3/23/2001 -- Microsoft announced this week a registration program for candidates interested in taking beta versions of its upcoming Office XP exams.

Candidates who register through the Microsoft Web site have a chance to sit for one or more of four new Office XP beta exams that have been announced:

 
• Microsoft Word 2002 Core
 
• Microsoft Excel 2002 Core
 
• Microsoft Word 2002 Expert
 
• Microsoft Excel 2002 Expert

According to the Microsoft Web site, testing will be conducted during May and June of this year at locations throughout the U.S. Not all registrants will be invited to participate -- selection will be based on location, industry,   and familiarity with Office XP Version 2002 applications, among other factors

The beta exams are free, although some testing centers may charge a fee of $10 to $15. Each beta exam will include 25 to 35 questions and will have a time limit of 90 minutes. According to Microsoft, those who pass their selected beta exam will become MOUS XP certified.

To register, or to find out more about this beta program, click here. -B.N.