Compare Modern Work certifications
Not sure which Modern Work exam to take? This table compares level, study time, and exam format, with free practice for each on MS Exam Lab.
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About the Modern Work track
Modern Work is the Microsoft 365 administrator's track: Teams governance (MS-700), endpoint management with Intune (MD-102), and tenant-wide administration (MS-102). These roles exist in nearly every mid-size and large company that runs on M365, and the certs are a natural follow-on to MS-900 fundamentals.
| Certification | Level | Study time | Exam format | Practice |
|---|
| AB-730: AI Business Professional | Fundamentals | 1–2 weeks | ~45 questions, 45 min | Practice free |
| MS-900: Microsoft 365 Fundamentals | Fundamentals | 1–2 weeks | ~45 questions, 45 min | Practice free |
| AB-650: AI Services Administrator Associate (beta) | Associate | 4–6 weeks | ~50 questions, 100 min | Practice free |
| AZ-800: Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate | Associate | 4–6 weeks | ~50 questions, 100 min | Practice free |
| MD-102: Endpoint Administrator Associate | Associate | 4–6 weeks | ~50 questions, 100 min | Practice free |
| MS-700: Teams Administrator Associate | Associate | 4–6 weeks | ~50 questions, 100 min | Practice free |
| MS-721: Collaboration Communications Systems Engineer Associate | Associate | 4–6 weeks | ~50 questions, 100 min | Practice free |
| SC-401: Information Security Administrator Associate | Associate | 4–6 weeks | ~50 questions, 100 min | Practice free |
| MO-101: Expert (Office 2019) | Expert | 8–12 weeks | ~50 questions, 120 min | Practice free |
| MS-102: Administrator Expert | Expert | 8–12 weeks | ~50 questions, 120 min | Practice free |
| SC-100: Cybersecurity Architect Expert | Expert | 8–12 weeks | ~50 questions, 120 min | Practice free |
Frequently asked questions
Which Modern Work certification should I take first?
Most people start with MS-900 (Microsoft 365 Fundamentals), a Fundamentals-level cert that builds the base before the more role-specific Modern Work exams.
What's the difference between MS-900 and MS-721?
MS-900 is Fundamentals-level and proves broad, conceptual knowledge. MS-721 is Associate-level and proves you can perform real tasks with the product. MS-900 is a common (not required) on-ramp to MS-721.
Do I need MS-900 before MS-721?
No. Microsoft doesn't require MS-900 before MS-721. But if you're new to Modern Work, starting with MS-900 makes MS-721 much easier.
When should I pursue MS-102?
MS-102 is Expert-level and aimed at experienced professionals. Earn a relevant Associate cert and get hands-on time first.
Is there free practice for these Modern Work exams?
Yes. MS Exam Lab offers free, unlimited practice for every Modern Work certification, weighted to the official skills outline.
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