2. The Microsoft IT Academy program is a global IT learning solution that connects educators, students, and communities It helps students during their early information technology (IT) experience Offers a life-long learning model of continuous improvement and career development

3. Helps students obtain the hands-on skills and practice needed to succeed in technology careers Web-based, so students are exposed to online learning Access to cutting-edge resources and collaboration tools **MOST IMPORTANT: You can earn valuable Microsoft Certifications!!

4. Microsoft Office Specialist Certification for Office 2010 After taking this course: – You will be eligible to pursue certification in Excel and Access with the potential to become certified in other areas Word Excel PowerPoint Access Outlook

5. Certifications can help you: differentiate yourself in today's competitive job market broaden your employment opportunities by displaying your advanced skills result in higher earning potential There is a global need for people highly skilled in Microsoft technologies, and Microsoft Certifications are the credentials you need to impress employers!

6. Regularly $125 per test FREE through Microsoft IT Academy initiative

7. Certification = Employability for Students 55% of Hiring Managers consider employee certification as a criterion for hiring 46% of Hiring Managers consider employee certification as a criterion for promotion 63% of Hiring Managers feel that certified individuals are more productive than their counterparts 40% of individuals reported that Microsoft Certification was a factor in improving their ability to find or keep a job or lead to a promotion 43% of individuals reported salary increases as a result of Microsoft certification 53% of individuals believe obtaining a certification makes them more marketable 93% report becoming more skilled in Office Applications as a result of getting certified 50% time reduction on common tasks by companies using Office certified personnel “It’s truly a global marketplace, especially in the IT world. If you don’t have a certification that validates you have the needed skills, you’re at a significant disadvantage.” Bill Doherty, @ONE Project, College System of California

8. Click on “Member Sign-In” and “Member Sign-In” again on next screen. Follow the prompts to sign in with a Live ID. You will need your IT Academy Member ID # for first-time sign in. This screen prompts you for your Live ID. If you have not previously created a Live ID, click “Sign up now”. If you have already created a Live ID, type your Email address and Password and click “Sign in”.

9. You can use any email address to create your Live ID. Complete all fields on this page and click “I Accept” (If you already have a Hotmail account, that is your Live ID) You can use any email address to create your Live ID. Complete all fields on this page and click “I Accept” (If you already have a Hotmail account, that is your Live ID)

10. Check your email (be sure to check junk mail also) for a verification message from Windows Live Team. If you did not receive it, click “Send email”. If you still do not receive, check your firewall settings and unblock filters for windowslivemail.com.

11. CERTIPORT MOS CERTIFICATION