Is the Microsoft 365 Fundamentals Worth It?

Wondering if Microsoft's entry-level cloud certification is right for you? Here's what the MS-900 (Microsoft 365 Fundamentals) exam offers and whether it's worth your time and money.

What You'll Learn

The MS-900 covers the basics of Microsoft's cloud services, especially Microsoft 365. You'll get familiar with how businesses use cloud tools like Teams, SharePoint, and Office apps. The exam includes:

• Key cloud concepts and why companies use them
• Microsoft 365's main features and tools
• How to keep data safe in the cloud
• What different Microsoft 365 plans cost

The Good Stuff

Easy to Start With If you're new to tech certifications, this is a gentle first step. You don't need any previous certifications or special background to take the exam. The questions focus more on understanding concepts rather than complex technical details.

Budget-Friendly At $99 USD, it's one of the more affordable Microsoft certifications. Plus, you only need to pass one exam to get certified, unlike some other credentials that require multiple tests. Live outside the US? Check out the official Microsoft page for your region's pricing.

Quick to Complete Most people can prepare for this exam in a few weeks of part-time studying. The content isn't overly technical, making it easier to grasp than more advanced certifications.

Good for Business People If you work in a non-technical role but want to understand cloud services better, this certification fits perfectly. It helps you speak the language of modern business technology without getting lost in technical jargon.

The Not-So-Good Stuff

Too Basic for Some If you're already working in IT, especially with cloud services, you might find this certification too simple. It's designed for beginners and non-technical folks. If you already have experience using M365, this certification isn't going to do much for your career but cost some money.

Limited Technical Depth Don't expect to become an expert in managing complex cloud systems or solving technical problems. This cert focuses on concepts and basic knowledge rather than hands-on skills.

May Not Be Enough Alone While it's a good starting point, you might need more advanced certifications if you're looking to work directly with cloud technologies. Using our Certification Salary Analysis tool we found very few jobs that are willing to accept only the M365 Certification as the only requirement. This doesn't mean the certification isn't helpful, just that it should be the first of several other certifications and tools to help land a job in the space.

Who Should Get This Certification?

Perfect for:

• Business professionals who want better cloud technology knowledge
• People just starting their IT careers
• Small business owners who handle their own tech decisions
• Team leaders who work with Microsoft 365 tools
• Anyone curious about cloud services and Microsoft's offerings

Maybe Skip If You're:

• An experienced IT professional
• Looking for deep technical training
• Already very familiar with Microsoft 365

Getting Started

If you're ready to begin, here's your next steps:

1. Check out the official exam topics on Microsoft's website
2. Use free online resources and practice tests
3. Get hands-on experience with Microsoft 365 if possible
4. Schedule your exam when you feel prepared

Remember, success isn't just about passing the exam - it's about understanding how cloud tools can improve your work. This certification helps you do exactly that, without overwhelming you with technical details.

So if you're ready to learn about modern workplace technology and add a valuable credential to your resume, the MS-900 makes good sense. It's an investment in your future that won't hurt your wallet or take up too much of your time.