Cisco CCNA Exam Cost 2026: Full Breakdown
Planning to earn your Cisco CCNA certification in 2026? The exam itself is a fixed cost, but your total investment depends on multiple factors: training method, study materials, retakes, and whether you're pursuing this in the United States, United Kingdom, or Canada. Understanding the complete cost breakdown helps you budget accurately and identify legitimate ways to save money without cutting corners on preparation quality.
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Cisco CCNA Exam Voucher Cost in 2026
The official Cisco CCNA (200-301) exam voucher costs $330 USD globally in 2026. This price has remained consistent for several years and applies whether you're taking the exam in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, or any other country that uses Pearson VUE testing centers.
Cisco sets this standard pricing through their official partner, Pearson VUE, the exclusive testing provider for all Cisco certification exams. When you purchase an exam voucher directly from Cisco Learning Network or authorized resellers, you always pay $330 USD for the CCNA 200-301 exam.
Important note: The $330 price is for the exam attempt itself. This does not include any training materials, courses, practice exams, or study resources. Your total cost depends on what additional preparation you choose to purchase.
Where to Purchase Your Exam Voucher
You can purchase CCNA exam vouchers through several official channels:
- Cisco Learning Network: Direct from Cisco, $330 USD
- Pearson VUE: Official testing partner, $330 USD
- Authorized Training Partners: Many IT training providers (including DiviTrain) offer bundled packages that include exam vouchers
- Third-party Retailers: Authorized resellers occasionally offer small discounts or promotional pricing, typically 5-10% off
When purchasing vouchers outside of Cisco's official store, verify that the seller is authorized by Cisco to distribute exam vouchers. Counterfeit or invalid vouchers are extremely rare from authorized vendors but represent a complete financial loss if purchased from unauthorized sources.
CCNA Training Costs by Provider Type
Your exam voucher cost ($330) is separate from training costs. The type of training provider you choose dramatically impacts your total investment. Here's a realistic breakdown by training method:
Self-Study with Free Resources
- Cost: $0–$100 (if you buy a used textbook)
- Includes: YouTube videos, Cisco documentation, free online forums
- Best for: Candidates with existing networking knowledge, unlimited study time, and high self-discipline
- Risk: High failure rate (30–50%) among first-time takers; often leads to retakes and higher overall cost
Budget Training Platforms
- Cost: $50–$200
- Includes: Video lectures, some practice questions, limited support
- Examples: Udemy (with sales), CompTIA A+ training overlap content
- Best for: Learners with networking foundations looking for supplementary material
Comprehensive Online Training Courses
- Cost: $400–$800
- Includes: Full video curriculum, interactive lessons, practice exams, tutor support, 6–12 months access
- Examples: DiviTrain CCNA course, Pluralsight, A Cloud Guru
- Best for: Working professionals, beginners in networking, candidates seeking structured learning
Bootcamps and Instructor-Led Training
- Cost: $1,200–$3,500
- Includes: In-person or live virtual instruction, daily mentoring, intensive curriculum (2–4 weeks)
- Best for: Career changers, learners who thrive with accountability, those with budget flexibility
University or College Programs
- Cost: $2,000–$8,000+ per semester
- Includes: Accredited degree pathway, structured labs, instructor support, campus resources
- Best for: Students seeking a degree, those eligible for student loans or employer sponsorship
Regional Pricing: US, UK, Canada
The CCNA exam voucher itself is $330 USD globally. However, regional factors affect your total cost:
United States Pricing
- Exam Voucher: $330 USD
- Training Course Range: $400–$1,200
- Total Estimated Cost: $730–$1,530
- Testing Center Locations: 5,000+ Pearson VUE centers nationwide; no travel costs for most candidates
- Special Offers: Many US employers offer training reimbursement; federal workforce development grants available in some states
United Kingdom Pricing
- Exam Voucher: £240 GBP (approximately $330 USD equivalent)
- Training Course Range: £300–£900 GBP
- Total Estimated Cost: £540–£1,140 GBP ($720–$1,520 USD)
- Testing Center Locations: 1,500+ Pearson VUE centers across England, Scotland, Wales
- Special Offers: UK apprenticeship levy can fund certifications for eligible companies; some universities offer CCNA as continuing education
Canada Pricing
- Exam Voucher: $450 CAD (approximately $330 USD)
- Training Course Range: $500–$1,400 CAD
- Total Estimated Cost: $950–$1,850 CAD ($700–$1,370 USD)
- Testing Center Locations: 800+ Pearson VUE centers; concentrated in major cities
- Special Offers: Some provinces offer workforce development grants; employer sponsorship common in Toronto, Vancouver tech sectors
Currency Note: If purchasing training from international providers, exchange rates affect your local cost. Locking in your purchase when exchange rates are favorable can save 5–15% depending on currency fluctuations.
