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Common Exam Guidelines

Essential information for all GitHub certification exams - System Requirements, Exam Policies, and Troubleshooting

Exam Attempt Policy

Microsoft-managed retake policy applies to all GitHub certification exams:

  • Maximum Attempts: 5 attempts per year (per exam)
  • After 1st Failure: Wait 24 hours before retaking
  • After Subsequent Failures: Wait 14 days between attempts
  • After Passing: Cannot retake unless Microsoft updates the exam version

This follows the standard Microsoft certification retake policy for exams delivered via Microsoft Learn / Pearson VUE.

System Requirements & Run System Test

Ensure your system meets the following requirements before scheduling your exam. Use the system test link to verify compatibility at least one day before your scheduled exam.

Operating System

Windows 10 or macOS 10.15 and above

Internet Connection

Stable connection with at least 2 Mbps upload/download speed

Webcam

Built-in or external webcam with 720p resolution or higher

Microphone

Functional microphone for communication with proctor

Run Pearson VUE OnVUE System Test

Corporate Users Advisory

If you are using a corporate laptop or office network, please ensure the following:

  • Obtain necessary admin rights to install proctoring software
  • Disable VPN or proxy settings during the exam
  • Contact your IT department for assistance with firewall configuration
  • Test your setup using the OnVUE system test at least 24 hours before your exam

Warning: Failure to meet these requirements may result in exam interruptions or disqualification.

Official Links

Official Learning Path

GitHub Foundations - Microsoft Learn

Visit

Practice Assessment

Official Microsoft Learn Practice Test

Take Test

CodeSpaces

Link to GitHub CodeSpaces

Practise

Certification Poster

Microsoft Certification Poster (PDF)

View

GitHub Documentation

Official GitHub Docs and Guides

Explore

GitHub Skills

Interactive Learning Platform

Learn

Video Tutorials

Learning from YouTube Channel

Watch

MarketPlace

Experience the Github MarketPlace

Launch

Exam Preparation Tips

Follow these best practices to maximize your chances of success in any GitHub certification exam.

Hands-on Experience

Create repositories and practice GitHub features in real projects to gain practical experience

Time Management

Practice completing tests within the allotted time to develop good pacing habits

Study Documentation

Review GitHub's official documentation and Microsoft Learn modules thoroughly

Watch Tutorials

Supplement your learning with video tutorials and walkthroughs

Join Communities

Engage with other certification candidates in forums and study groups

Skills Survey & Self-Assessment

Before taking any GitHub certification exam, you can self-assess your skills using the following levels. These levels are for your personal evaluation and do not affect your exam eligibility or results.

Beginner

New to GitHub and related technologies. Limited hands-on experience.

Intermediate

Familiar with GitHub workflows and related features. Some practical experience.

Advanced

Proficient in GitHub and related technologies. Extensive hands-on experience.

Important Note

The self-assessment levels are optional and meant to help you gauge your readiness. They do not impact your exam registration or certification process.

Recommendation: If you identify as a beginner, we recommend completing all official Microsoft Learn modules and practicing with mock tests before scheduling your exam.

Common Issues & How to Avoid Them

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Common Issues Faced During the Exam (Click to Expand)

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Technical Issues
  • Internet Connection: Unstable or slow connection causing exam interruption
  • Webcam Issues: Webcam not detected or poor video quality
  • Firewall/Antivirus: Security software blocking proctoring software
  • VPN Interference: VPN or proxy causing connection problems
  • Browser Compatibility: Using unsupported or outdated browsers
  • System Requirements: Computer not meeting minimum specifications
  • Software Updates: Pending system updates interfering with exam software
  • Admin Rights: If you are using a company laptop, you may need admin rights to allow network connection
Environment Issues
  • Background Noise: Family members, pets, or external noise disrupting exam
  • Poor Lighting: Insufficient lighting affecting identity verification
  • Room Entry: Someone entering the room during the exam
  • Multiple Monitors: Not properly disconnecting additional displays
  • Unauthorized Materials: Books, papers, or devices visible in frame
  • Workspace Setup: Cluttered desk or improper workspace arrangement
  • Phone Accessibility: Mobile phone within reach or visible
Identity Verification Issues
  • Invalid ID: Expired or non-government issued identification
  • Name Mismatch: Name on ID doesn't match registration details
  • Photo Quality: Blurry or unclear ID photo during verification
  • ID Not Accepted: Using ID type not approved by Pearson VUE
  • Face Recognition: Wearing accessories that obscure face (glasses, mask)
  • Room Scan Issues: Incomplete or improper room environment scan
How to Avoid These Problems - Pre-Exam Checklist
Technical Preparation
  • Test system 24 hours before exam
  • Run OnVUE system check
  • Use wired internet connection
  • Disable VPN and antivirus
  • Close all unnecessary programs
  • Update system and browser
Environment Setup
  • Choose quiet, private room
  • Clear desk completely
  • Ensure proper lighting (front-facing)
  • Inform household members
  • Put phone in another room
  • Disconnect extra monitors
Identity & Documentation
  • Verify ID is valid and not expired
  • Confirm name matches registration
  • Have government-issued photo ID ready
  • Remove glasses if possible
  • Practice room scan procedure
  • Read Pearson VUE policies

Pro Tips:

  • Schedule exam during your peak focus hours
  • Start check-in process 30 minutes early
  • Keep Pearson VUE support number handy: 1-866-488-4221
  • Take a bathroom break before starting check-in
  • Have water in a clear container (if allowed)

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