How much does the AWS Cloud Practitioner exam cost?
How much does the AWS Cloud Practitioner exam cost?
$100 exam fee
$200 – $500 average exam prep cost
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam cost
The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification is an excellent starting point for individuals looking to validate their foundational knowledge of AWS Cloud services. The exam costs $100 and exam prep costs vary depending on the training methods you choose. Candidates often spend $200 to $500 on a combination of free and low-cost prep resources.
| Item | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Exam Fee | $100 |
| AWS free resources | $0 |
| AWS Skill Builder subscription | $29 per month |
| AWS Classroom Training | $1,500 – $2,500+ |
| Online course | $20 – $200 |
| Study guide books | $30 – $60 |
| Tutoring | $40 – $120 per hour |
What is the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam?
The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam is an entry-level certification that validates foundational knowledge of AWS Cloud services and concepts. It's meant for individuals who are new to cloud computing, candidates who are from non-IT backgrounds, or professionals in the early stages of pursuing an AWS Cloud career.
Exam topics
The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam covers four main domains:
Domain 1: Cloud Concepts (24%) covers the fundamental benefits of using AWS Cloud, including cost savings, scalability, and flexibility. It also introduces the AWS Well-Architected Framework and discusses strategies for cloud adoption and migration.
Domain 2: Security and Compliance (30%) focuses on the AWS shared responsibility model, which outlines security roles between AWS and customers. It covers essential cloud security concepts, governance, compliance, and the tools available for managing access and security within AWS.
Domain 3: Cloud Technology and Services (34%) explores the AWS global infrastructure, including Regions and Availability Zones. It highlights key AWS services across various categories such as computer storage, databases, networking, artificial intelligence, and analytics, emphasizing their use cases and deployment methods.
Domain 4: Billing, Pricing, and Support (12%) explains different AWS pricing models (e.g., On-Demand, Reserved) and cost management tools. It also covers billing practices and the various support plans available to help customers manage their AWS resources effectively.
Exam overview
You can take the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam at a designated testing center or online with remote proctoring. If you choose to take it online, make sure you have a quiet space with a stable internet connection and a computer with a webcam to meet the exam's technical requirements.
The following table explains the key test details:
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $100 |
| Duration | 90 minutes |
| Questions | 65 total (50 scored, 15 unscored) |
| Exam format | Multiple-choice and multiple-response |
| Passing score | 700 out of 1000 points |
| Prerequisites | Basic understanding of AWS and 6 months of exposure (recommended) |
| Languages | Available in multiple languages including English, Japanese, Korean, Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Bahasa, Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Portuguese |
Exam benefits
The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam offers several important benefits for anyone looking to start a career in cloud computing:
Industry recognition: Shows that you have a basic understanding of AWS Cloud services, which can boost your credibility with employers
Career opportunities: Helps improve your job prospects and opens doors to roles in cloud computing and IT, such as Cloud Engineer, Cloud Analyst, Global Account Manager, and others
Structured learning: Provides a clear path to learning about cloud concepts, security practices, and AWS technologies
Networking: Gives you access to special AWS events and a community of AWS professionals for sharing knowledge and experiences
Digital badge: Includes a digital badge you can display on your professional profiles, making it easier for potential employers to see your qualifications
AWS Certification costs $100 to $300 on average, depending on which exam you take. Explore our guide to learn more about different AWS exams and the associated costs.
AWS Cloud Practitioner exam FAQs
Who should take the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam?
The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam is ideal for:
Non-technical professionals: Sales, marketing, business analysts, project managers
Newcomers to cloud computing: Students and recent graduates
Technical professionals: Developers and system administrators new to AWS
Business leaders: Managers overseeing IT projects or cloud strategies
Anyone seeking foundational knowledge: Individuals preparing for advanced AWS certifications
Is the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner worth it?
Yes, the certification is worthwhile for those early in their cloud careers or in non-technical roles interfacing with AWS. It provides a broad foundation of AWS knowledge that can be built upon for more advanced positions.
How many hours to prepare for the AWS Cloud Practitioner exam?
Most candidates spend about 30 hours over 1 to 2 months preparing for the Cloud Practitioner exam, depending on experience and study habits. Many candidates need fewer than 6 weeks, while some require up to 6 months. Tailoring your study plan to your background and learning style is essential for effective preparation.
How hard is the AWS Cloud Practitioner exam?
The Cloud Practitioner exam is moderately challenging for beginners but is the easiest AWS certification. It focuses on basic cloud concepts and AWS services rather than deep technical details. With about 1 to 2 months of study and an understanding of AWS terms, most candidates can do well.
Questions to ask an AWS tutor
Before selecting an AWS or computer programming tutor, it's essential to ensure they possess the right qualifications. They should showcase strong technical expertise, effective teaching skills, problem-solving abilities, and real-world experience with AWS applications. Ask these questions:
What AWS certifications do you have? Which do you think are most useful?
Which AWS services do you know best?
How do you stay up to date with new AWS features?
Have you taught AWS to others before? Tell me about it.
How do you teach students with different skill levels?
Can you explain a complex AWS topic, like VPCs, in simple terms?
What study materials and hands-on exercises do you use when teaching?
Can you give an example of a tough AWS problem you helped a student solve?
How do you use real-world examples in your lessons?
When are you available for tutoring?
How long and how often are your tutoring sessions usually?
What are your fees and how do you accept payment?
Do you offer any extra help between sessions?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.