Retake Fees and Multiple Exam Attempts
If you don't pass the CCNA exam on your first attempt, you'll need to budget for retake costs. Understanding retake pricing is essential for realistic financial planning.
Retake Exam Voucher Cost
Each CCNA exam attempt costs $330 USD. There is no discount for retakes, and Cisco does not offer package pricing for multiple attempts. If you fail and take the exam three times, you pay $330 × 3 = $990 just for exam vouchers.
Retake Waiting Period Rules
- After 1st Failure: You can retake immediately (no waiting period)
- After 2nd Failure: You must wait 5 calendar days before attempting again
- After 3rd Failure: You must wait 30 calendar days before your 4th attempt
These waiting periods prevent candidates from taking the exam repeatedly without studying, but they don't affect your financial cost directly. However, they do extend your certification timeline.
How Often Do Candidates Retake?
Industry data suggests:
- First-time pass rate: 65–75% for well-prepared candidates
- Average number of attempts: 1.4–1.6 attempts per successful candidate
- Candidates failing all attempts within reasonable timeframe: Less than 5% (usually due to inadequate study time)
The implication: Budget for a potential retake ($330) as a contingency, even though most candidates pass on the first or second attempt.
How to Reduce Retake Risk
- Invest in comprehensive training upfront (better quality training reduces retakes by 30–40%)
- Use official MeasureUp practice exams before your real attempt
- Score 80%+ on practice tests before scheduling your real exam
- Study for 100–150 hours total (minimum for success without prior networking experience)
Hidden Costs You Shouldn't Overlook
Beyond the exam voucher and training course, several secondary costs often surprise candidates. Plan for these to avoid budget overruns:
Practice Exam Costs
MeasureUp (the official Cisco practice exam provider) offers two formats:
- Practice Exam Bundle (2 exams, 60 days access): $90–$130
- Individual Practice Exam: $50–$70
Alternative providers (Boson ExSim, Kaplan, Transcender) charge $60–$150. Some comprehensive training bundles include MeasureUp access, so check before purchasing separately.
Study Materials and Textbooks
- Official Cisco Press CCNA Study Guide: $45–$70 (physical or digital)
- Lab study guides and supplementary books: $20–$50
- Digital access to Cisco documentation: Usually free, but some advanced resources require a subscription
Testing Center Costs
- Testing center fees: Included in your $330 voucher (no additional testing center cost)
- Travel and accommodation (if not local): $50–$300+ depending on location
- Proctored exam software (OnVUE remote testing): Free if taking at a center; no extra cost for remote
Time Investment (Opportunity Cost)
While not a direct expense, study time represents an opportunity cost. Most candidates invest 100–150 hours to prepare for CCNA. At $25–$50/hour professional rates, this represents $2,500–$7,500 in "lost productive time." This is why choosing efficient training matters.
Certification Maintenance (Years 2–3)
- CCNA validity period: 3 years from pass date
- Renewal option 1: Retake the full exam ($330)
- Renewal option 2: Earn a higher Cisco certification (CCNP Enterprise, CCNP Data Center, etc.) to automatically renew CCNA
- Renewal option 3: Complete continuing education credits (often free through Cisco Learning Network)
How to Save Money on CCNA Certification
The $330 exam voucher is fixed, but you can legitimately reduce training and study costs by 20–50% using these strategies:
Strategy 1: Bundle Training and Exam Vouchers
Many training providers offer combo packages that cost less than purchasing separately. DiviTrain's CCNA course, for example, bundles comprehensive training with the exam voucher, often at a 15–20% savings compared to buying each component individually.
