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The CCNP exam costs a total of $700 in exam fees: $400 for the core exam and $300 for the concentration exam. That is the base price for the two required Cisco exams, and it applies to every CCNP specialization track.
- How Much Does the CCNP Exam Cost?
- What Is the Breakdown of CCNP Certification Expenses?
- How Much Does CCNP Cost Compared to CCNA and CCIE?
- What Is the Financial Commitment for a CCNP Certification?
- What Is the Total CCNP Certification Budget?
- Is CCNP Certification Worth the Cost?
- How Can You Save Money on CCNP Certification?
- How Much Does CCNP Recertification Cost?
- Should You Invest in CCNP Certification?
- Maximize Your Learning with CloudMyLab
How Much Does the CCNP Exam Cost?
The Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) certification is a globally recognized credential that validates advanced networking skills. It is a crucial step for IT professionals looking to specialize in CCNP Enterprise networking, security, automation, and cloud networking.
Cisco requires you to pass two exams to earn CCNP certification:
1. Core Exam (Mandatory) — $400
- This exam covers the foundational enterprise networking concepts, including automation and security.
- It serves as a prerequisite for advanced Cisco certifications (like the CCIE).
- Exam duration: 120 minutes.
2. Concentration Exam (Specialization) — $300
- You get to choose one specialization based on your career goals.
- It covers advanced networking topics such as security, SD-WAN, wireless, and automation.
- Exam duration: 90 minutes.
So, the total CCNP certification exam cost: $700.
Keep in mind that this is just the exam fee. You will also need to budget for study materials, training courses, and lab practice, which can push the real total to $1,000–$2,500 depending on how you prepare.
What Is the Breakdown of CCNP Certification Expenses?
Cisco offers several CCNP tracks, each built around one core exam and a set of concentration exams you can choose from. The core exam always costs $400 and the concentration exam always costs $300, regardless of the track.
CCNP Tracks: Core and Concentration Exams
| Track | Core Exam (Code) | Core Cost | Concentration Example (Code) | Conc. Cost | Total |
| CCNP Enterprise | ENCOR (350-401) | $400 | ENARSI (300-410) | $300 | $700 |
| CCNP Security | SCOR (350-701) | $400 | SNCF (300-710) | $300 | $700 |
| CCNP Data Center | DCCOR (350-601) | $400 | DCIT (300-615) | $300 | $700 |
| CCNP Collaboration | CLCOR (350-801) | $400 | CLICA (300-810) | $300 | $700 |
| CCNP Service Provider | SPCOR (350-501) | $400 | SPRI (300-510) | $300 | $700 |
Each track includes multiple concentration exam options. For example, CCNP Enterprise lets you choose between ENARSI (Advanced Routing), SD-WAN (300-415), Wireless (300-430), and Automation (300-435). Pick the one that aligns with your career goals.
How Much Does CCNP Cost Compared to CCNA and CCIE?
One of the most common questions is how CCNP stacks up against other Cisco certifications in terms of cost. Here is a side-by-side comparison:
| Certification | Level | Exams Required | Exam Fees | Study Materials | Lab Costs | Typical Total |
| CCNA (200-301) | Associate | 1 exam | $330 | $50–$500 | $0–$500 | $380–$1,330 |
| CCNP | Professional | 2 exams | $700 | $100–$1,500 | $0–$2,000 | $800–$4,200 |
| CCIE | Expert | Core + Lab | $400 + $1,600 | $200–$2,000 | $500–$5,000 | $2,700–$9,000 |
A few things to keep in mind:
- CCNA is not a prerequisite for CCNP. Cisco removed that requirement in 2020. However, having CCNA-level knowledge is strongly recommended since CCNP builds on those concepts.
- The CCNP core exam also qualifies you for the CCIE lab exam. If you are planning to pursue CCIE eventually, the $400 core exam does double duty, you don't pay for a separate CCIE written exam.
- CCNP offers the best price-to-career-impact ratio for most network engineers. CCNA opens the door, but CCNP is what moves you into senior roles and specialized positions.
What Is the Financial Commitment for a CCNP Certification?
