In light of the upcoming releases of Visual Studio 2013 and Windows 8.1, you may be wondering how the updates will affect the corresponding MCSD: Windows Store Apps certifications.

Here are a few things you can count on:

  • As more details emerge about the product updates, we will post information on the certification and exam detail pages to let you know when the exams will be updated and what the exams will cover.
  • We will not be changing exam numbers for exams needed to initially earn the MCSD certifications, so it will be important to check the certification and exam detail web pages when planning your studies and preparing for exams.
  • To serve those individuals wishing to renew their MCSD certification, we will be releasing new recertification exams in the same timeframe as the updated exams.
  • Training content will be made available prior to any certification exam updates to help you prepare. Any training you have already done has set you well on your way to learning the skills you need to earn the certifications.

Whether you have started on the path to earning your MCSD certification or are just about to begin, we recommend that you continue moving forward. For developer certifications on Windows 8 application development with Visual Studio 2012, the exams you take now will still count towards your certification.

As the new technology updates become available, you will see a variety of training made available through Microsoft Learning Partner offerings, searchable here. These resources may include First Look clinics, hands-on labs, and courses using Microsoft Official Course content. In addition, many training resources will be available to you directly through Microsoft Virtual Academy (MVA).  The following MVA courses geared towards exam preparation are available now:

For the latest information on upcoming changes to the certifications and related exams, please review our Visual Studio FAQ.