How to Save on Microsoft AI Certification Exams: Vouchers, Discounts and Free Exam Opportunities in 2026
Discover every way to reduce the cost of Microsoft AI certification exams in 2026, from the live Credentials AI Challenge to beta discounts, employer programmes, student pricing and third-party vouchers.
Examinotion Team
Last Updated: February 2026
Microsoft AI certifications are among the most sought-after credentials for business professionals in 2026. Yet the exam fee — $99 USD for Beginner-level exams such as AB-730, AB-731 and AB-900, or $165 USD for the Expert-level AB-100 — can feel like a significant investment, especially if you are pursuing more than one certification.
The good news is that you rarely need to pay the full price. Microsoft runs regular promotions, offers beta exam discounts, and supports employer-funded voucher programmes that can cut your costs by 50% or more. This guide covers every legitimate way to save money on Microsoft AI certification exams in 2026.
What Do Microsoft AI Certification Exams Cost?
Before exploring discounts, it helps to understand the standard pricing. Microsoft sets a base price in USD, but the amount you pay varies by the country or region where you take the exam. Always check Pearson VUE for the exact price in your region.
| Exam | Level | Standard Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| AB-900 (Copilot and Agent Administration Fundamentals) | Beginner | $99 |
| AB-730 (AI Business Professional) | Beginner | $99 |
| AB-731 (AI Transformation Leader) | Beginner | $99 |
| AB-100 (Agentic AI Business Solutions Architect) | Expert | $165 |
Important: Prices vary by country. For example, the same exam may cost a different amount in the United Kingdom or Canada. Exam vouchers are region-specific, so a voucher purchased for one region cannot be used in another. See Pearson VUE for your local pricing.
Microsoft Credentials AI Challenge (Ends 2 March 2026)
The single best opportunity available right now is the Microsoft Credentials AI Challenge, which runs from 20 January to 2 March 2026. A total of 5,000 winners will receive a 50% discount voucher for an eligible certification exam.
How to participate
- Choose a challenge. Select from six curated tracks — three Applied Skills challenges and three Certification-aligned challenges covering AI chat workflows, AI research agents and Copilot Studio.
- Earn an Applied Skills credential. Complete a free, interactive, lab-based assessment during the challenge window (20 January — 2 March 2026).
- Submit your sweepstakes entry. Enter at aka.ms/AIChallengeEntry by 2 March 2026.
Which exams qualify?
The 50% discount voucher applies to three exams:
- AB-730 — Microsoft Certified: AI Business Professional
- AB-731 — Microsoft Certified: AI Transformation Leader
- AB-900 — Microsoft 365 Certified: Copilot and Agent Administration Fundamentals
AB-100 is not eligible for this particular challenge.
Key deadlines
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Challenge opens | 20 January 2026 |
| Challenge closes / entry deadline | 2 March 2026 |
| First drawing (after Prize Period 1) | Early February 2026 |
| Final drawing | 4 March 2026 |
| Voucher expiry | 30 June 2026 |
Winners are notified by email within seven days of each weekly drawing. Vouchers must be redeemed and the exam completed before 30 June 2026.
Source: Microsoft Credentials AI Challenge | Official Sweepstakes Rules
Beta Exam Discounts (80% Off)
Every new Microsoft certification exam goes through a beta period before becoming generally available. During this window, the first 300 candidates can take the exam at an 80% discount — typically just $20–33 USD instead of the standard $99–165.
How beta exams work
- Microsoft announces the beta exam on the Microsoft Learn Blog with a unique discount code.
- The first 300 people who register using the code receive the 80% discount.
- The beta window lasts approximately three to four weeks.
- If you pass, the certification counts immediately — you do not need to retake the generally available version.
- All beta participants who used the 80% discount code receive a 25% discount voucher on their next exam once rescoring is complete.
Current status of AB-series beta exams
All four AB-series exams have completed their beta periods and are now generally available:
| Exam | Beta Period | Beta Code | Current Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| AB-730 | 2025 | – | Generally Available |
| AB-731 | 2025 | – | Generally Available |
| AB-900 | Late 2025 | AB900Goals26 | Generally Available |
| AB-100 | Oct–Nov 2025 | – | Generally Available |
While you cannot access beta pricing for these exams today, this strategy is worth remembering for future Microsoft certifications. Bookmark the Microsoft Learn Blog and act quickly when new exams are announced — beta seats fill within days.
Source: About Beta Certification Exams | AB-900 Beta Announcement
Free Exam Vouchers from Microsoft Events
Microsoft regularly offers exam vouchers at its major conferences and through associated online challenges. While past opportunities have closed, understanding the pattern helps you plan ahead.
