How to Become a Microsoft Learn Student Ambassador (MLSA)

Akash SatputeAkash Satpute
4 min read

What is the Microsoft Learn Student Ambassadors Program?

The Microsoft Learn Student Ambassadors program connects students worldwide who have a passion for technology and a drive to help their communities. Ambassadors can interact with their peers, mentors, and professionals while gaining hands-on experience with various Microsoft tools and technologies.

Although MLSA participants aren’t Microsoft employees, they benefit from networking, skill development, and significant recognition within the tech community. Ambassadors also serve as representatives of Microsoft technologies on their campuses, helping spread the word about educational resources like Microsoft Learn.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply and what to expect from the program.

Eligibility for the MLSA Program

Before applying, make sure you meet the following criteria:

  • You must be at least 16 years old at the time of application.

  • You must be a full-time student enrolled in an accredited academic institution (college or university).

  • You cannot be a current Microsoft employee or contractor.

  • You must be an individual and not a corporate entity.

Responsibilities of a Microsoft Learn Student Ambassador

As an MLSA, your role involves:

  • Encouraging peers to use Microsoft Learn, the educational platform offering free courses and tutorials on various Microsoft technologies.

  • Promoting Microsoft tools for education and innovation across your campus by engaging with faculty and students.

  • Completing milestone-driven activities that help you progress through different stages of the program. These milestones include “new to alpha,” “alpha to beta,” and “beta to gold.”

Benefits of Becoming an MLSA

The MLSA program offers several benefits as you progress through its milestones:

  1. New Ambassadors:

    • Free Microsoft 365 subscription, which includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more.
  2. Alpha Ambassadors:

    • Access to Visual Studio Enterprise and $150 in monthly Azure credits.

    • Free access to LinkedIn Learning.

  3. Beta Ambassadors:

    • A Beta swag kit.

  4. Gold Ambassadors:

    • A Gold swag box, additional leadership opportunities, and eligibility for MVP mentorship and nomination.

    • Upon graduation, you can be nominated for the Windows Insider Most Valuable Professional (MVP) program.

How to Apply to Become an MLSA

Ready to apply? Here’s the detailed process:

Step 1: Create an Account

  • Go to the Microsoft MVP site and create an account (note that you’ll get a new Microsoft account if selected).

Step 2: Start Your Application

Step 3: Accept Privacy and Terms

  • Agree to the privacy terms before proceeding.

Step 4: Add Personal and Academic Details

  • Enter your personal information and academic institution. Select your preferred programming language (you don't need to be an expert; it's simply to gauge your interests).
  • Add links to your professional profiles (LinkedIn, Twitter, GitHub). If you don’t have a GitHub, that’s okay—just ensure your LinkedIn is up-to-date.

Step 6: Answer Key Questions

The most important part of the application involves answering three questions that will showcase your experience and passion:

  1. Welcome: Tell us about a time you welcomed someone into your community.

  2. Guide: Share a technical skill you’ve learned and how you were guided in learning it.

  3. Connect: Describe an event you organized that connected diverse audiences.

  • Answer two of these questions in writing and one in a video format. Be genuine and share specific examples of your achievements.

Step 7: Technology Interests and Microsoft Learn Profile

  • Indicate which technologies interest you. Don’t worry if you don’t have a Microsoft Learn profile yet—it’s not mandatory.

Step 8: Review and Submit

  • Double-check your responses and submit the form.

In conclusion, the Microsoft Learn Student Ambassadors (MLSA) program is a fantastic opportunity for students to enhance their technical skills, build a global network, and contribute to their communities. I encourage everyone passionate about technology to apply and make the most of this amazing platform.

If you have any doubts or questions about the MLSA program or the application process, feel free to contact me. I'm always happy to help!

Follow And Connect For More : https://www.linkedin.com/in/akash-satpute-548b5a256/

10
Subscribe to my newsletter

Read articles from Akash Satpute directly inside your inbox. Subscribe to the newsletter, and don't miss out.

Written by

Akash Satpute
Akash Satpute