My Experience Taking the VCP Exam
by VCP Help on 11/04/09 at 6:34 pm
This process may vary slightly from testing center to testing center, but here’s an overview of the process I went through to take my VCP exam and it’s probably similar to what you’ll go through to take the test.
First, I had to schedule an appointment with your local Pearson Vue test center. I did this via their website and there’s not really much to say about that.
When I arrived, I had to sign-in and provide identification. At my testing center, they wanted two forms of ID, but the confirmation e-mail from Pearson Vue will confirm the requirements for your test, so be sure to read it closely. Bring multiple IDs regardless.
Next, I had to place everything in my pockets such as car keys and wallet into a backpack. The attendant placed a padlock on the backpack so that I could not get into the bag. She kept the key at the front desk while the backpack traveled with me so I could know that nobody was stealing my wallet.
I was lead into a small room with four or five computers each divided by a wall. Think of the study carols you used to have in school. The attendant started the particular testing program on the computer and told me to sit down and follow the on screen prompts. There were TV cameras watching the room to ensure that you don’t talk with other people or try to pull a cheat sheet out of your pocket.
On the computer system, I entered my name/etc. and the test began. Using the mouse, each question is answered one at a time. As you proceed, you have no indication of how well you’re doing. You may go back to previous questions and at the end of the test before you submit it, you have another chance to re-visit any questions. I think the time limit was 90 minutes and I took my time, being extra careful, and finished in about 60 minutes.
Once done, I took the backpack up to the front counter where the attendant was waiting with my print-out showing my score and certification number on a temporary form. I grabbed my keys and wallet and left. The print-out is your temporary proof that you passed or failed and it has a confirmation number and some other information on it.
A couple weeks later, I received the official certificate of completion from VMware in the mail along with a free serial number for a copy of VMware Workstation. The certificate is the usual “congratulations you’ve completed such and such” type, but I am proud of it. Even with my day-to-day use of VMware and relatively deep knowledge, I only passed with a 77 out of a required 70, so I’m very glad I prepared for the VCP exam in advance or I’d probably have failed.
