Julie Thornton wrote:
> 
>  LPI is releasing the beta version of the Level 2 sysadmin exams 
> September 4, and we'll only have 5 1/2 weeks to get thru the beta.  
> That means we need to make every effort to incent qualified persons 
> to take the tests.  Here's what we've done for the beta period 
> only:
>  - the two Level 2 exams have been consolidated into one longer 
>    exam.
>  - VUE testing centers will be offering the beta exam for only $84
>  - we're offering to have an LPI staff person proctor an on-site 
>    exam for groups with 20+ qualified candidates
> 
>  A qualified Level 2 beta test candidate is one who:
>  - Is a professional Linux Systems Administrator
>  - Has about 3-4 years of UNIX/Linux sysadmin experience
>  - Has successfully passed both of the LPIC-1 tests (optional to 
>    take the test, but mandatory to recieve certification as LPIC-2)
> 
>  So, if the combined KULUA/KCLUG groups are interested in having 
> an LPI Staff person administer a proctored exam in September, the 
> cost per person would be only $15 for pre-registered persons or $30 
> for walk-ins.  We'll use the Lawrence Public Library to administer 
> the test, and there will need to be one volunteer to assist.  Send 
> me an email directly if you want to pre-register, and I'll follow 
> up with interested persons directly.
> 
> You dont' have to be LPIC-1 before *taking* the Level 2 tests, so 
> if you pass the Level 2 tests, we essentially hold your 
> certification until you pass Level 1.  For you to get the maximum 
> value from the Level 2 tests, I'd suggest that you start studying 
> now for Level 2 and then you can go back and take Level 1 later.  
> Test objectives are at http://www.lpi.org/p-L2-obj-pre.html
> 
> Also, we're *considering* offerring Level 1 tests to folks who come 
> to the Level 2 testing sites for the same price ($15 as opposed to 
> $200)... but that's not set in stone yet, so please dont consider it 
> an offer.  For masochists interested in studying to take both exams, 
> Level 1 objectives are at http://www.lpi.org/p-index.html
> 
> There are no ordained study guides offerred by LPI, as we're a non 
> profit organization created in order to serve a need for building 
> Linux use in business and assist in the career growth of those who 
> use Linux professionally (rather than a for-profit company 
> interested in selling stuff).  There are dozens of books and other 
> test preparation products and we've tried to list them all at 
> http://www.lpi.org/c-preparation.html
> 
> So, if you are interested in the proctored idea, please email me 
> directly [jewels@sunflower.com ed.] and I'll keep you updated as 
> we near our magic 20 qualified persons and set a date for the exam.  
> If you'd prefer to take the test at VUE, there are several testing 
> centers in the KC area and they will be starting to offer the beta 
> exam by September 4.
> 
> All the best -
> Julie Thornton