M365 Admin Expert

Question

Hello,
I've passed MS-102 exam first, now I am preparing to pass SC-300 so as I understood when I will pass it before 30 November (learn path is closing) Will I achieve the badge for one year valid?

Answer 1

Yes—if MS-102 is already passed and an eligible prerequisite certification is active, passing SC-300 will complete the requirements for Microsoft 365 Certified: Administrator Expert.

Key points:

1. MS-102 is the required exam for the Administrator Expert certification.
2. A prerequisite certification is also required to earn the badge. The certification page states that one of the required certifications must also be earned.
3. SC-300 aligns to the Identity and Access Administrator Associate certification path, which is listed as one of the prerequisite certifications for Microsoft 365 Administrator Expert.
4. The certification expires annually. Microsoft states that associate, expert, and specialty certifications expire every year and can be renewed by passing the free online renewal assessment on Microsoft Learn.
5. MS-102 retires on November 30, 2026, not 30 November of this year. If both requirements are completed before the retirement date, the certification can still be earned.

So, if SC-300 is passed and the related prerequisite certification becomes active before November 30, 2026, the Microsoft 365 Certified: Administrator Expert badge will be awarded, and it will be valid for one year, with renewal available annually.

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• Exam MS-102: Microsoft 365 Administrator
• Microsoft 365 Certified: Administrator Expert
• Study guide for Exam MS-102: Microsoft 365 Administrator
• Microsoft Identity and Access Administrator
• I passed MS-102 exam in 01/09/2025 but still I have not received certificate, please help - Microsoft Q&A