Is AI-901 easy because it is a fundamentals exam? +
Easier than associate exams, but not a pure concepts test. Implementing AI solutions with Microsoft Foundry is 55-60% of the exam, and Microsoft's audience profile expects knowledge of Python syntax plus familiarity with REST APIs, SDKs and CLIs. Candidates who expect vocabulary questions get caught by code snippets and Foundry portal steps. Business-side learners should plan for some hands-on time, not just videos.
Did AI-901 replace AI-900? +
Yes. AI-900 retired on June 30, 2026, and AI-901 now leads to the Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Fundamentals credential. The structure changed significantly: AI-900's workload-by-workload outline is gone, replaced by two domains - AI concepts and capabilities (40-45%) and implementing AI solutions in Microsoft Foundry (55-60%). Older AI-900 practice tests miss most of the hands-on half.
What is the AI-901 passing score? +
You need 700 or higher on Microsoft's 1-1000 scaled score. The score is not a straight percentage of correct answers, because questions can be weighted differently. Expect multiple-choice and scenario items, some with code or portal context. The exam is available in many languages, and the English version is updated first, with localized versions typically following about eight weeks later.
What topics does AI-901 cover? +
The concepts domain covers responsible AI principles, how generative AI models work, model selection and configuration, and AI workloads such as agents, text analysis, speech, vision and information extraction. The Foundry domain covers building chat and single-agent apps with the Foundry SDK, Azure Speech in Foundry Tools, vision-enabled apps and Azure Content Understanding in Foundry Tools for extracting data from documents, images, audio and video.
How long does it take to prepare for AI-901? +
Developers who already know some Python can usually prepare in 2-4 weeks. If you have never read Python or used an Azure portal, plan for 4-6 weeks so you have time to try the Foundry quickstarts yourself. Microsoft offers a free practice assessment on its AI Skills Navigator, which is a good check before you book.
Does the AI-901 certification expire, and what does it cost? +
Microsoft fundamentals certifications do not expire, so there is no annual renewal. The exam fee is set by country or region and is lower than associate-level exams - check the Microsoft Learn exam page for your local price. If you fail, you can retake after 24 hours, with longer waits for later attempts under Microsoft's retake policy.