Q: I’m just getting started using computers, where do I begin?
A: Click here for Basic Computer Skills online courses Q: Do the Elevate America vouchers expire?
A: Yes, Microsoft Elevate America vouchers expired on October 31, 2009.
Vouchers not used by that date cannot be used to enroll in free online courses or take certification exams.
Q: I’m a returning user, where do I go to continue my learning?
A: Click here for instructions and a link to return to courses you already entered or started.
Q: How long will I be able to use my E-Learning courses?
A: Once you activate your e-learning, you will have 12 months of access to the courses
Q: I have been trying to get create a Microsoft account and sign in but I keep getting an error message. What do I do?
A: After two attempts from any IP address to setup a Windows Live ID account, Microsoft blocks setup of any additional IDS for 24 hours. To get around this, Illinois workNet provides the Microsoft Windows Online Course Member Name page. On this page you will create a member name ( ___________ @ea.illinoisworknet.com) and a password. You will use your member name and password to log into your Microsoft online courses. We recommend using the
course login instructions exactly how we describe them.
Q: Is my Microsoft Windows Live ID member name an actual email address?
A: No, your Windows Live ID member name is for logging into you Microsoft course only, it is NOT an actual email address.
(sample Windows Live ID member name: computergenius@ea.illinoisworknet.com). Be sure to type in your real email address when creating your "My Illinois workNet" account.
Q: Do I need to own Microsoft Office 2007 software to use take the Microsoft Office 2007 online courses?
A: No. Course participants do not need to purchase Office 2007 to take the Office 2007 courses. The courses do include hands on activities (labs) that use the Microsoft Office software. The activities are not required but they do reinforce learning the information. If you would like to complete the hands on activities, the software is available to download for a 60-day trial.
Click here to download a free 60-day trial of the software to use with the vouchers 
. The other option is to use the
Find a Location Near You search to find a location that offers public access computers.
Q: I’m an IT Professional or Developer, what resources are available for me? A: Click here for more information and instructions on Technical Professional Online Courses
Q: Where can I take Microsoft Certification Exams?A: Identify and c
all testing centers to make an appointment to take exams. Follow this link to find Microsoft/Certiport Testing Centers. 
The cost to take a Microsoft Certification Exam ranges between $60.00/per exam and $100/per exam.
Q: Are the Microsoft Business Worker Certification Exams timed? A: Yes, you have 45 minutes to complete each Microsoft Business Worker Certification Exam.
Q: If I pass my Microsoft Certification Exam, when will I receive my certificate?
A: You will receive your Microsoft Certificate in the mail within 2 - 3 weeks from the date you pass the exam. The certificate will be mailed to the address designated as your primary residence.
Q: If I need to re-take a Microsoft Certification Exam , how soon can I take it again and what is the time limit?
A: There is a 24 hour wait period for a re-take, and re-takes must be completed within 30 days. If you need to re-take the exam, Microsoft will email your second (retake) attempt access code number to your email account (not Illinois workNet account). The cost for taking a Microsoft Certification Exam is the individual's responsibility.
Q: Why should you complete Microsoft Certification Exams?
A: Unlike resumes, certification offers concrete evidence that you have a specific set of skills. A certification exam is based on standards that were established by a professional group.
Q: Why is Microsoft Business Worker Certification important to employers?
A: Computers have become more and more essential to the workplace. Certifying Office skills that employers require ensures them you can effectively use computer software tools essential for success.
Q: What do I do if I get stuck?
A: If you find you need customer support, please contact the Microsoft Regional Support Center by phone at (800) 636-7544, or email e-learn@microsoft.com. More support information is available at the following website http://www.microsoft.com/learning/support/northamerica.mspx .
If you find you need customer support, please contact the Microsoft Regional Support Center by phone at (800) 636-7544, or email . More support information is available at the following website .
Click here to return to the Computer Skills home page.