Question

Do we need to have PL-900 certification before giving PL-300 exam ?

I'm preparing for the PL-300 certification exam and was wondering if taking the PL-900 certification beforehand is required or beneficial. I understand that PL-900 covers Power Platform fundamentals, while PL-300 is more advanced, focusing specifically on data analysis and Power BI skills. I’d like to know if obtaining the PL-900 first provides a solid foundation or any specific advantages for PL-300, or if I can directly approach the PL-300 exam without it. Any insights on prerequisites or recommended certification paths would be greatly appreciated

Answer 1

No, obtaining a PL-900 certification is not a requirement for PL-300 certification. Microsoft PL-900, also known as Microsoft Power Platform Fundamentals, introduces students to the fundamental concepts of the following Power Platform components at a very high level: Power Apps, Power Automate, and Power BI. On the other hand, PL-300 is more about advancing your skills in Power BI with an emphasis on data, including data analysis, transformation, modeling, visualization, and other related aspects.

The PL-900 is helpful for users who do not use the Power Platform frequently and those who would like to understand what the Power Platform is, but this is not necessary if the PL-300 is taken for the sole purpose of mastering Power BI. Suppose you are already experienced with data modeling and have some experience using Power BI. In that case, you may go straight into the PL-300 without embarking on the PL-900 first, as it is not a prerequisite.

For more information, you can check out the Study guide for Exam PL-300: Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst

Answer 2

In fact, you can only get the PL-900 certification after proceeding with the exam for PL-300. Much of the PL-900 course involves Power Platform fundamentals, whereas PL-300 is based on skills related to data analysis and Power BI. Therefore, while the former may serve as a foundation or stepping stone for anyone just getting started, it is not compulsory. If you consider your knowledge of data analysis and Power BI fairly solid, you can go for the PL-300 exam. However, if you are a newbie in the Power Platform, you could take PL-900 first in order to get some grounding and have the material flow more easily for you.