Training and Study Materials
While self-study is an option, many professionals invest in official Cisco training courses, books, online learning platforms, and practice exams.
| Resource | Estimated Cost |
| Cisco Official Cert Guide | $50–$80 |
| Cisco Learning Network Training | $500–$1,500 |
| Online Courses (Udemy, INE, Pluralsight) | $20–$500 |
| Practice Exams (Boson, Pearson) | $30–$100 |
The total study material cost can range from $100 to $1,500, depending on the resources you choose.
Hands-on Lab Equipment or Simulators
To gain practical experience, many candidates build home labs or use Cisco Packet Tracer, GNS3, or EVE-NG simulators.
| Lab Setup | Estimated Cost |
| Cisco Packet Tracer (Free) | $0 |
| GNS3 (Software) | Free |
| EVE-NG Community Edition | Free |
| Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) Personal | $199/year |
| Cloud-Based Labs (CloudMyLab) | From $49/month |
| Physical Cisco Devices (Routers, Switches) | $500–$2,000 |
For cost-effective practice, virtual labs and cloud-based environments are a great option. Physical equipment is no longer necessary for CCNP preparation, modern simulators and cloud labs support the full range of topologies and protocols you will encounter on the exam.
Read more: Check our guide on picking the best Network Simulator for Your Cisco CCNA, CCNP, CCIE exam prep
Exam Retake Costs
If you fail the CCNP exam, you will have to pay the full exam fee again to retake it. Since each exam costs $300 or $400, retaking exams can significantly increase the overall cost.
To avoid these extra costs, invest in mock exams and hands-on practice before you attempt the real test.
For more details you may check the Exam, Testing, and Certification Policies from Cisco.
What Is the Total CCNP Certification Budget?
Here is a realistic budget breakdown for three different preparation approaches:
| Budget Category | Self-Study (Low) | Blended (Mid) | Full Training (High) |
| Core Exam Fee | $400 | $400 | $400 |
| Concentration Exam Fee | $300 | $300 | $300 |
| Study Materials | $50–$100 | $200–$500 | $500–$1,500 |
| Lab Access | $0 (free tools) | $49–$199 (cloud) | $500–$2,000 (physical) |
| Practice Exams | $30 | $60–$100 | $100 |
| Retake Buffer (optional) | $0 | $300–$400 | $300–$400 |
| Estimated Total | $780–$830 | $1,309–$1,899 | $2,100–$4,700 |
The sweet spot for most professionals is the blended approach: self-study with a good cert guide, an online course for the topics you find hardest, and a cloud-based lab for hands-on practice. That gets you fully prepared for around $1,300–$1,900 total.
Is CCNP Certification Worth the Cost?
Many networking professionals question whether the CCNP certification justifies its cost compared to other certification options. Here is why it remains a valuable investment.
Higher Salary and Career Growth
Earning a CCNP certification can lead to better job opportunities and higher salaries. Many organizations prioritize Cisco-certified professionals for network engineering roles.
| Experience Level | Average Annual Salary (US) |
| Entry-Level (1–3 years) | $70,000–$85,000 |
| Mid-Level (4–7 years) | $90,000–$110,000 |
| Senior-Level (8+ years) | $110,000–$150,000+ |
The average CCNP-certified salary in the United States is approximately $101,000–$111,000 per year, with top earners reaching $150,000 or more. CCNP Security specialists command a 10–15% premium over other tracks due to high demand for network security skills.
Salary by specialization:
| CCNP Track | Typical Salary Range |
| CCNP Enterprise | $85,000–$130,000 |
| CCNP Security | $95,000–$145,000 |
| CCNP Data Center | $90,000–$135,000 |
| CCNP Collaboration | $85,000–$125,000 |
| CCNP Service Provider | $90,000–$140,000 |
Professionals with CCNP plus cloud or security certifications can command even higher salaries.
Industry Recognition and Job Security
- CCNP is one of the most respected certifications in networking.
- Employers in IT services, banking, healthcare, and government sectors seek Cisco-certified engineers.
