Thinking about becoming CCNA certified but worried about the cost? You’re not alone. Many aspiring network engineers hesitate to take the next step because they’re unsure how much it really costs—and whether it’s affordable. The good news? You can earn your CCNA certification without draining your savings.
In this guide, we’ll break down the CCNA certification cost, share expert tips to save money on exam and study materials, and show you the cheapest way to get CCNA certified without compromising your chances of passing.
What Is the Actual CCNA Certification Cost in 2025?
As of 2025, the official CCNA exam cost is $300 USD (excluding taxes), according to Cisco’s official website.
Here’s a quick cost breakdown:
Clearly, there’s a wide range—and that’s where these cost hacks come into play.
Top Hacks to Slash Your CCNA Certification Cost
1. Take Advantage of Cisco Exam Discounts
Cisco often offers promotional exam vouchers and certification bundles through events, partners, and official training providers.
Tips to find discounts:
- Monitor Cisco Learning Promotions.
- Subscribe to Cisco newsletters.
- Check with your employer for Cisco Learning Partner discounts.
**Pro Tip: **If you're a student or work in education, you may qualify for academic pricing on the exam.
2. Use Free and Low-Cost Study Materials
Yes, you can prepare for the CCNA without breaking the bank.
Free CCNA Study Resources:
- Cisco Networking Academy: Offers free courses for beginners.
- YouTube Channels: Look for instructors IT Lab.
- Reddit and Forums: Subreddits like r/ccna offer peer advice and free resources.
Affordable Alternatives:
- Purchase older versions of CCNA books (still relevant for core topics).
- Use affordable study bundles like those offered by nwexam.com —an excellent resource for CCNA practice tests.
3. Choose the Right Training—Without Overpaying
Affordable CCNA training doesn’t mean low quality. Look for platforms that offer:
- Self-paced video courses under $100 (e.g., Udemy, Skillshare).
- Community college courses or bootcamps with installment payment options.
- Employer-sponsored training (ask your HR or learning and development team).
4. Practice Smarter with Budget-Friendly Tests
Hands-on practice is essential. But lab equipment can be expensive. Here’s how to prepare affordably:
Cost-effective Lab Solutions:
- Cisco Packet Tracer: Free simulation tool from Cisco Networking Academy.
- GNS3 or EVE-NG: Powerful open-source network emulators.
- Virtual Labs: Buy short-term access to cloud-based Cisco labs.
5. Plan a Smart Study Schedule
Time is money. A focused, disciplined study plan reduces the risk of retaking the exam, saving you $300+.
CCNA Budget Preparation Tips:
- Follow a structured 8–12 week plan.
- Combine video training with hands-on labs and mock tests.
- Use spaced repetition tools (like Anki) for memorizing CLI commands.
6. Avoid Unnecessary Extras
Steer clear of:
- Expensive live bootcamps (unless your company pays for it).
- Overpriced lab equipment you don’t need.
- Exam rescheduling fees (be prepared and only book when ready).
Is CCNA Certification Worth the Investment?
Absolutely. Even with a minimal budget, getting CCNA certified can significantly boost your earning potential and job opportunities in network administration, technical support, and cybersecurity.
Real-world salary range for CCNA-certified professionals (2025):
- Entry-Level (0–2 yrs): $55,000 – $75,000
- Mid-Level (3–5 yrs): $75,000 – $95,000+
Final Thoughts: Smart Spending for a Smarter Career
You don’t need a fortune to get certified—you just need the right strategy. By using free resources, affordable tools, and budget hacks, you can manage your CCNA certification cost wisely.
Ready to take the next step? Start practicing with trusted and cost-effective mock tests and get closer to your CCNA success—without overspending.
FAQs: CCNA Certification Cost & Money-Saving Tips
1. How much does the CCNA exam cost in 2025?
The exam fee is $300 USD. Taxes may apply depending on your region.
2. What is the cheapest way to get CCNA certified?
Use free Cisco Networking Academy resources, affordable practice exams like nwexam, and low-cost video courses.
3. Where can I find affordable CCNA training?
Platforms like Udemy, Skillshare, and Cisco Networking Academy offer Affordable CCNA training options under $100.
4. Can I study for CCNA for free?
Yes. Combine free online courses, Packet Tracer, YouTube content, and discussion forums.
5. Are CCNA practice tests necessary?
Yes. Practice tests help you assess your readiness, reduce test anxiety, and avoid retaking the exam—ultimately saving money.
Top comments (3)
I self-prepared for the exam and paid $10 for a Udemy course and $84.15 for the Boson ExSim thanks to the BosonMichael coupon code.
It's absolutely wild what some schools charge in my country for an in-person training . I've seen a course being advertised $4'000 for 5 days.
That’s a smart and cost-effective way to prep! I also came across similar tips in this article on saving money for CCNA. Spending under $100 compared to $4,000 for a 5-day course is a huge win. Thanks for sharing!