MB-820
Exam MB-820: Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central Developer
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ExploreAbout this exam
Microsoft Certified: Dynamics 365 Business Central Developer Associate is an intermediate-level Microsoft certification for developers who design, develop, test, and maintain solutions built on Dynamics 365 Business Central. Earning it requires passing Exam MB-820, a proctored exam that lasts 100 minutes and requires a score of 700 or greater. The credential targets professionals who extend Business Central with apps written in AL, integrate it with other applications such as Microsoft Power Platform products, keep data current through upgrades, and troubleshoot and optimize the system. Microsoft also expects familiarity with AppSource, application lifecycle management (ALM) including source control management and CI/CD, and Business Central's role relative to Microsoft 365 and Dynamics 365. The skills measured as of June 10, 2025 fall into six areas: Describe Business Central (10–15%); Install, develop, and deploy for Business Central (10–15%); Develop by using AL objects (35–40%); Develop by using AL (15–20%); Work with development tools (10–15%); and Integrate Business Central with other applications (10–15%). Because AL objects carry the largest weight, put most of your hands-on practice there. Prepare with the official study guide, Microsoft Learn training and documentation, and the practice assessment. This page is an independent study resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Microsoft.
What you'll study
About MB-820 preparation
How long is Exam MB-820, and what score do I need to pass?
You have 100 minutes to complete the assessment, and a score of 700 or greater is required to pass. The exam is proctored, and Microsoft notes that you may have interactive components to complete as part of it. Plan your pacing so you can finish those interactive sections without rushing.
How many questions are on the exam?
Microsoft does not publish a question count on the exam details page or in the study guide, so treat any specific number you see elsewhere with caution. Focus on pacing instead: 100 minutes total with a mix of question types. Practicing with timed sets will tell you more than a count would.
If I fail, when can I retake the exam?
You can retake it 24 hours after the first attempt. For subsequent retakes, the amount of time varies, so review Microsoft's exam retake policy for full details before rescheduling. Use the waiting period to revisit your weakest skills area, which is often AL objects.
Does the certification expire, and how do I renew it?
Yes. Microsoft associate, expert, and specialty certifications expire annually, and this credential lists a renewal frequency of 12 months. You renew at no cost by passing an online assessment on Microsoft Learn, so your certification can stay current without retaking MB-820.
Which skills area should I study first?
Develop by using AL objects is the largest area at 35–40%, so give it the most time: tables, pages, enums, reports, XMLports, codeunits, permission sets, and queries. Then cover Develop by using AL (15–20%), followed by the four areas weighted 10–15% each. Sequence by weight, but don't skip integration or tooling.
Are there prerequisites for the exam?
Microsoft doesn't list formal prerequisites. The audience profile expects applied knowledge of Business Central and AL, the development environment and related tools, some knowledge of installing and upgrading the system, industry terminology, how Business Central relates to Microsoft 365 and Dynamics 365, plus AppSource and ALM concepts such as SCM and CI/CD.
How should I prepare for MB-820?
Start with the official study guide, then work through Microsoft Learn self-paced paths and the AL and Business Central documentation. Take the practice assessment, which is available through AI Skills Navigator and requires you to sign in, and use the exam sandbox to see the interface and question types before exam day.
What languages is the exam offered in?
The exam is offered in English, Chinese (Simplified), German, Spanish, French, Japanese, and Portuguese (Brazil). If it isn't available in your preferred language, you can request an additional 30 minutes to complete the exam. Availability appears in the Schedule Exam section of the exam details page.
How much does the exam cost?
Pricing is based on the country or region in which the exam is proctored, so there is no single global fee. Check the exam details page for your region before scheduling through Pearson Vue. Microsoft also recommends registering with a personal MSA account, because records tied to organizational accounts can be lost.