How much does IT cost to get CCNA certified?

When you're thinking about stepping into the world of networking, getting CCNA certified could be a major advantage. But before you jump in, it's important to know what you’re getting into financially. The costs associated with CCNA certification can differ and often include various fees and additional expenses. Let’s take a look at what you need to understand about the financial commitment involved in this certification.

What is the CCNA

First, let’s talk about what CCNA stands for. CCNA, or Cisco Certified Network Associate, is a widely recognized certification that confirms your skills and knowledge in networking. It covers a range of topics, including basic networking concepts, IP addressing, security fundamentals, and more. Getting this certification is often a stepping stone for aspiring network professionals who want to highlight their expertise to potential employers. Given the competitiveness of the tech job market, having a CCNA certification can make you stand out among various applicants.

Exam Fees and Registration Costs

The CCNA exam costs around $300 per attempt

The most immediate cost many candidates will encounter is the exam fee itself. As of now, the CCNA exam costs around $300 per attempt. This fee is the primary cost associated with taking the exam. Exam Vouchers can be purchased from several places, such as the PearsonVUE store.

Many candidates may find it necessary to retake the exam if they don’t pass on their first attempt. This means those exam fees can quickly accumulate. It’s wise to budget for this possibility, as well as the costs related to preparation materials and training courses, which can fluctuate significantly in price.

Additional Costs in Getting Prepared

Another important financial aspect to keep in mind is the preparation involved. Some candidates may opt for classroom training, while others may choose online courses or self-study methods. Depending on your choice, the training costs can add up. For instance, enrolling in an in-person boot camp might set you back anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the strength of the program and how extensive it is. Online training options can also have varying costs, ranging from free courses to those that charge hundreds of dollars.

If you prefer self-studying, you’ll likely need to invest in books and practice exams. Many students find study guides especially helpful when preparing for the CCNA exam. The costs for these resources can range from $50 to $200 for books, while practice tests and online quizzes may run you an extra $60 to $250, depending on the vendor and number of exams you’d like to take. It's beneficial to set aside a budget here because having high-quality resources can make a substantial difference in your preparation.

Budget Options

Preparing for the CCNA on a budget is entirely possible with the right resources. Start with free options like YouTube, where many certified professionals share detailed tutorials and walkthroughs of CCNA topics. Supplement these with free or low-cost practice exams from reputable sites to test your knowledge. Utilize Cisco’s official documentation and free online tools, such as Packet Tracer, for hands-on practice in configuring networks. You can also join online forums and study groups, like those on Reddit or Discord, to exchange tips and study notes. If you have the time and discipline to self-study, these affordable resources can save you money while still thoroughly preparing for the exam.