FY27 August skilling updates
⚠️ Two certifications retired on August 31, 2026 as Microsoft updated partner skilling requirements for AI-focused roles: AZ-500 gives way to SC-500, and PL-200 to AB-410.
⚠️ Certifications completed before retirement remain valid for one year under this announcement.
🤖 The update affects relevant Security and AI Business Solutions designation paths plus Agentic Business Solutions, Azure Virtual Desktop, Cloud Security, and infrastructure/database migration specializations.
⚠️ Partners should compare their team’s current credentials with the updated specialization requirements in Partner Center before renewal, rather than assuming that a retired exam immediately invalidates an already-earned certification.
Partner briefing
- What it is
AI-focused certification replacements.
- What’s changing
AZ-500 and PL-200 retired August 31, 2026 in favor of SC-500 and AB-410. Previously completed credentials remain valid for one year under this announcement.
- Why it matters
Compare team credentials against affected designation and specialization requirements before renewal.
- Who it affects
Partners pursuing relevant Security, AI Business Solutions and Azure specializations.