Is Amazon AWS Certification Free?

A common question in the tech community is whether Amazon's AWS certification exams are free. While AWS offers valuable training and resources, there are fees associated with obtaining certification. In this article, we will explore the costs and availability of AWS training and certification exams.

Free AWS Training Resources

AWS Training and Certification hosts numerous free training events, both online and in-person. These events are designed to help individuals build a foundational understanding of the AWS Cloud or dive deeper into specific technical areas. Participants can attend sessions led by AWS experts to enhance their knowledge and skills.

Here are some examples of free AWS training events:

Online Live Webinars: AWS regularly conducts live webinars on various topics, providing insights into the latest cloud technologies and best practices. Workshops: In-person workshops allow participants to engage in hands-on learning and practice using AWS services. Workshops and Webinars for Students: AWS partners with academic institutions to offer special programs and training sessions for students.

Attending these free training events can be a great way to get started in the AWS ecosystem without any upfront costs. These resources are particularly useful for those who are new to cloud computing or want to refresh their knowledge.

Cost of AWS Certification Exams

While the training and resources are free, the actual certification exams come with a cost. Candidates are required to pay an exam fee when registering for AWS certification exams. The cost varies depending on the specific certification level and the type of exam.

AWS offers a range of certifications to cater to different skill levels and areas of expertise, including:

Foundational Associate: For individuals with a basic understanding of the AWS Cloud. Professional: For individuals with more advanced cloud knowledge. Specialty: For experts in specific cloud technologies like Database, Security, or Serverless.

Here are the approximate cost ranges for different AWS certification exams:

Cloud Practitioner: Around $100 USD Associate Level: Around $150 USD (e.g., AWS Certified Solutions Architect) Professional Level: Around $300 USD (e.g., AWS Certified Developer) Specialty Level: Around $300 USD (e.g., AWS Certified Security Specialty)

It's important to note that these costs can vary based on the country where the exam is being taken. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with study materials, training courses, and practice exams. However, some employers may offer to pay these costs as part of their employee development programs.

Value of AWS Certification

While the certification exams are not free, the benefits they offer can outweigh the costs. AWS certification is highly valuable for several reasons:

Enhanced Skills: A certification validates your knowledge and skills in AWS cloud technologies, making you a more competitive candidate in the job market. Increased Employability: Many companies prefer candidates with AWS certification, as it indicates a professional commitment to learning and staying up-to-date with cloud technology. Salary Increase: AWS-certified professionals often command higher salaries and better employment opportunities. Career Advancement: Certification can serve as a stepping stone for career advancement, helping you take on more complex roles.

While certification is not mandatory to work with AWS, it can significantly enhance your career prospects and provide a competitive edge in the job market.

Where to Find More Information

To learn more about AWS certifications, you can visit IT Certificate .Org. This site provides detailed information about available certifications, exam fees, and other resources to help you prepare for the exams.

Additionally, AWS offers an official certification website where you can find comprehensive guides, practice exams, and other study materials:

AWS Training AWS Certification

By leveraging these resources, you can make an informed decision about whether obtaining AWS certification is right for you.