWhat to doTime
1Understand the certification overview
Read the official MS-900 description and note the high‑level objectives and target audience.
Week 1
2Study core Microsoft 365 services
Learn the basics of Microsoft 365 cloud services, productivity tools, and SaaS concepts as outlined in the article.
Week 2-3
3Grasp cloud, security, and compliance basics
Focus on cloud concepts, security fundamentals, and compliance basics that are part of the exam content.
Week 4
4Review pricing and support models
Familiarize yourself with Microsoft 365 pricing tiers, licensing options, and support structures.
Week 5
5Hands‑on practice and review
Use trial accounts or sandbox environments to apply what you’ve learned and solidify knowledge.
Week 6
6Final self‑assessment
Take practice questions, identify weak spots, and review key concepts before scheduling the exam.
Week 7

Jobs and salary with MS-900

People holding this certification commonly report pay around $65K–$85K. Pay depends heavily on role, location and total experience. See the salary breakdown.

Roles this certification supports

M365 AdministratorIT Helpdesk SpecialistProductivity AnalystBusiness UserStudent entering the Microsoft ecosystem

MS-900 questions answered

What is the Microsoft 365 Fundamentals (MS-900) certification?

A beginner-level certification introducing Microsoft 365 cloud services, productivity tools, and SaaS concepts. It is issued by Microsoft and sits in the IT Fundamentals field.

Is Microsoft 365 Fundamentals (MS-900) hard?

Microsoft 365 Fundamentals (MS-900) is rated Beginner. Most candidates can prepare without prior professional experience in the field.

How much does the Microsoft 365 Fundamentals (MS-900) exam cost?

The listed exam fee is $99. Fees vary by country and change over time, so confirm the current price with Microsoft before you book.

What salary can I expect with Microsoft 365 Fundamentals (MS-900)?

Professionals with Microsoft 365 Fundamentals (MS-900) commonly report pay in the $65K–$85K range. Actual pay depends on role, location and total experience.

How should I prepare for Microsoft 365 Fundamentals (MS-900)?

Start with the official exam outline, build hands-on practice for each domain, then finish with timed practice questions. The study plan on this page breaks this into steps.

Alternatives to MS-900

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CompTIA A+CompTIABeginner
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