FAQ

What is the cost of an exam?
The exam costs vary depending on the country in which you live. Please contact your country Sun office or Web site to inquire about pricing.

How do I purchase an exam?
Follow links to certification descriptions and follow easy steps to purchase online. Please note that exams must be purchased from the Sun country office or Web site in which they will be used.

How can I have my exam voucher extended past the expiration date?
When exam vouchers are purchased you have up to one year from the date of purchase to use it. Each voucher is valid for one exam and may only be used at an Authorized Prometric Testing Center in the country for which it was purchased. Exam expiration dates cannot be extended. You must register and take your exam prior to the expiration date of your voucher. Neither Prometric, Authorized Prometric Testing Centers, nor Sun Microsystems are responsible for vouchers that are not redeemed by the expiration date.

For the Sun Certified Developer (SCJD) Assignment (CX-310-252A) and the Sun Certified Enterprise Architect (SCEA) Assignment (CX-310-300A), there is no time limit for completion or upload of the assignment to the Certification Database.

How do I schedule my exam?
After you have purchased your exam, contact your Authorized Prometric Testing Center to schedule your exam date, time, and location. All exams take place at Authorized Prometric Testing Centers.

For the Sun Certified Developer (SCJD) Assignment (CX-310-252A) and the Sun Certified Enterprise Architect (SCEA) Assignment (CX-310-300A), you will receive detailed instructions after purchase on how to download/upload the assignment through the Certification Database.

Am I ready to take my exam?
At the time of your exam, you must agree to maintain test confidentiality and sign a Certification Candidate Pre-Test Agreement. Please review this document and other certification policies and agreements before taking your exam.

Recommended Training and Job Experience
Is training required?
Is job experience required?

The goal of Sun certification is to test on a particular job role. Thus, to prepare for a certification exam we recommend Sun training and six to twelve months of actual job role experience. Sun does not claim that by taking courses you are guaranteed to pass the certification exams, however we do state that Sun training is an important component in certification preparation.

Course Delivery Options
Are there self-paced alternatives to classroom training?

Sun recognizes that the "one-size fits all" approach to IT training does not meet the needs of today's IT professionals. Tightening training budgets, grueling work schedules and mission critical operations make it very difficult to get the training you need, when you need it. At Sun, we offer training in Web-based and CD-ROM delivery options to give you flexibility and control over how and when you learn.

Additional Study
Is more in-depth study available?
What does Additional Study mean?

In addition to recommended training, for select certifications we suggest additional courses that will help you to excel at the certification role at hand.

Sample Test Questions
What are Sample Test Questions?
Can I practice prior to taking the exam?

Web-based sample test questions, or ePractice Exams, help you practice before taking the real exam. ePractice Exams include sample test questions, correct answers with explanations and suggestions for further study.

Upgrade Exams
What is an Upgrade Exam?
How do I upgrade from a previous version of a certification?

Where Upgrade Exams are available, if you hold a previous version of the certification, you can upgrade to the newer certification at a reduced fee. For Sun Certified System Administrator (SCSA), which is comprised of a Part 1 and Part II exam, the Upgrade Exam only requires successful completion of one exam.

When will I receive my certificate?
If your package has not yet arrived, it could be for one of the following reasons:

• It might not have been mailed. Go to CertManager, select Show Fulfillment History, then Test History to check on the mailing status. Certificates are mailed one week after the exam is completed.
• You have not completed all of the requirements for the certification exam track. Go to CertManager and select Cert Progress to view remaining requirements.
• You have not waited 30 days since taking your certification exam.
• Your address is incorrect in our database and might have been returned or will be returned to us soon. Go to CertManager and select Personal Info to update your address and request another certificate.

What if I need my certificate from a Sun course?
In order for you to request another Sun course certificate or check on the status of your certificate, please contact your local Sun office.

How can I correct or change my name if it has been misspelled in the database and on my certificate?
While you can change your address, phone number, email address in the CertManager database, you cannot change your name. Please send the following information to suncert@prometric.com. Please provide the following information:

• How your name currently appears
• How your name should appear
• Your Prometric Student ID number

What will the successful candidate receive in their certification kit?
All certification kits include the following:

• A Sun certified certificate with the candidate's name and certification title.
• An ID card with the candidate's name and certification title.
• A Logo Agreement form for successful Java technology certification candidates.
• A lapel pin.

