IT Certification Cost: How Much Do You Really Pay?

Thinking about getting an IT certification but worried about the price? You’re not alone. Many learners wonder whether the expense is worth it and how to avoid surprise fees. In this guide we break down the real cost of popular tech credentials, the hidden extras that pop up, and simple ways to stretch your budget.

First off, certification fees vary a lot. Entry‑level exams like CompTIA A+ usually sit between £150‑£200 per exam, while advanced credentials such as Cisco CCNP can climb above £600. Some providers bundle multiple exams into a package, which can shave off a few pounds. Remember that the price you see online is often just the exam fee – training, study guides, and retake costs add up fast.

Here’s a quick snapshot of typical UK prices for the most common certifications in 2025:

• CompTIA A+ – £180 per exam (two exams required)
• CompTIA Network+ – £200
• CompTIA Security+ – £210
• Cisco CCNA – £350
• Cisco CCNP – £620
• Microsoft Azure Fundamentals – £130
• Microsoft Azure Administrator – £250
• AWS Certified Solutions Architect – £300
• Google Associate Cloud Engineer – £260

Those numbers give you a baseline, but the total cost can be higher once you factor in study materials, practice tests, and any required lab subscriptions. A good textbook might cost £30‑£50, while an online bootcamp can run from £300 to over £1,000 depending on depth and instructor support.

Factors That Influence Certification Prices

Several things push the price up or down:

• Exam level: Beginner exams are cheaper than specialist or expert‑level tests.
• Provider reputation: Well‑known training companies often charge a premium for brand name and extra resources.
• Delivery method: Live classroom courses cost more than self‑paced online modules.
• Geographic location: Some testing centres add a location surcharge.
• Retake policy: If you fail, you’ll pay a separate fee for each attempt.

Tips to Keep Your IT Certification Budget in Check

Don’t let cost stop you from advancing. Here are practical ways to save:

• Use free resources: Vendor documentation, YouTube tutorials, and community forums often cover the same material as paid courses.
• Buy used or digital books: Many platforms sell e‑books at a fraction of the new price.
• Join a study group: Learning with peers can replace pricey instructor time and give you access to shared notes.
• Watch for discounts: Training providers run promos around holidays or during industry events – sign up for their newsletters.
• Plan your exam path: Stack related certifications (e.g., A+ then Network+) to reuse study material and reduce overlap.
• Consider voucher programs: Some employers, apprenticeship schemes, or government initiatives provide vouchers that cover part or all of the exam fee.

Finally, treat the certification as an investment, not an expense. Track the salary bump or new job opportunities that each credential unlocks. If a particular exam doesn’t lead to a clear career step, you might be better off focusing on hands‑on experience or a different certification that aligns with market demand.

Bottom line: IT certification costs are manageable as long as you know the price breakdown, avoid hidden fees, and use the money‑saving tips above. With the right plan, you can earn the badge you need without breaking the bank.