For those of you who are on the certification path, you will probably be interested in some of the new certification promotions Microsoft has currently launched. Microsoft recognizes the value of achieving different certifications and encourages candidates to continue learning by offering various promotions.

The first promotion, the two for one MCP exam, pertains to exam 70-270. This idea behind this promotion is that it is always easier to do something with a buddy and this includes studying for a certification exam. You can register for the offer on the Microsoft Learning Web site. So find a study buddy and one of you can take the exam for free. Hurry, though, because this promotion is scheduled to end May 31, 2005.

In conjunction with this promotion, Microsoft is also allowing you to take advantage of its E-Learning course for free. Until May 31, 2005, you will have unlimited access to the E-Learning course #2285 that is designed to help candidates prepare for exam 70-270. So not only can you and a friend get a free exam voucher but you can also get access to free training materials.

Now to provide you with yet more incentive to get certified, if you achieve your MCSA certification for Windows Server 2003 by May 31, 2005, Microsoft will also give you free access to specific online resources for an entire year. The approximate value of the resources, which includes reference material on MCSA/MCSE related knowledge, is $550 per year.