- Certified professionals have a higher chance of securing job promotions and leadership roles.
Pathway to Advanced Certifications
- CCNP is a prerequisite for CCIE (Cisco's highest certification).
- It opens doors to specialized certifications in network security, automation, and cloud computing.
Read more: The CCIE Security lab mirrors modern security hurdles, using Cisco's current security gear. Our guide breaks down the lab's layout, the gear involved (physical and virtual), the security zones, and how to approach implementing solutions within this environment.
How Can You Save Money on CCNP Certification?
Even though CCNP certification requires an investment, there are several cost-effective ways to prepare.
Use Free and Affordable Study Resources
- Cisco Learning Network offers free study materials and discussion forums.
- Online platforms (Udemy, YouTube, Pluralsight) provide budget-friendly courses.
- Join networking study groups to exchange knowledge with peers.
- Reddit communities (r/ccnp, r/cisco) share free study guides, lab configs, and exam tips.
Leverage Virtual Labs Instead of Buying Expensive Equipment
- Cisco Packet Tracer and GNS3 offer free practice environments.
- EVE-NG and CML (Cisco Modeling Labs) provide advanced network simulations. Further read: EVE-NG vs CML
- Cloud-based labs eliminate the need for costly physical hardware.
- Use a GNS3 VM in the cloud for full-topology labs without buying hardware.
Look for Exam Voucher Discounts
- Cisco and Pearson VUE occasionally offer promotional pricing on exam vouchers.
- Employer training budgets: many companies reimburse certification exam fees. Ask your manager or HR department.
- Military and veteran benefits: GI Bill and other programs may cover certification costs.
- Buy from authorized voucher resellers who may offer 10–15% discounts.
Schedule the Exam Only When Ready
- Take mock exams before attempting the real test.
- Use practice questions to improve time management and confidence.
- Ensure complete syllabus coverage to minimize the risk of failure and retake fees.
How Much Does CCNP Recertification Cost?
Your CCNP certification is valid for three years. After that, you need to recertify. Here are the options and their costs:
| Recertification Method | Cost | Notes |
| Pass a CCNP core exam | $400 | Renews all associate and professional certs |
| Pass any two professional concentration exams | $600 ($300 each) | Can be different tracks |
| Pass one CCIE lab exam | $1,600 | Also earns CCIE credential |
| Earn 80 Continuing Education (CE) credits | Varies ($0–$500+) | Mix of free and paid options |
The most cost-effective renewal strategy is earning CE credits through a combination of Cisco's free courses, attending Cisco Live sessions, and authoring technical content. Many professionals accumulate enough free credits to renew without spending anything beyond the initial certification cost.
For full details, check the Cisco Recertification Policy and the Exam, Testing, and Certification Policies from Cisco.
Should You Invest in CCNP Certification?
The CCNP certification cost includes exam fees, training materials, and hands-on lab access. While the upfront investment might seem high, the long-term career benefits make it worthwhile.
- Expand Your Opportunities: Gain expertise in networking, security, and cloud computing.
- Increase Your Earning Potential: Higher salaries and better job security in a competitive IT landscape. CCNP holders earn $20,000–$40,000 more annually than non-certified peers.
- Advance Your Career: Use CCNP as a foundation for CCIE or cloud networking certifications.
For most network engineers, the $700–$1,900 investment pays for itself within the first year through salary gains, new job opportunities, and career advancement.
Maximize Your Learning with CloudMyLab
Instead of expensive physical labs, leverage cloud-based lab solutions for hands-on CCNP training. CloudMyLab offers cloud-based lab solutions, access to virtual networking environments, real-world scenarios, and guided labs, without the high cost of hardware.
Whether you are preparing for CCNP Enterprise, Security, or Data Center, CloudMyLab supports every specialization with scalable, on-demand lab environments. Start your free trial and get hands-on practice today.
Other useful links:
FAQs on CCNP Exam Cost and Certification
What is the total cost of obtaining the CCNP certification?
