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Microsoft Certification exams typically cost between USD 100 and $200. However, the total cost of becoming certified can be much higher in terms of study materials, exam prep courses, and retakes. Becoming certified can be a significant investment, but it can also pay off your career. Microsoft Certified Professionals earn an average of 10% more than their non-certified counterparts, according to PayScale.com. In addition, having a Microsoft Certification can make you more attractive to potential employers and help you advance your career. However, if you’re considering pursuing a Microsoft Certification, you need to know about the costs.
1. Exam Fees
The fees for most Microsoft Certification exams are between USD 100 and $200. You can find the fees for specific exams on the Microsoft website.
Associate and Expert: The Microsoft Certified Azure Administrator Associate and Azure Solutions Architect Expert are the exams that count toward certifications. To earn a more comprehensive certificate, you may be required to pass 1, 2, or even 3 examinations. The cost of the Microsoft Associate and Expert level certifications is typically USD 165.
Fundamentals Exam Cost: The Microsoft Fundamentals level certification tests are the company’s entry-level certifications. These examinations are meant for people with less than two years of work experience or those looking to change careers. The cost of Microsoft certification at the Fundamentals level is USD 99** per exam.
2. Study Materials
Study materials are available to help you prepare for your Microsoft Certification exam, including books, online courses, and practice tests. The cost of these materials can vary widely, but you can expect to spend at least a few hundred dollars on study materials.
3. Exam Prep Courses
You can sign up for Microsoft online courses if you want more structured help preparing for your exam. These courses typically cost between USD 500 and $1,000.
4. Retakes
If you don’t pass an exam on your first try, you can retake it to become a Microsoft Certified Professional. The fee for most exams is USD 50 for the first retake and USD 125 for each subsequent retake.
5. Certification Maintenance
Once you become certified, you’ll need to renew your certification every two or three years. The renewal fee for most Microsoft Certifications is USD 100.
6. Microsoft Certificate Training Sessions for New Releases
Microsoft often releases new versions of its products, and certified professionals need to stay up-to-date on these changes. You’ll need to attend training sessions, which can cost between USD 500 and USD 1,000.
7. Membership in Professional Organizations
There are organizations such as the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). These organizations offer a variety of benefits, including discounts on conferences and publications, but they also typically charge annual membership fees.
8. Certification Exam Discounts
You might get a discount on your Microsoft certification exam if you’re a member of specific professional organizations or if you work for a Microsoft Partner. Check with your organization or employer to see if they offer any discounts on exam courses such as cloud security or cloud computing.
9. Free Microsoft Certification Exams
If you’re a student, you might take Microsoft Certification exams for free through the Microsoft Imagine Academy program.
10. Other Costs to Consider
When budgeting for your Microsoft Certifications, don’t forget to factor in the costs of things like travel and lodging if you’re taking an exam at a testing centre that’s not near you. You should also plan for the cost of time spent studying and taking exams, which could be substantial if you have to study during evenings or weekends.
How to Prepare for Microsoft Certification Exam?
The best way to study for these exams is to follow Microsoft certification courses, study materials, and practice tests. This will allow you to learn the material and test your knowledge before taking the actual exam. There are many study materials available, including books, online courses, and practice tests. The cost of these materials can vary widely, but you can expect to spend at least a few hundred dollars on study materials. In addition, you may want to sign up for an exam prep course. These courses typically cost between USD 500 and USD 1,000.
What Is the Format of the Microsoft Certification Exam?
Microsoft Certification exams are offered in various formats, including multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and simulation. The exam format will vary depending on the specific certification you’re pursuing.
What Is the Passing Score for Microsoft Certification Exam?
The passing score for most exams of Microsoft Certification is 700 out of 1000. However, the passing score can vary depending on the specific exam.
Conclusion
The cost of Microsoft certification can vary widely depending on the level of certification you’re pursuing, the number of exams required, and the type of study materials you use. However, you can expect to spend at least a few hundred dollars on the process. If you’re looking for ways to reduce the cost of becoming Microsoft certified, consider taking advantage of discounts or free resources whenever possible.
I am James, a UK-based tech enthusiast and the Editor and Owner of Mighty Gadget, which I’ve proudly run since 2007. Passionate about all things technology, my expertise spans from computers and networking to mobile, wearables, and smart home devices.
As a fitness fanatic who loves running and cycling, I also have a keen interest in fitness-related technology, and I take every opportunity to cover this niche on my blog. My diverse interests allow me to bring a unique perspective to tech blogging, merging lifestyle, fitness, and the latest tech trends.
In my academic pursuits, I earned a BSc in Information Systems Design from UCLAN, before advancing my learning with a Master’s Degree in Computing. This advanced study also included Cisco CCNA accreditation, further demonstrating my commitment to understanding and staying ahead of the technology curve.
I’m proud to share that Vuelio has consistently ranked Mighty Gadget as one of the top technology blogs in the UK. With my dedication to technology and drive to share my insights, I aim to continue providing my readers with engaging and informative content.