How do I log in to Sun Certification I7 for the first time?
Follow these steps to create a password and to login to the Sun Certification I7 database for the first time. Required information is found on the score report you received from Prometric.

1.Go to Sun Certification I7
2.Enter your Prometric Student ID number
3.Select Additional Information
4.Enter your name
5.Enter your Prometric Student ID number
6.Enter your registration number
7.Enter test date (Month/Day/Year)
8.Enter the site number where you took your exam

Can I download and upload my assignment in the Sun Certification I7 database?
No. You must login to the Assignment Watcher database to download and upload your assignments. Only your assignment score will appear in the Sun Certification I7 database.

How long does it take before my exam record(s) appear in the Sun Certification I7 database?
After taking your exam, it can take up to four business days for your records to appear in the Sun Certification I7 database. In regards to the Sun Certified Developer for Java 2 Platform and Sun Certified Architect for J2EE Technology essay exams, it takes four to six weeks after submission for your score to appear in the database.

Does Sun offer a Sun Certified Professional logo?
Yes, once certified, candidates may request the use of the logo that fits their certification.

How do I receive the logo after I have completed a Certification exam?
For candidates residing in the following 39 countries you can request the logo online. Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China (PRC), Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, India, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan. Luxembourg, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, United Kingdom, USA, Venezuela.

Candidates residing outside of these 39 countries are required to submit the logo agreement form that is shipped with your certificate. Please sign the agreement and mail it back to the address supplied. Depending from which country you mail the agreement, it may take up to month for you to receive the logo.

Online request for Java logos:

• Sun Certified Java Associate (SCJA)
• Sun Certified Java Programmer (SCJP)
• Sun Certified Java Developer (SCJD)
• Sun Certified Web Component Developer (SCWCD)
• Sun Certified Business Component Developer (SCBCD)
• Sun Certified Developer for Java Web Services (SCDJWS)
• Sun Certified Enterprise Architect (SCEA)
• Sun Certified Mobile Application Developer (SCMAD)

Online request for Solaris logos:

• Sun Certified System Administrator (SCSA)
• Sun Certified Network Administrator (SCNA)
• Sun Certified Security Administrator (SCSECA)

Where can I get sample questions, objectives and the Web-based practice for Solaris Operating System exams?
Go to the Solaris Operating System certification page. Select either the Sun Certified System Administrator for the Solaris Operating System or a Sun Certified Network Administrator for the Solaris Operating System certification path and choose the appropriate study aid.

Can I skip Part I of the Sun Certified System Administrator for the Solaris Operating System certification process and go directly to Part II?
No. The system administrator certification exams, regardless of the Solaris Operating System version, is a two-part exam. You must complete Part I before proceeding to Part II. You will not receive a certificate until you have successfully passed both parts.

Do I have to take Sun Certified System Administrator for the Solaris Operating System Part I and II in order to submit the Sun Certified Network Administrator for the Solaris Operating System exam?
Yes. Sun Certified System Administrator for the Solaris Operating System certification is a mandatory prerequisite for the Sun Certified Network Administrator for the Solaris Operating System exam. If you have taken the Sun Certified Network Administrator for the Solaris Operating System exam, you will not receive your certificate until you have completed the Sun Certified System Administrator for the Solaris Operating System certification.

What are the differences between Sun Certified Programmer for Java Platform 5 (CX-310-055) and 6 (CX-310-065) exams?

• Questions concerning System.gc() have been removed.
• Coverage of the java.io.Console class has been added.
• Coverage of navigable collections has been added.
• Several of the previous objectives have been strengthened (so you can expect more questions and more detailed questions on them). These strengthened objectives include: exception handling, collection classes and collection interfaces, assertions, threads, and flow control.

Where can I find the test objectives?
Test objectives can be found on the Sun certification Web site.

What has been REMOVED for the updated exam?
The following topic has been removed from the exam: The use of System.gc().

What has been ADDED to the exam?

• The following topics have been added to the exam: the java.io.Console class, navigable collections.
• The following topics have been strengthened (expect more detailed questions): exception handling, collection classes and collection interfaces, assertions, threads, flow control.

