SCJP 1.4 concerns...

Hi everyone. I am considering taking the 1.4 exam but had a couple of concerns. Hoping you all could provide input and suggestions.

I have worked with java for a couple years now but never formalized my knowledge via certifications. I harbor no illusions that I posses any great degree of knowledge and I have taken a couple of classes in an effort to broaden my understanding and hopefully fill in some of the gaps I had prior to taking the exam.

But, as I understand it, the 1.4 exam is at end of life here very shortly (Nov 28th??). Why am I focusing on 1.4 instead of 1.5? Mostly because my instructor advised us to do so and because I am a little afraid of generics.

Anyhow, I called Prometric to schedule the exam but in doing so, they couldn't confirm the exam expiring on the Nov 28th and could say what would happen if I somehow didn't pass and needed to retake. Very frustrating that they didn't know anything about the exam they administer.

Can you all advise me on the soundness of taking 1.4 versus 1.5 SCJP and what will happen come Nov 28th if the exam is retired and I find myself in need of doing a retake?

Thanks so much in advance.

"Twinkleberry Sunshine", please check your private messages for an important administrative matter.

Sorry Bear, didn't mean to break the rules...My real name gave errors as did my second choice. I have corrected my display name now.

Thanks
[ October 27, 2008: Message edited by: Mike Smith (356) ]

Hi Mike! Welcome to javaranch.

Well you are not alone here. I was also afraid of generics in the beginning. I was also planning to give 1.4 just because of generics. But then everyone told me that it would be a waste if I went for 1.4 just because of generics. If you get over it, then you can give 6.0. That would be a great booster. Here's a generics tutorial from sun. Just go through it. I am damn sure that it will clear most of your doubts... Don't go for 1.4. Go for 6.0...