2/25/2004 -- Microsoft recently announced a promotion offering a 20 percent discount on the exams for its new Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST) certification. The 20-percent discount applies worldwide, but only at participating Prometric and Pearson Vue testing centers.

The MCDST exams -- 70-271: Supporting Users and Troubleshooting a Windows XP Operating System and 70-272: Supporting Users and Troubleshooting Desktop Applications on a Windows XP Operating System -- each retail for $125 (U.S.).. During the promotion, Microsoft is discounting the exams to $100. (Regional, non-U.S. pricing will reflect a similar 20-percent discount.) Candidates must complete exams by August 31, 2004.

To apply for the discount, candidates must use the code MDSTEX when registering.

For candidates in the U.S. who need training, Microsoft is extending the 20 percent discount to the following Microsoft Official Curriculum courses:

• Course 2261: Supporting Users Running the Microsoft Windows XP Operating System (three-day, instructor-led course)
• Course 2262: Supporting Users Running Applications on a Microsoft Windows XP Operating System (two days, instructor-led)

The 20 percent discount appears to be availalble only at U.S.-based CTECs. Courses must be completed by June 28, 2004.

For more details on the exam-only promotion and code, click here. For more about the training discount, click here. For official MCDST track requirements, click here. -Becky Nagel, with additional reporting by Michael Domingo