Savings potential: $100–$300
Strategy 2: Take Advantage of Promotional Periods
- Watch for Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and year-end sales (typically 20–40% off training)
- Check training platforms during seasonal back-to-school promotions (July–August)
- Sign up for email alerts from training providers to catch flash sales
- Note: Exam voucher pricing itself rarely discounts, but bundle prices fluctuate
Savings potential: $50–$200
Strategy 3: Employer or Government Funding
- Employer training budgets: Many tech companies allocate $1,000–$5,000/year per employee for professional development
- US Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) grants: Free or subsidized training for eligible workers
- UK Apprenticeship Levy: Employers with £3M+ payroll can fund certifications
- Canada Skills Training grants: Provincial programs vary; check your local labor ministry
- Veterans benefits (US/Canada): GI Bill and other military programs cover certification costs
Savings potential: $400–$1,200 (100% cost coverage possible)
Strategy 4: Defer Some Study Costs
- Start with free YouTube videos and Cisco documentation to assess your baseline knowledge
- Purchase practice exams only if you score below 75% on free assessment quizzes
- Use included practice materials before buying supplementary study guides
Savings potential: $50–$150
Strategy 5: Choose Online Training Over In-Person
- Online training: $400–$800, no travel costs
- In-person bootcamp: $1,500–$3,500, plus travel, accommodation ($50–$300)
- Online self-paced training is 60–70% cheaper than instructor-led bootcamps while delivering similar pass rates
Savings potential: $700–$2,700
Strategy 6: Avoid the Retake Cost Entirely
The most effective cost-saving strategy is maximizing your first-attempt pass rate:
- Invest in quality training upfront (reduces retake probability from 35% to 15–20%)
- Study for the recommended 100–150 hours before scheduling your exam
- Score 80%+ on official MeasureUp practice exams before attempting the real exam
- Schedule your exam only after consistent high-score practice test performance
Savings potential: $330–$990 (avoided retakes)
DiviTrain CCNA Cost Breakdown
DiviTrain offers a comprehensive CCNA training solution designed to deliver value while keeping costs reasonable for candidates in the US, UK, and Canada.
The DiviTrain Advantage
- Expert tutor support available 24/7
- MeasureUp Practice Exams (60 days access)
- 365 days of access to all course materials
What's Included in DiviTrain's Course
- Full video curriculum: 40+ hours of expert-led instruction covering all exam topics
- Interactive lessons: Structured learning with quizzes after each module
- MeasureUp practice exams: Two full-length exams with detailed performance analytics (60 days access)
- Expert tutor support: 24/7 access to qualified instructors for questions
- 365-day access: Full year to complete your studies at your pace
- Study notes and resources: Downloadable PDF guides for each topic area
DiviTrain Pricing Model
DiviTrain bundles training with the official Cisco CCNA exam voucher, eliminating the need to purchase the voucher separately. This integrated approach reduces friction and typically saves 15–20% compared to separate purchases.
Typical bundle cost: $550–$750 USD (includes $330 voucher value plus training)
Cost per component (if broken down):
- Training course value: $400–$500
- Exam voucher: $330
- Practice exams: $90–$130
- Total à la carte: $820–$960
- DiviTrain bundle discount: 15–20% ($150–$210 savings)
Payment and Flexibility Options
- Full upfront payment: Pay once, 365 days access
- Payment plans: Many training providers offer 2–3 installment options (check current availability)
- Refund policy: Check DiviTrain's refund terms for your region (typically 14-day money-back policies are standard in the industry)
For detailed pricing and current promotions, visit the DiviTrain CCNA 200-301 course page.
CCNA Certification Cost Compared to Other Networking Certifications
Understanding how CCNA pricing compares to alternative networking certifications helps you make an informed career investment decision.
CompTIA Network+ vs. CCNA
- CompTIA Network+ exam cost: $370 USD
- Network+ training range: $300–$700
- Total typical investment: $670–$1,070
- Career positioning: Network+ is entry-level; CCNA is industry-recognized for advanced networking roles
- Salary difference (US average): Network+ ($55,000–$70,000) vs. CCNA ($75,000–$95,000)
While Network+ costs slightly less, CCNA offers superior salary prospects and vendor credibility. For career advancement in networking, CCNA ROI typically exceeds Network+.
