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The demand for competent employees in the IT sector has significantly increased due to technological development as companies, organizations, and people transfer their physical activities to totally online settings.
One of the platforms allowing the continuous digital transformation of multiple sectors and enterprises is Microsoft Azure cloud computing, which has expanded at historic rates and will soon reach the next level. Everyone agrees that Microsoft's cloud platform Azure performs better than on-premises servers' performance, security, and cost. Organizations may benefit from using cloud services for diverse things, including computing, storage, analytics, and networking. Microsoft Azure certifications and training programs come in a range of role-based configurations.
"How much does a Microsoft certification cost?" is an often-asked question regarding these credentials. Knowing the exam's goals and where to acquire study materials is excellent, but it's also crucial to understand how much being certified will ultimately cost. This article discusses the price of the Microsoft certification examinations and what you may budget for a Microsoft certification. In this article, we'll explore the various certification paths, their costs, and the factors influencing these costs.
Which Types of Azure Certifications Does Microsoft Offer?
There are 21 certifications available right now from Microsoft Azure. These Azure certifications get divided into four distinct tiers based on complexity and range. These are:
- Fundamental
- Associate
- Expert
- Specialty
The Price of the Microsoft Certification Exam
Microsoft certification examinations come in a few distinct varieties. The price for each of these several exam kinds does vary significantly. Exam costs vary from one exam to the next.
Exam Fees for Associate and Expert
Microsoft Certified Associate
The Microsoft certification tests that lead to credentials like the Associate in Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator or the Expert in Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect are at the Associate and Expert levels. These are more comprehensive certificates, and to obtain them, you might need to pass one, two, or even three tests.
Individual Microsoft certification examinations at the Associate and Expert levels cost $165. Whether you succeed or fail, this is the fee for taking the test.
The "Associate" and "Expert" level tests for the Microsoft certification cost $165 each.
What is the price of Microsoft Certification?
Microsoft certification examinations at the Fundamentals level are geared towards more entry-level credentials, such as Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals. These tests are intended for persons with less than two years of experience or need to change occupations.
The Fundamentals examinations' target market has an impact on how much they cost. Exams for Microsoft certification at the Fundamentals level cost $99 each. Whether you succeed or fail, this is the fee for taking the test.
Overall Certification Cost
The complete cost of a Microsoft certification will vary depending on how many examinations are necessary to obtain the certification.
The Fundamentals certificates, such as the Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals, only needed one certification test to get passed. Therefore, this certification will set you back $99.
You may need to complete one or two examinations to earn Associate certifications like Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator. The certification fee will range from $165 to $330.
You need to get an Associate certification as a requirement before sitting for the test for an Expert certification, such as the Microsoft Certified: Azure DevOps Engineer Expert.
These Expert level certificates will thus cost between $330 and $495 for two or three examinations.
Depending on your starting point, the optimal certification path for you could be to take and pass a Fundamentals certification before progressing is an Associate or expert-level certification. As a result, taking this route will raise the overall cost of your certification trip, but it will also supply you with the opportunity to obtain numerous certificates.
Additional Factors Affecting Costs:
Location:
Exam prices can vary based on the country or region due to distinctions in economic factors and purchasing power. It's always a good idea to check the official Microsoft certification website or consult local testing centers for accurate pricing.
Retake Fees:
Microsoft offers discounted retake options if you fail your first attempt at the exam. If you need multiple retakes, those additional costs can add up.
Training and Study Materials:
While the costs noted above are strictly for the exams, it's essential to consider preparation. Many candidates opt for official training courses, which might range from $300 to over $2,000, depending on the course's length and depth. Additionally, there are costs associated with study guides, practice tests, and other resources.
Certification Renewals:
Microsoft has moved towards a model where specific certifications need to get renewed periodically, usually every 1-2 years. While these renewal exams are typically shorter and less expensive, they are an additional cost to consider for maintaining certification status.
Discounts and Offers:
Microsoft often provides discounts to students, educators, and military personnel. Moreover, there got periodic offers, vouchers, and bundles can lead to substantial savings. Always check if you qualify for any of these discounts.
Bundled Exams:
For certifications requiring multiple exams, Microsoft sometimes offers bundled pricing, which can be more cost-effective than paying for each exam individually.
Is the Investment Worth It?
While there are costs associated with Microsoft certifications, it is necessary to view them as an investment in your professional future rather than just an expense. Here's why:
- Increased Job Opportunities:
Certifications can give you a competitive edge in job applications as they demonstrate your skills and dedication to professional growth. - Potential for Higher Earnings:
Several surveys and studies indicate that certified professionals earn more than their non-certified counterparts. - Professional Growth:
Studying for certifications helps you gain deeper insights into tools and technologies, making you more proficient in your role. - Recognition:
Certifications can lead to massive recognition within your organization, opening doors to promotions and new projects.
Conclusion:
The cost of accepting a Microsoft certification varies based on the specific certification, region, and additional training or resources you might need. While there's a monetary cost associated, the potential benefits in terms of career growth, salary, and opportunities can far outweigh the initial investment. When considering a Microsoft certification, evaluate your professional goals, the potential return on investment, and the value it can add to your profile. Happy studying!