Microsoft Ignite
Microsoft Ignite is the company's flagship technology conference, typically held in November. Historically, it has offered:
- In-person attendees: One free certification exam voucher
- Online Ignite Challenge participants: A sweepstakes for 5,000 winners to receive 50% discount vouchers
The most recent Ignite Challenge (November–December 2025) awarded 50% discount vouchers valid for any Pearson VUE-delivered Microsoft certification exam, with vouchers expiring 30 April 2026.
Microsoft Build
Microsoft Build is the annual developer conference, typically held in May. Previous editions have offered free certification exam vouchers through Build Cloud Skills Challenges. Details for Microsoft Build 2026 have not been announced, but it is worth monitoring the official Build website for updates.
Cloud Skills Challenges
Throughout the year, Microsoft runs Cloud Skills Challenges tied to various events and seasonal campaigns (Spring Skills Challenge, Ignite Challenge, etc.). The format is consistent:
- Register for the challenge on Microsoft Learn
- Complete the required learning modules within the deadline
- Enter the sweepstakes for a chance to win a free or discounted exam voucher
Tip: Follow the Microsoft Learn Blog and the Microsoft Certification Hub to stay informed about upcoming challenges and voucher opportunities.
Employer and Enterprise Programmes
If you work for an organisation with a Microsoft relationship, you may already have access to free or discounted exam vouchers without realising it.
Microsoft Enterprise Skills Initiative (ESI)
The Enterprise Skills Initiative is one of the most generous certification programmes available. Participating organisations receive:
- Free exam vouchers (100% discount) for certification prep courses, worth up to $165 each
- Unlimited enrolment in Microsoft instructor-led courses for a 12-month period
- One-time exam retakes included with each voucher
- 50% discount vouchers available for purchase through the ESI portal
ESI is available to organisations with a significant Azure subscription or bulk MSDN agreement with Microsoft. If you are unsure whether your employer participates, contact your IT department or Microsoft account representative.
Microsoft Partner Network
Organisations that are members of the Microsoft Partner Network receive certification vouchers as part of their membership benefits. For fiscal year 2026, Microsoft has described its partner programme as offering "a record year of incentives," including:
- Hackathon-based training programmes with certification opportunities
- Regional workshops and AI roadshows
- Cloud service provider certification weeks
If you work for a Microsoft Partner, ask your Partner Network administrator about available exam vouchers.
Source: Enterprise Skills Initiative | Microsoft FY26 Partner Benefits
Student and Academic Discounts
Microsoft offers academic pricing on certification exams in most countries and regions. If you are a student or educator, you may be eligible for reduced exam fees.
How to access academic pricing
- Check with your institution. Ask your university or college IT department whether they participate in Microsoft education programmes.
- Use Certiport. Students and educators can schedule exams through Certiport, an educational testing provider, which may offer lower fees.
- Explore Microsoft Learn Educator Centre. The Microsoft Learn Educator Centre provides free resources and may include certification benefits.
Note: Academic pricing is not available in India or China. In all other regions, check with your institution or Pearson VUE for specific discounts.
Source: Student Discounts | Microsoft Learn
Third-Party Voucher Resellers
Several authorised resellers offer Microsoft certification exam vouchers at a discount, often bundled with practice tests. This can be a good option if you want both a voucher and study materials.
Authorised resellers to consider
| Reseller | What They Offer |
|---|---|
| GetCertified4Less | Discount exam vouchers, international vouchers, MeasureUp practice test bundles |
| MindHub | Microsoft Exam Replay (exam + retake + practice test bundle) |
MeasureUp practice test bundles
MeasureUp, the official Microsoft practice test provider, offers bundles that include an exam voucher alongside a 180-day practice test subscription. This combination provides:
- Study Mode: Learn all exam objectives with detailed explanations
- Certification Mode: Simulate exam conditions with timed practice
- A valid exam voucher to schedule your certification attempt
MeasureUp is currently running a 45% discount on practice tests for 2026.
Important warnings
- Only buy from authorised resellers. Fraudulent voucher codes will not be accepted by Pearson VUE, and you will have no recourse.
- Check regional restrictions. Vouchers are region-specific. Verify that the voucher you purchase is valid for the country where you plan to take the exam.
- Be wary of prices far below market rate. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
How to Apply a Voucher Code on Pearson VUE
If you have a voucher code from any source, here is how to use it:
- Visit the exam details page on Microsoft Learn and click "Schedule exam."
- Sign in with your personal Microsoft account (recommended over organisational accounts, which may result in lost records if you change employers).
- Ensure your legal name matches your government-issued ID exactly.
- Click the Pearson VUE button and choose between an online proctored exam or a test centre.
- Select your preferred date and time.
- Enter the voucher code during the payment step. The discount will be applied automatically.
