Costs for earning the Network+ certification in the United States typically hinge on the exam price, retake policies, and study materials. The main drivers are exam registration fees, retake fees if needed, and optional prep courses or practice tests. This guide uses clear low to high ranges to help budget and compare options.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exam Fee | Low $180 | Avg $340 | High $400 | In person or online variants; varies by provider |
| Retake Fee | $0 | $0-$150 | $0-$200 | Typically charged if failed first attempt |
| Prep Materials | $0 | $100-$500 | $500-$1,000 | Books, practice tests, video courses |
| Official Training Courses | $0 | $500-$1,200 | $2,000 | Instructor led or bootcamps |
| Practice Tests | $0 | $20-$100 | $200 | Standalone or included in course |
| Study Time Value | $0 | Varies | Varies | Opportunity cost of time |
| Taxes / Fees | 0-$30 | $10-$50 | $50-$100 | Depends on state and venue |
Overview Of Costs
Cost ranges reflect total project spend and per unit estimates for earning the Network+ credential in the United States. The total includes the exam price, possible retakes, and common study investments. Assumptions include choosing standard testing options and a mix of self study and optional formal training. Assumptions: region, exam format, and study intensity.
Cost Breakdown
The following table disaggregates typical components. It shows totals and per unit figures where applicable, with common drivers noted.
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $0 | $100 | $500 | Books, eBooks, practice questions |
| Labor | $0 | $0-$0 | $0 | Self study time often unpaid; cost captured as time |
| Training Courses | $0 | $500 | $1,500 | Online or in person |
| Exam Fee | $180 | $340 | $400 | Mandatory registration |
| Practice Tests | $0 | $20-$100 | $200 | Optional |
| Delivery / Center Fees | $0 | $0-$30 | $60 | Testing center surcharges where applicable |
| Taxes | $0 | $0-$10 | $20-$50 | Jurisdiction dependent |
What Drives Price
Exam price and retake policies are the primary cost drivers. Regional testing options, whether in person or online, create price variation. Additional factors include the choice of self study versus formal training, and the breadth of prep materials. Two niche drivers are the exam delivery method and the cost of official practice resources. Delivery method and resource depth influence total spend.
Factors That Affect Price
Several elements can push costs up or down. The exam format may change the base price, with online testing sometimes priced differently from on site. Preparation intensity and resource type, from free materials to official courses, directly impact totals. Other factors include taxes, center surcharges, and regional pricing differences within the U S.
Key numeric thresholds include: online exam prices near the mid range, and official training packages often surpass the mid range when chosen in full. Regional pricing variations can swing totals by a noticeable margin.
Ways To Save
Budget minded buyers can save by using free or low cost study materials, selecting online non live courses, and attending only essential practice tests. Consider combining self study with focused practice tests and delaying official training until after a practice pass. Planning around sales or promotions can trim the total by several tens of dollars to a few hundred. Look for bundles that include practice tests and study guides.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region and testing center. In urban areas the exam price often aligns with the national average, while suburban and rural centers may show slight deltas. A typical delta might be ±10–15 percent between Urban, Suburban, and Rural locations. Assuming standard delivery options, online testing reduces regional impact.
Real World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate common paths to Network+ certification.
Scenario 1: Basic A student uses free study guides and takes the exam online. Exam fee around the average, no formal training, no add ons. Total around $330-$380 depending on taxes and center fees. Hours spent: 20–40 study hours.
Scenario 2: Mid Range Self study plus one practice pack and a low cost online course. Exam fee plus practice tests totals around $420-$560. Total hours: 40–70. Assumptions: online test, standard practice set, minimal additional materials.
Scenario 3: Premium Includes official course, multiple practice tests, and a prep bootcamp. Total near $1,000-$1,500 depending on course length and center surcharges. Hours invested: 60–120. Assumptions: in person or live online delivery, extended training package.