MS-102 exam-day guide
MS-102 · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Valid government-issued photo ID
Bring an original, unexpired ID with photo and signature if required. The name must match your exam registration exactly. Confirm accepted ID types with Pearson VUE/Microsoft before test day. [needs_review]
Appointment confirmation and candidate ID
Have your confirmation email, registration/candidate ID, exam name (MS-102), and start time available. Confirm the time zone shown on the appointment.
Provider system test on the same computer
For online proctoring, run the provider's equipment check on the exact computer, browser, webcam, microphone, and network you will use. Re-run it 24 hours before. [needs_review]
Quiet, private, well-lit room
Use a room with a closed door, no other people, and no interruptions. Be prepared for a room and desk scan if testing online.
Clean desk and no unauthorized materials
Remove notes, papers, phones, smartwatches, second monitors, and other devices from reach. Keep only items the proctor allows. [needs_review]
Stable power and internet
Use a reliable connection and keep the device plugged in. Have a backup plan, but confirm with the provider whether switching networks or devices mid-exam is allowed.
Confirm exam logistics and break policy
Check the appointment details for duration, number of questions, scheduled breaks, and whether unscheduled breaks stop the timer. Policies vary; confirm with the provider. [needs_review]
High-level review of MS-102 domains
Skim your weak areas: tenant deployment and management, identity synchronization and access, Microsoft 365 Defender security, and Microsoft Purview compliance. Do not start new topics the night before.
Arrival or log-in buffer
Arrive at the test center or start the online check-in early-aim for at least 30 minutes before the appointment. Confirm the provider's recommended buffer. [needs_review]
Rest, food, and water before the exam
Sleep, eat, and hydrate before the appointment. Avoid last-minute cramming that increases anxiety.
Plan the day
Confirm appointment details, ID name match, test center location or online proctoring requirements. Run the system test. Review your weakest MS-102 objectives at a high level and do light hands-on review in a sandbox tenant if available.
Stop studying new material. Build a one-page mental map of the four domains: tenant, identity/access, security/threat protection, and compliance.
Re-run the system test, charge devices, prepare the room, gather ID and confirmation, and confirm start time/time zone. Get a full night's sleep.
Avoid alcohol and heavy cramming. Briefly review portal locations and terms you often confuse, such as Entra Connect vs. Cloud Sync, Defender incidents, and Purview solutions.
Eat, hydrate, and log in or arrive early. Close all unauthorized applications. Keep your phone away and silenced.
Have your ID ready for the proctor. Complete the room scan and desk scan calmly. If online, ensure your face is visible and lighting is adequate.
Read each question fully; watch for 'not' and 'best' wording. Use the flag feature for uncertain items and return to them if time permits.
Keep an eye on the clock. Answer every question. If a technical issue occurs, stop and contact the proctor immediately; do not troubleshoot in a way that could look like unauthorized activity.
If you finish early, review flagged questions and confirm no unanswered items before submitting.
Rules to check
Present valid government-issued photo ID; the name must match your registration. If your ID name differs, contact the provider before exam day to resolve it.
Do not use unauthorized materials or devices-notes, phones, smartwatches, second monitors, or reference sheets. Confirm with the provider what is allowed, such as a virtual whiteboard.
During online proctoring, stay in camera view, keep the door closed, and do not talk to anyone. Unauthorized breaks may not stop the timer; confirm break rules with the provider.
Follow the proctor's instructions. If you need to leave, adjust equipment, or report a technical problem, ask the proctor first.
Microsoft exams are typically scored on a scaled scale, with 700/1000 commonly reported as passing. Confirm the current passing score and score-report details with Microsoft or Pearson VUE. [needs_review]
Answer every question. Microsoft exams generally do not penalize guessing, but confirm scoring rules with the provider if unsure. [needs_review]
Do not disclose, copy, or discuss exam content. You will likely agree to an NDA; violating it can invalidate your result.
If you fail to appear or have an ID/technical issue, follow the provider's reschedule and incident-report process immediately; do not assume the appointment will be reinstated.