Some predictions for SQL Server 2016 certification here:

http://www.gocertify.com/articles/could-microsoft-s-sql-server-2016-be-your-ticket-to-the-big-time

According to the exam "Skills measured" section, this means:

Combine datasets

•Difference between UNION and UNION all; case versus isnull versus coalesce; modify data by using MERGE statements

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/learning/exam-70-461.aspx

I've...

The change to the MCSA to add electives in place of the 70-463 exam was made in September 2014 and a search of this forum will get you to the...

First, it is not possible to earn the MCSA on SQL Server 2008 because that credential was not offered until SQL Server 2012. It is only possible to earn...

mili.nikolic (6/18/2015)

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But what if I get my MCSA certificate and pass first from MCSE for SQL Server 2012. If they upgrade MCSE to 2016, my passed exam is wasted...

First, let me state that my comments are only my opinion and I have no inside knowledge or contact with the Microsoft certification team regarding their plans for SQL Server...

Mainstream support for SQL Server 2012 ends in July 2017 and Extended support ends in July...

You have years to pass all three exams (461, 462, 463) to earn the MCSA. The only time limit will be when Microsoft stops offering the exam. You...

Let me suggest two alternatives to boot camps:

PASS Summit 2015

SQL Cruise[/url]

Neither of these will directly prepare you for certification, but they will give you a much broader learning opportunity. ...

Honestly, I do not recommend the COMPTIA A+ certification for you. The best way to maximize your earning potential is to take remedial English classes until you can take...

http://www.sqlservercentral.com/Forums/Topic1377933-10-3.aspx#bm1655070

There are three virtual labs that you can use to practice without setting up your home lab:

Exploring AlwaysOn Availability Groups in SQL Server 2014

https://vlabs.holsystems.com/vlabs/technet?eng=VLabs&auth=none&src=vlabs&altadd=true&labid=12694

Exploring AlwaysOn Failover Cluster Instances in SQL...

Transcender now has a product to help you prepare for the 70-462 exam:

70-462 - MSCert: Administering Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Databases

This book is being reprinted in January 2013 due to the chapters and page numbers being out-of-order, but you can buy the e-book today for $55.99

http://shop.oreilly.com/product/0790145345059.do

I speculate that the delay is due to all the errors found in the 70-462 book that was released in July. There are so many errors in this book...