The total cost for the CCNP certification is $700 for exam fees, which includes:
- Core Exam (Mandatory) ~ $400
- Concentration Exam (Specialization) ~ $300
You should budget for study materials ($100–$1,500), hands-on labs ($0–$2,000 depending on approach), and potential retake fees ($300–$400 per exam). CloudMyLab offers a cost-effective alternative to physical labs, reducing your expenses.
Are there any hidden costs beyond the exam fees?
Yes, beyond the exam fees, candidates may incur expenses for:
- Study materials (Cisco books, online courses, and practice exams).
- Hands-on labs (Physical Cisco devices or virtual simulators like GNS3 and EVE-NG).
- Training courses (Instructor-led training may cost between $500–$1,500).
- Retake fees (If an exam is failed, full exam costs apply for retakes).
Can I self-study for the CCNP exams instead of paying for training?
Yes, self-study is feasible using resources like Cisco Learning Network, Udemy, and CloudMyLab virtual labs. While instructor-led training accelerates learning, self-study with virtual labs on CloudMyLab can save you money and provide practical experience.
What happens if you fail a CCNP exam?
If you fail a CCNP exam, you must wait 5 calendar days before retaking it. There is no limit on the number of attempts, but each attempt requires full payment of the exam fee ($300 or $400 per exam).
How long is the CCNP certification valid?
Your CCNP certification is valid for three years. Maintain it by passing a Cisco recertification exam or earning continuing education credits (CE). Check the Exam, Testing, and Certification Policies and the Cisco Recertification Policy from Cisco.
Is CCNP harder than CCNA?
Yes, CCNP is significantly more advanced than CCNA, focusing on deeper networking concepts, real-world troubleshooting, and complex configurations. The CCNP covers:
- Deeper networking concepts (Enterprise networking, SD-WAN, network security).
- Practical, real-world troubleshooting scenarios.
- More complex configurations and hands-on skills.
CCNP candidates are expected to have prior networking experience or CCNA-level knowledge.
Do I need CCNA before taking the CCNP exams?
No, CCNA is not a prerequisite for CCNP. Cisco removed the CCNA requirement in 2020. However, having CCNA knowledge is highly recommended as CCNP builds upon CCNA concepts.
What is the best CCNP specialization to choose?
The best CCNP specialization depends on career goals:
- Enterprise (ENCOR + ENARSI): Best for general network engineers.
- Security (SCOR + SNCF): Ideal for cybersecurity professionals. Highest salary potential.
- Data Center (DCCOR + DCIT): Good for cloud and virtualization.
- Collaboration (CLCOR + CLICA): Best for VoIP and unified communications.
- Service Provider (SPCOR + SPRI): Recommended for ISP professionals.
CloudMyLab supports all specializations with tailored lab environments.
What is the average salary for CCNP-certified professionals?
CCNP-certified professionals in the United States typically earn between $90,000 and $150,000+ per year, depending on experience, location, and specialization:
| Experience Level | Average Annual Salary |
| Entry-Level (1–3 years) | $70,000–$85,000 |
| Mid-Level (4–7 years) | $90,000–$110,000 |
| Senior-Level (8+ years) | $110,000–$150,000+ |
CCNP Security specialists command the highest salaries, with a 10–15% premium over other tracks.
How long does it take to prepare for the CCNP exam?
Preparation time depends on experience:
- Experienced network engineers: 3 to 6 months.
- Beginners with CCNA-level knowledge: 6 to 12 months.
- Self-study learners may take longer, while structured training accelerates preparation.
CloudMyLab's structured labs and practice scenarios can accelerate your learning, regardless of your experience level.
How much does CCNP cost compared to CCNA?
CCNA costs $330 for a single exam. CCNP costs $700 for two exams ($400 core + $300 concentration). While CCNP costs roughly double what CCNA does, the salary increase typically ranges from $20,000–$40,000 per year, making the extra $370 a strong investment for career growth.
Can my employer pay for CCNP certification?
Many companies cover certification costs through training budgets or professional development programs. Ask your manager or HR department about reimbursement policies. Some employers pay exam fees upfront, while others reimburse after you pass. Government contractors and defense companies are especially likely to sponsor Cisco certifications.