CCNA vs. Cisco CCNP Enterprise
- CCNP Enterprise exam cost: $330 USD (same as CCNA)
- CCNP training range: $600–$1,500 (more advanced material)
- Total typical investment: $930–$1,830
- Prerequisite: CCNA is required before attempting CCNP
- Salary difference (US average): CCNA ($75,000–$95,000) vs. CCNP ($100,000–$130,000)
Strategic note: Many candidates pursue CCNA first ($650–$1,100 total investment), then CCNP within 12–18 months. Total 2-year investment for both certifications is typically $1,500–$2,500, delivering strong ROI through significantly higher salary potential.
CCNA vs. Cloud Certifications (AWS, Microsoft Azure)
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect exam cost: $150 USD
- AWS training range: $100–$600
- Total typical investment: $250–$750
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals exam cost: $99 USD
- Azure training range: $200–$500
- Total typical investment: $299–$599
Cloud certifications have lower exam costs but narrower job market applicability. CCNA remains more universally required for traditional enterprise networking roles. Candidates often pursue CCNA + cloud certifications for comprehensive career flexibility.
Learn more about the most in-demand certifications to understand how CCNA fits your career roadmap.
Real-World CCNA Cost Examples
Example 1: Self-Funded Professional in the US
- DiviTrain CCNA course bundle: $650
- MeasureUp practice exams (included): $0
- Study guide book: $50
- Estimated one-attempt pass rate: 75%
- Total cost (first attempt): $700
- If retake needed: $700 + $330 = $1,030
- Most likely scenario: $700–$1,030 total investment
Example 2: UK Candidate with Employer Support
- DiviTrain CCNA course (employer funded): £450 ($600 USD)
- Exam voucher (employer funded): £240 ($330 USD)
- Additional study materials: £40 ($55 USD)
- Total out-of-pocket cost: £0 (fully employer-sponsored)
- Employer investment: £730 ($975 USD)
Example 3: Canadian Career Changer Using Government Grant
- DiviTrain CCNA course (WIOA-equivalent grant): $650 CAD covered
- Exam voucher (career development fund): $450 CAD covered
- Optional bootcamp workshop (self-paid): $200 CAD
- Total out-of-pocket cost: $200 CAD
- Total program value: $1,300 CAD, with 85% grant coverage
ROI: What You'll Earn After CCNA Certification
Understanding your return on investment helps justify the upfront cost. CCNA certification is one of the highest-ROI IT certifications available.
Average Salary by Role and Region
United States
- Network Engineer (CCNA-level): $75,000–$95,000/year
- Systems Administrator: $65,000–$85,000/year
- IT Support Specialist (with CCNA): $50,000–$70,000/year
- Senior Network Engineer (CCNA prerequisite for advancement): $95,000–$130,000/year
United Kingdom
- Network Engineer (CCNA-level): £45,000–£65,000/year
- IT Infrastructure Specialist: £40,000–£58,000/year
- Senior Network Engineer: £65,000–£95,000/year
Canada
- Network Engineer (CCNA-level): CAD $65,000–$85,000/year
- Systems Administrator: CAD $55,000–$75,000/year
- Senior Network Engineer: CAD $85,000–$115,000/year
Salary Increase from CCNA Certification
Industry research shows CCNA certification increases earning potential:
- Entry-level IT professional without CCNA: $45,000–$55,000/year
- Same professional with CCNA: $65,000–$85,000/year
- Average salary increase: $15,000–$25,000/year (27–45% increase)
- 10-year career earnings impact: $150,000–$250,000+ additional income
ROI Calculation
Investment: $700–$1,200 (training + exam)
Return (Year 1): $15,000–$25,000 additional salary
ROI Year 1: 1,250%–3,500% return on investment
Payback period: Less than 1 month (the salary increase covers certification costs in the first month of employment at a CCNA-level position)
This exceptional ROI makes CCNA one of the most cost-effective professional investments in IT.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is the CCNA exam free?
A: No. The CCNA (200-301) exam costs $330 USD through official Cisco channels in 2026. This is a mandatory fixed cost set by Cisco. Training courses are separate and optional, but the exam voucher itself is never free. Some employers cover this cost as part of professional development budgets.
