PL-300 exam format: questions, scoring and what to expect

Published 19 September 2026

Knowing the shape of the exam removes a lot of avoidable stress on the day. Here is what the format looks like and how scoring actually works.

How many questions

The exam generally contains between 40 and 60 questions, and the count varies between sittings. Question types include multiple choice, drag-and-drop, case studies and scenario-based items, so practising only multiple choice leaves you unprepared for a chunk of the exam.

How scoring works

Microsoft technical exams are scored on a scale from 1 to 1,000, and 700 or above is a pass. The score is scaled, which means the number of questions you answered correctly does not translate directly into a percentage.

Two practical consequences. First, 700 does not mean "70% of questions correct", so don't try to calculate your result during the exam. Second, some questions are unscored items used to improve future exams, and they are not identified while you sit it, so treat every question as if it counts.

There is no penalty for guessing. Never leave an answer blank.

Case studies

These give you a business scenario with several linked questions. They take longer than they look. Read the scenario once fully before answering anything, and remember that details in the scenario, not general Power BI knowledge, usually decide the correct answer.

Managing your time

• Answer the questions you know quickly, and mark the rest for review
• Leave case studies enough time; don't hit them with five minutes left
• If a question is taking more than two minutes, mark it and move on
• Return to marked questions with whatever time remains

After the exam

You see your result shortly after finishing, along with a score report showing how you performed across the skill areas. If you don't pass, that report is the most useful study guide you'll get, because it shows exactly which area let you down.

The credential renews each year through a free renewal assessment on Microsoft Learn, so passing once doesn't mean you're finished with it forever.

Where to check the current details

Exam details change. Microsoft's official certification page for PL-300 lists the current skills measured, question types, exam duration and fee for your country, and is the only source worth trusting for those specifics. The skills measured were last updated on 20 April 2026.