I am a Sun certified Java programmer, on a prior version, does this updated certification impact my status?
No, previously certified Programmers are still certified. We always recommend, however, that professionals maintain currency in the technology. The upgrade exam (CX-310-066) is for programmers to update their status from SCJP 1.x to SCJP 6.

What is a Borderline Survey?
There is a survey at the beginning of the exam called a Borderline. This survey allows us to collect information on the candidate's experience as a programmer. That information is used to determine how exams are performing. In short, it allows us to create and maintain the highest standard in our examinations. Giving honest answers to this survey is essential.

Are Web-based practice exams available for the exam?
These ePractice exams will be available in December 2007:

• ePractice Certification Exam for the Sun Certified Programmer for the Java Platform, Standard Edition 6 (WGS-PREX-J065C)
• ePractice Sample Questions for the Sun Certified Programmer for the Java Platform, Standard Edition 6 (free) (WGS-PREX-J065-10)

Will certification packages be available to help me prepare for certification?
Blended learning and eLearning packages will be created to help customers prepare for the certification exam. These packages will include training, the online practice exam and a voucher to take the certification exam. These packages will be available in Q3 FY08.

Is there documentation, specifications or white papers that would help me prepare for the exam?
A number of resources are available on the java.sun.com website:

• JDK 6 Documentation
• Java Platform Standard Edition 6 API Specification
• Java SE 6 Key Features

Are there books cover Java SE 6 topics?

• Java 6 Platform Revealed by John Zukowski (ISBN: 1-59-059660-9)
• Murach's Java SE 6: Training & Reference by Joel Murach (ISBN: 1-89-077442-1)

How long does it take to receive a grade for my performance based exam?
Once you have uploaded your assignment to the CertManager, you should schedule to take the required essay exam at an authorized Prometric testing center. After you have taken the essay exam, both your assignment and essay exams are matched up, and sent to an assessor for grading. Your exam results will show up in the CertManager database approximately four weeks after taking the essay. You will only receive one grade after completing both parts of a performance based exam.

The database shows comments from the Assessor that I need to resubmit my assignment - what does this mean?
Sometimes there is a technical malfunction in the system which causes an error to occur when opening your assignment, or it is possible you may have used or created your assignment file in such a way that it does not open. If this happens, the assessor will ask you to resubmit and will briefly mention why in the comment field on the CertManager database.

I'm working on the assignment and want to ask some questions.
There are ambiguities to the exam in order to allow you latitude in how you solve the problem. You are being tested not only on your knowledge of Java technology, but also on your problem solving ability. If you are uncertain of how to do something, document your thought process heavily in that section. The main idea is to ensure the project works and to document the choices you have made.

What do I do if I fail the assignment?
If you have failed and wish to resubmit for another attempt, you will need to contact your local Sun office to purchase a resubmission voucher for your exam. You will only need to resubmit your assignment. We do not require you to retake your essay exam.

The exam results provided by the assessor are final and non-negotiable.

If I fail an exam - how quickly can I retake it?
Sun has implemented a two week testing policy for all Sun Certification Exams delivered at Prometric. This means that if you have taken an exam, failed it and need to retake the same exam again that you will be required to wait two weeks before taking the exam again. There are several reasons why this policy has been implemented:

• Within the Certification industry it is common for certification programs to impose a waiting period - sometime up to a month wait - Sun is only requiring two weeks to minimize your inconvenience.
• The wait assists with test security. Increased security means that the credential is even more valuable once earned.
• To provide a consistent basis for measuring skills and abilities. It has been proven that people who retake exams earlier than two weeks acquire an unfair advantage based upon short term memory. Again this helps to keep your credentials valuable.
• We want customers to succeed, so the wait allows additional time for customers to study in order to pass the next time. Sun encourages individuals to plan their testing schedules wisely to maximize your time effectively.

Sun's Certification Retake Rules:

1. There is a 2-week minimum wait period before retaking a failed exam.
2. You can retake the same exam a maximum of three (3) times in one calendar year.
3. After the third failed attempt within one calendar year, you must obtain written permission from Sun prior to attempting a fourth time by sending an email request to certification@sun.com.
4. An exam can not be retaken once it has been passed.

Does this exam certify me as a Certified Sun Cluster Installer?
While we do present questions on installation, the goal of Sun certification is to test on a particular job role. This exam certifies learners as a system administrator managing cluster environments. This exam does not waive Sun's requirement for Sun to validate any cluster installation by a Certified Sun Cluster Installer before offering Sun Support services.