Q2: Can I take the CCNA exam without paying for a training course?
A: Yes. You can study using free resources (YouTube, Cisco documentation, free forums) and only pay the $330 exam voucher. However, this approach has a 30–50% failure rate among first-time takers, often leading to the $330 retake cost anyway. Most successful candidates invest in structured training, which improves first-attempt pass rates to 70–80%.
Q3: How much does the MeasureUp practice exam cost separately?
A: Official MeasureUp practice exams for CCNA cost $90–$130 for a bundle of two full-length exams (60 days access). Individual exams cost $50–$70 each. Many comprehensive training courses include MeasureUp access, so always check what's bundled before purchasing separately.
Q4: Is CCNA more expensive than CompTIA Network+ certification?
A: The exam vouchers are similar in cost (Network+ $370 vs. CCNA $330). However, Network+ training is often cheaper ($300–$500) due to more budget options available. Total investment is roughly equivalent, but CCNA delivers significantly higher salary potential ($75,000–$95,000 vs. $55,000–$70,000) and superior career advancement opportunities.
Q5: Do I need to pay for a training course, or can I just buy the exam voucher?
A: Training courses are optional but highly recommended. You only legally need the $330 exam voucher. However, 35–50% of candidates who attempt CCNA with only free resources fail and must retake the exam ($330 additional cost). Investing $400–$700 in structured training typically increases first-attempt pass rates to 75–85%, making training cost-effective by avoiding retakes.
Q6: What is the total cost of CCNA certification including everything?
A: A realistic total investment is $700–$1,200 USD, breaking down as: exam voucher ($330) + comprehensive training course ($400–$700) + practice exams (often included in training, or $50–$130 if separate) + optional study materials ($0–$100). This assumes a first-attempt pass. If a retake is needed, add another $330 for the exam voucher.
Q7: Can employers cover CCNA certification costs?
A: Yes. Many tech companies have professional development budgets that cover CCNA costs fully. Additionally, US workers may qualify for government funding through WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act), UK apprenticeship levy programs, or Canadian provincial workforce development grants. Discuss with your HR department or local workforce development office about coverage options.
Q8: How long does CCNA certification remain valid, and do I need to pay to renew it?
A: CCNA certification is valid for 3 years from your pass date. To maintain it, you can retake the CCNA exam ($330) or earn a higher Cisco certification (like CCNP) which automatically renews all lower certifications. Alternatively, complete free continuing education credits through Cisco Learning Network. The cheapest renewal option is usually free continuing education.
Final Recommendation: Budgeting for Success
The CCNA certification delivers exceptional ROI, but smart budgeting increases your likelihood of success. Here's our recommendation for minimizing costs while maximizing pass probability:
Recommended Path: Balanced Investment
- Choose a comprehensive training course: $400–$700 (like DiviTrain CCNA)
- Purchase bundled training + exam voucher: $550–$750 (saves 15–20% vs. separate purchase)
- Budget for one additional practice exam set: $0 (if included) or $50–$130
- Allocate contingency for potential retake: $330 (even though 75% pass on first attempt)
- Total realistic budget: $700–$1,100
Success Factors to Protect Your Investment
- Study for 100–150 hours minimum before scheduling your exam
- Score 80%+ on practice exams before attempting the real exam
- Use expert tutor support when concepts are unclear (included 24/7 support is often underutilized)
- Schedule your exam when ready, not by arbitrary deadlines
- Review weak topic areas using available resources before your attempt
Following this approach, your first-attempt pass rate will likely exceed 80%, meaning your actual cost will be close to $700–$800 total with no retakes required.
About the Author
DiviTrain is an international IT learning platform with nearly 20 years of experience in professional IT training. Our courses are developed by Skillsoft, the global leader in enterprise learning, ensuring high-quality, industry-relevant content. You get access to expert tutor support available 24/7, official MeasureUp practice exams, and a learning experience backed by DiviTrain's commitment to your certification success. Whether you're pursuing your first certification or advancing your career in networking and IT infrastructure, DiviTrain provides the complete tools, guidance, and support you need to succeed.
