Feedback: 45-Minute Limit for Fundamentals Exams (900-Series) is Insufficient

I am writing to provide constructive feedback regarding the current 45-minute time allocation for Microsoft 900-series Fundamentals exams (specifically referencing the AB-900).

While I understand that fundamentals exams contain fewer questions than role-based certifications, a 45-minute limit is insufficient for the intended target audience of these exams. I ask that the certification team reconsider this timing based on the following factors:

·         Inclusion of Practical Portal Navigation: A foundational assessment shouldn't be treated like an administrative speed-run, especially when the content explicitly requires candidates to understand portal navigation and configuration. Expecting beginners to mentally process complex portal interfaces and use cases significantly adds to the time required per question, making a 45-minute limit completely unrealistic.

·         Broad Depth of Knowledge Required: The AB-900 exam requires candidates to absorb, recall, and navigate a massive breadth of foundational concepts, terminology, and architectural principles across a very wide ecosystem. Expecting candidates to process and pivot between such a broad range of topics under a restrictive time limit creates unnecessary cognitive fatigue.

·         Speed vs. Comprehension: Prioritizing speed makes no sense for a foundational exam. A fundamentals assessment should evaluate whether a candidate thoroughly understands core concepts and terminology, not how quickly they can race through a timer. Testing for speed creates an artificial hurdle that undermines the actual goal of validation.

·         Target Audience Demographics: Fundamentals exams are explicitly designed for beginners, career-changers, and individuals completely new to the ecosystem. Navigating technical phrasing and scenario-based questions takes these candidates longer than it would an experienced IT professional.

·         Accessibility and Inclusion: The strict time crunch disproportionately penalizes non-native English speakers and non-diagnosed neurodivergent candidates who require more time to process dense, multi-choice technical questions, even if they completely understand the underlying core concepts.

I strongly recommend extending the seat time for 900-series exams to at least 60 minutes to ensure a fair, accessible, and positive testing experience for foundational learners.

Thank you for your time and for continuously working to improve the Microsoft Credentials program.