Information on additional Sun Cluster programs and services can be viewed at the following links.

Enterprise Installation Services: http://www.sun.com/service/install/suncluster-software.xml

• Sun Cluster Software Installation Service
• Sun Cluster Software Installation Validation Service

Solaris Cluster Install Certification Program: http://www.sun.com/software/cluster/reseller/index.xml

How many questions will the exam have?
The new Sun Certified System Administrator for Sun Cluster 3.2 exam will have 62 questions.

How much time will be allowed when taking the new Sun Certified System Administrator for Sun Cluster 3.2 exam? The time limit is 105 minutes.

When will the new Sun Cluster System Administrator exam be available? This exam will be available in June 2007.

What do I do if I am having trouble downloading my exam assignment?
If you cannot download an assignment you might have not yet purchased the exam. Please contact your local Sun office to purchase the exam.

If you have already purchased the exam, please contact us by e-mail to provide your order confirmation number. We will then give you a new permission to upload the assignment.

What do I do if I'm having trouble uploading my exam assignment?
If you are having trouble uploading your assignment, send an e-mail message to suncert@prometric.com with your order confirmation number you received at the time you purchased the exam. Upon receipt, we will send you new permission to upload your assignment.

How do I login to the Assignment Watcher database?
Follow these steps to create a password and to login to the Assignment Watcher database for the first time. Required information is found on the score report you received from Prometric.

1. Go to Assignment Watcher (www.certmanager.net/sun/)
2. Enter your Prometric Student ID number
3. Select Additional Information
4. Enter your name
5. Enter your Prometric Student ID number
6. Enter your registration number
7. Enter test date (Month/Day/Year)
8. Enter the site number where you took your exam

Once you are logged in, you need to select "Test History". You will then need to select "Assignments". Once you are in the "Assignments" page, you may download or upload your assignment.

Where can I check my assignment score and comments?
Your assignment and essay exam score along with comments will be available in Assignment Watcher database.

Your score comments will not be available in the Sun Certification I7 datagbase.

How long does it take for my score to appear after I have completed both my assignment and essay exam?
Please allow four weeks after you have submitted your essay exam for your score to appear in the Assignment Watcher database. Your score will also appear in the Sun Certification I7 database at the same time.

If a Sun certified professional has already received a certificate and ID card with the printed expiration date, can that professional request another certificate and ID card without an expiration date?
Yes. The certified professional will need to send an email to the who2contact@sun.com alias to request a new certificate and ID card. Include your name and Prometric Candidate ID number.

What alternatives do I have for maintaining my Sun certification at the most current technology version?
Two possible alternatives exist. For some certification titles there may be an upgrade exam available. When no upgrade exam exists, the candidate's only option is to retake the updated certification exam.

Sun maintains multiple versions of any certification exam or Sun certified title to meet varying global demand for title versions and to offer IT professionals flexible certification options. Sun reserves the right to retire specific Sun certification exams or titles for any reason and at any time. Sun's recertification policy and program are subject to change without notice.

Are upgrades exam available for all exams?
No. Upgrade exams are available for only the following certification titles:

• Sun Certified Programmer for Java 2 Platform
• Sun Certified System Administrator for the Solaris Operating System

Can I retake an upgrade exam if I don't pass?
Yes, this is consistent with Sun's retake policy. Sun recommends you study subject areas where your exam score indicates you need additional experience, and more importantly, to gain hands-on experience in these areas in your job. Sun's industry certifications are designed to award certifications to professionals who can actually apply the skills and knowledge associated with particular job roles.

How much do upgrade exams cost?
Sun is presently offering upgrade exams at a lower cost than the original exam fee. Upgrade exams offer a significant savings compared to the original exam. Sun reserves the right to modify this fee at any time for any reason, and may offer discounted fees at its discretion. Where one upgrade exam takes the place of a multiple-step certification process, the savings are potentially significant. Upgrade exams do not exist for every title at this time.

When is the certification date exactly? Is it the date when the candidate took the exam, the date when the certificate is issued by Sun, or another date?
The date that appears on the certificate reflects the date the certificate is published. This publishing date is typically within two weeks after a candidate passes the certification.