Clarification Needed: CSA Exam Release Version Transition (Zurich to Australia)

[23481A12K4]

Hi Everyone,

I completed my RiseUp training this past April and am preparing to take my Certified System Administrator (CSA) exam. I did all of my preparation and hands-on practice based on the Zurich version.

I am planning to schedule my exam soon, but I’ve been hearing mixed information from peers regarding the release version transition window. Some mentioned that if I take the exam before the end of June, it will still test on the Zurich release, but if I attempt it in July, the platform version changes to Australia and I will need to re-prepare.

Could anyone clarify the exact dates for the mainline exam blackout/maintenance window and when the CSA exam officially cuts over to the Australia release?

I want to make sure I don't accidentally book my exam right during a version transition or end up facing questions on a release I haven't studied yet.

Thank you in advance for your guidance!

[Tanushree Maiti]

Hi @23481A12K4 

Australia release is available since Q2 (approximately May 2026) .

Therefore, if you schedule and take the Certified System Administrator (CSA) mainline exam in July 2026 or later, it is highly likely to be based on the Australia release, following the standard practice of upgrading certification exams shortly after the new family release goes GA (General Availability). 

There is no officially declared date confirming when the Australia-based CSA exam will go live. 

That said, if you already feel well prepared for the exam, it would be advisable to go ahead and take it.

Delaying the exam solely to avoid the Delta exam may not be necessary, as the Delta is generally considered easy and manageable.

Good Luck!