Microsoft Certified Fundamentals
Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) is an internationally recognized certification program designed to validate real, job-ready skills in Microsoft Office.
Overview
Microsoft Certified Fundamentals are the ideal starting point for students and early-career learners who want to build a clear understanding of Microsoft’s cloud ecosystem—including Microsoft Azure, Microsoft 365, Microsoft Power Platform, and Microsoft Dynamics. These certifications validate foundational knowledge and help learners explore pathways into high-growth fields such as cloud computing, data, AI, and cybersecurity.
As the authorized distributor in Hong Kong, we help candidates and institutions understand the MOS options, choose the right exam level, and move smoothly through the process.
Why Microsoft Certified Fundamentals
Microsoft Certified Fundamentals exams help learners understand what cloud computing is, what Microsoft cloud services offer, and how these technologies are applied in real business environments. They are designed for candidates who are exploring IT and digital careers—especially in areas where demand is growing, such as AI, data science, and cloud services.
These exams are often used in schools and training programs as a structured first step into Microsoft’s broader role-based certification pathway. Candidates are generally expected to complete approximately 150 hours of instruction and hands-on learning before taking an exam. These certifications are best suited for learners aged 14 and up, and typically have no formal prerequisites beyond what is stated in the official objective domains.
Certification Pathway: Learn → Practice → Certify
We recommend following this simple pathway to reduce uncertainty and improve pass confidence:
1) Learn (Build skills with structured materials)
Start with learning resources aligned to the certification exam objectives—such as video courseware, interactive labs, study guides, and classroom-ready curriculum. This helps candidates build skills systematically and ensures training time is focused on the outcomes that matter.
2) Practice (Try exam-style tasks before the real exam)
Use exam-style practice activities or mock tests to prepare under realistic conditions. Practice helps candidates work at their own pace, become familiar with the testing interface and question style, build confidence, and identify weak areas early.
Practice tools typically include two modes
- Testing Mode: timed, exam-like experience
- Training Mode: step-by-step guidance and feedback
3) Certify (Take the official exam)
When ready, book and take the official certification exam through Compass CLOUD. The exam is delivered in a standardized environment to ensure consistency and fairness across candidates.
Available Microsoft Certified Fundamentals Certifications
Depending on your goals, you can start with an Associate-level exam and progress to Expert-level mastery:
Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)
Validates foundational knowledge of cloud concepts and the benefits and considerations of adopting cloud services, including the Software as a Service (SaaS) model. It also introduces Microsoft’s cloud offerings and where they fit in business environments.
Microsoft Azure AI Fundamentals (AI-900)
Covers common AI and machine learning workloads and how they are implemented on Azure. Suitable for both technical and non-technical candidates; data science experience is not required, though basic programming knowledge can be helpful.
Microsoft Azure Data Fundamentals (DP-900)
Introduces core data concepts and how they are implemented using Azure data services. Includes an understanding of relational vs. non-relational data and different workload types such as transactional and analytical.
Microsoft Power Platform Fundamentals (PL-900)
For candidates who want to improve productivity by automating processes, analyzing data for insights, and creating simple app experiences using Microsoft Power Platform capabilities.
Microsoft Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals (SC-900)
Provides foundational knowledge of security, compliance, and identity across Microsoft cloud services. Designed for learners who want to understand how Microsoft solutions work together across areas like Azure and Microsoft 365.
Microsoft 365 Certified: Copilot and Agent Administration Fundamentals (AB-900)
Introduces how AI, Copilot, and intelligent agents are managed in Microsoft 365. Ideal for aspiring IT administrators, early-career IT professionals, business analysts, and project managers. Familiarity with Microsoft 365 admin centers (e.g., Teams, SharePoint, Exchange, Entra, Purview) is recommended.
Digital Badge & Certificate
After certification, you may receive a digital badge that can be shared online and verified. Digital badges can support your CV/LinkedIn profile and help employers quickly confirm your credential. (Digital badging platform: Credly.)
How to get started (Next steps)
- Choose your track and exam
- Plan your preparation (learning materials + practice tests if needed)
- Book your exam
- Take the exam & earn your credential
Need help choosing the right exam?
If you’re not sure which exam to take, we can help you choose the best option based on your goals and current level. Share the following with us:
- Your objective,
- Your target timeline,
- Any requirements you must meet.