How much does CCNP certification cost?
How much does CCNP certification cost?
$700 exam cost (core exam + one concentration exam)
$1,000 – $10,000 average exam prep costs
CCNP exam cost
CCNP certification costs include a $400 core exam and a $300 concentration exam, totaling $700 for both required exams. Candidates should also factor in additional costs for training courses, study materials, and potential lab setups, which can range from a few hundred to thousands of dollars, depending on how they choose to prepare.
| Exam type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Core exam | $400 |
| Concentration exam | $300 |
| Total exam fee | $700 |
What is CCNP certification?
CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional) is Cisco’s professional-level certification program for network engineers. CCNP covers advanced topics and validates advanced knowledge and skills in implementing, maintaining, and troubleshooting enterprise-level network solutions.
Here are some important details about CCNP:
Exam structure: CCNP requires passing two exams—a core exam (ENCOR) and a concentration exam. The core exam covers foundational topics across a specific technology, while the concentration exam focuses on an area of interest within that technology.
Exam format: The computer-based ENCOR exam consists of 90 to 110 multiple-choice questions, drag-and-drop questions, and lab simulations to test theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Exam duration: The core exam is 120 minutes, and the concentration exams are 90 to 120 minutes each.
Passing score: A passing score is around 825 out of 1000 for both the core and concentration exams but varies slightly by exam.
Specialization: CCNP offers five different concentration paths, allowing for specialization in specific technology areas.
Experience: Cisco recommends 3 to 5 years of network experience before attempting CCNP.
What topics are covered in the CCNP exams?
The CCNP exams cover a comprehensive range of topics essential for networking professionals. The core exam, known as ENCOR, includes subjects like network architecture, security, automation, and assurance.
Concentration exams cover specialization in areas such as advanced routing, wireless networking, or data center technologies, providing a well-rounded skill set for various networking roles.
CCNP certification cost factors
Considering all factors—exam fees, training, study materials, and potential home lab setup—the total cost to earn CCNP certification can range from $1,000 to over $10,000, depending on your preparation choices. The table below includes a breakdown of common CCNP exam prep costs to help you budget effectively:
| Test prep costs | Average cost | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Textbooks | $200 – $500 | Essential self-study resources for understanding core concepts and exam topics |
| Practice exams | $100 – $300 | Helpful for familiarizing yourself with exam formats and types of questions |
| Prep course | $400 – $4,000 | Courses are available in both live (in-person) and online formats, providing structured learning with expert instructors and interactive content |
| Bootcamp | $2,000 – $8,000 | Intensive sessions that offer focused training over a short period for those willing to pay more to prepare quickly |
| Private tutoring | $50 – $150 per hour | Personalized instruction to clarify difficult topics and enhance understanding |
| Home lab setup | $700 – $1,500 | Costs for building a practical lab environment for hands-on experience with networking equipment |
CCNP certification paths
To earn CCNP certification, candidates must pass a core exam and one concentration exam specific to their chosen path. The CCNP certification offers 5 specialized technology areas, depending on your career goals:
CCNP Collaboration Core: Ideal for professionals working with voice, video, and collaboration solutions in enterprise environments
CCNP Data Center Core: Suited for data center engineers focusing on data center design, implementation, and management
CCNP Enterprise Core: Designed for network engineers and administrators managing complex enterprise networks and services
CCNP Security Core: Targeted at security professionals responsible for implementing and managing secure network infrastructures
CCNP Service Provider Core: Aimed at engineers working in service provider environments, focusing on routing, switching, and service delivery
Within each path, multiple concentration exams are available, allowing candidates to further specialize in specific areas of their chosen field.
CCNP vs. CCNA certification
While CCNP is designed for seasoned network professionals, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is an associate-level certification suitable for entry-level networking professionals.
CCNA certification costs $300 to take a single exam that covers a broad range of fundamental networking technologies. Cisco recommends that candidates have 1 to 2 years of networking experience for success, but this is not a strict requirement.
Can I take CCNP without CCNA?
Yes, you can take the CCNP certification without first obtaining the CCNA, as there are no formal prerequisites. However, while the CCNA certification is not required, having that foundational knowledge is helpful for grasping the more advanced topics covered in CCNP. This progression marks a significant increase in expertise and responsibilities in a networking career.
FAQs about Cisco CCNP certification
Is CCNP certification worth it?
CCNP is generally considered worthwhile for networking professionals. According to Cisco, 78% of tech executives and managers consider technical certifications a critical factor for success and 99% of organizations use certifications to make hiring decisions. CCNP certification can result in:
Career advancement
Salary increase
In-demand skills
Job security
How long do I need to prepare for CCNP?
On average, candidates spend 6 to 12 months preparing for CCNP exams. This varies based on prior knowledge, study habits, and chosen learning methods—whether through formal training, bootcamps, or self-study. Creating a structured study plan, using official Cisco materials, and practicing with lab scenarios can enhance your readiness and confidence for exam day.
Can I take CCIE after CCNP?
Yes, CCNP certification qualifies you for the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) lab exam, Cisco's highest-level certification. While there are no formal prerequisites for CCIE, a solid understanding of advanced concepts from the CCNP curriculum greatly enhances your chance of success. Progressing through CCNA, CCNP, and then CCIE offers a structured path to deepen your networking expertise.
How often do I need to renew CCNP certification?
CCNP certification is valid for three years. Professional-level recertification requires 80 continuing education (CE) credits or 40 credits along with passing one professional-level exam, either the same as your current certification or a higher-level exam.
What to look for in a CCNP prep course or tutor
Follow these guidelines when selecting a training course or CCNP exam tutor:
Seek out tutors or course instructors who have a proven track record in CCNP exam preparation and verify their qualifications.
Research the tutor’s or course’s reputation by reading reviews on Lessons.com and Google and testimonials from former students.
Consider whether you prefer a structured learning environment or a more flexible approach that allows for self-paced study.
Confirm the course includes practice exams and detailed guides to reinforce your understanding of the material.
Make sure the tutor's or class's availability fits your personal schedule to facilitate consistent learning.
Look for a tutor who actively tracks your progress and provides constructive feedback to enhance your learning experience.
Questions to ask a CCNP tutor
When choosing an exam tutor, ask these questions to gauge their expertise and teaching style:
What is your teaching experience with CCNP topics?
How do you structure your lessons?
What is your approach to exam preparation?
How do you assess student progress?
What common challenges do students face when preparing for CCNP exams?
How do you incorporate hands-on practice into your tutoring?
What resources do you recommend for studying?
Can you provide real-world examples of CCNP concepts?
How do you stay updated with the latest networking technologies and trends?
Can you share success stories from previous students?
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