Tip: Exam vouchers have expiry dates. Always check the validity period before scheduling, and book your exam well in advance of the expiry date.
Source: Schedule through Pearson VUE
Total Cost Breakdown: Certification on a Budget
The table below shows what you could pay for each exam using the discount strategies covered in this guide.
| Exam | Standard Price | With 50% AI Challenge Voucher | With Beta Discount (Future Exams) | With ESI Voucher |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AB-900 | $99 | $49.50 | ~$20 | $0 |
| AB-730 | $99 | $49.50 | ~$20 | $0 |
| AB-731 | $99 | $49.50 | ~$20 | $0 |
| AB-100 | $165 | Not eligible | ~$33 (beta ended) | $0–$82.50 |
Planning multiple certifications? If you are pursuing more than one AB-series exam, combine different strategies. For example, use an AI Challenge voucher for AB-730, take advantage of a future beta discount for a new exam, and ask your employer about ESI for the rest.
Remember: Certification renewals are free. Once you pass an exam, you can renew the certification annually through free online assessments on Microsoft Learn — no additional exam fee required.
Free Resources to Prepare Before You Book
Whatever you pay for the exam itself, preparation can be completely free. Microsoft provides comprehensive study materials at no cost:
| Resource | What It Covers | Link | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Official Study Guides | Exam objectives, domains and weighting | AB-730 | AB-731 | AB-900 | AB-100 |
| Microsoft Learn Modules | Self-paced interactive learning paths | Microsoft Learn | |||
| Exam Readiness Zone | Video walkthroughs of exam content | Exam Readiness Zone | |||
| Exam Sandbox | Demo the exam interface before test day | Exam Sandbox | |||
| Applied Skills | Free hands-on labs (APL-6500, APL-6501) | Microsoft Learn | |||
| Examinotion Practice Exams | Realistic practice questions with detailed explanations | Examinotion |
For a structured study plan, see our guides: How to Prepare for AB-730 in 30 Days, How to Pass the AB-731 Exam, How to Pass the AB-900 Exam, and How to Pass the AB-100 Exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do Microsoft AI certification exams cost?
Microsoft AI certification exams cost $99 USD for Beginner-level exams (AB-730, AB-731 and AB-900) and $165 USD for the Expert-level AB-100 exam. Prices vary by country — check Pearson VUE for exact pricing in your region.
What is the Microsoft Credentials AI Challenge?
The Microsoft Credentials AI Challenge is a promotional event running from 20 January to 2 March 2026. Participants who earn a free Applied Skills credential and enter the sweepstakes have the chance to win a 50% discount voucher for the AB-730, AB-731 or AB-900 exam. A total of 5,000 vouchers will be awarded.
Can I get a free Microsoft certification exam?
Yes, through several channels. Microsoft offers free exam vouchers to in-person attendees of Microsoft Ignite, to organisations enrolled in the Enterprise Skills Initiative (ESI), and occasionally through Cloud Skills Challenge sweepstakes. Monitoring the Microsoft Learn Blog is the best way to stay informed about these opportunities.
What is a beta exam and how do I get the discount?
Beta exams are early versions of new Microsoft certifications offered at an 80% discount to the first 300 registrants. Microsoft announces beta exams on the Microsoft Learn Blog with a unique discount code. If you pass a beta exam, your certification counts immediately.
Are Microsoft exam vouchers transferable?
Generally, exam vouchers are non-transferable and region-specific. A voucher purchased or won in one region cannot be used in another. Always check the terms and conditions of your specific voucher.
How long are exam vouchers valid?
Voucher validity varies by source. AI Challenge vouchers expire 30 June 2026. Ignite Challenge vouchers expire 30 April 2026. Third-party vouchers typically have their own expiry dates printed on the voucher or confirmation email. Always schedule your exam well before the expiry date.
What happens if I fail — do I lose my voucher?
It depends on the voucher type. Standard single-use vouchers are consumed on your first attempt, regardless of outcome. However, Microsoft Exam Replay bundles (available through MindHub) include one free retake if you fail your first attempt.
Does my employer offer free certification vouchers?
Potentially, yes. If your employer has a Microsoft Enterprise Skills Initiative (ESI) agreement or is a Microsoft Partner, you may have access to free or discounted exam vouchers. Contact your IT department or training manager to find out.
Start Preparing Today
The cost of a certification exam should not stand between you and career advancement. Whether you enter the Microsoft Credentials AI Challenge, take advantage of employer programmes, or watch for the next beta exam opportunity, there are numerous ways to reduce your costs.
The most important step is to start preparing now. Use the free resources on Microsoft Learn, practise with realistic exam questions on Examinotion, and schedule your exam when you feel confident.
Good luck with your certification journey.
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