How Much Does AWS Solutions Architect Certification Cost? – Complete Guide by OpsNexa

The AWS Certified Solutions Architect certification is one of the most popular certifications in the cloud industry. It validates your ability to design and deploy scalable, highly available, and fault-tolerant systems on Amazon Web Services (AWS). If you’re considering pursuing this certification, you may be wondering, how much does the AWS Solutions Architect certification cost?

In this guide, we’ll break down the costs associated with the AWS Solutions Architect certification, including exam fees, study materials, and additional costs that could come up during your certification journey. We’ll also provide valuable insights into the certification process to help you make informed decisions about your investment in this career-boosting certification.

AWS Solutions Architect Certification Overview

Before diving into the costs, it’s important to understand what the AWS Solutions Architect certification entails. There are two main levels of the certification for AWS Solutions Architects:

• AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate

• AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional

Each level tests different levels of expertise, with the Associate exam being suitable for individuals who have hands-on experience with AWS cloud services and architecture design. The Professional exam, on the other hand, is for experienced architects who have advanced knowledge and skills in cloud architecture.

The AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate is a great starting point for those looking to begin their AWS certification journey. However, some professionals opt to pursue the Professional certification to showcase more advanced knowledge and expertise.

Exam Fees for AWS Solutions Architect Certification

The primary cost associated with AWS Solutions Architect certification is the exam fee. The fees vary depending on the level of certification you are pursuing. Here’s a breakdown of the exam costs:

1. AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate Exam Fee

The exam fee for the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate is $150 USD. This exam is ideal for professionals with some hands-on experience with AWS and cloud architecture.

The exam consists of 65 questions and must be completed in 130 minutes. This certification is generally considered more accessible for individuals who are just starting their career in AWS architecture.

2. AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional Exam Fee

The exam fee for the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional is $300 USD. This exam is designed for individuals with significant experience in AWS and cloud architecture. It is more challenging than the Associate-level exam, requiring a deep understanding of AWS services and best practices.

The Professional-level exam consists of 75 questions and must be completed in 180 minutes. This exam is ideal for senior cloud architects or professionals who are looking to demonstrate their expertise in designing complex, high-scale architectures on AWS.

Both exams are proctored and can be taken online or at a testing center, depending on your preference.

Additional Costs to Consider for AWS Solutions Architect Certification

While the exam fees are the main costs associated with obtaining the AWS Solutions Architect certification, there are additional expenses that can arise during your preparation journey. These costs are optional, but they can be beneficial in helping you pass the exam and gain a deeper understanding of the AWS platform.

1. Study Materials

To pass the AWS Solutions Architect certification exams, you’ll need to prepare thoroughly. There are various study materials available, ranging from books and online courses to practice exams and training sessions. Here’s an overview of some of the most common study materials and their costs:

• AWS Training and Certification: AWS offers free digital training courses, but they also provide paid instructor-led training for more in-depth learning. The cost of instructor-led training typically ranges from $600 to $3,000 USD, depending on the course.

• AWS Exam Readiness Workshops: AWS provides exam readiness workshops that help you prepare for the certification exam. These workshops are available at a price of approximately $300 USD.

• Books: There are many study guides and books dedicated to preparing for the AWS Solutions Architect exams. Popular books such as “AWS Certified Solutions Architect Official Study Guide” typically cost between $30 to $60 USD.

• Online Courses: Numerous online learning platforms offer courses specifically tailored to the AWS Solutions Architect exams. Websites like A Cloud Guru, Linux Academy, and Udemy offer courses ranging from $20 to $300 USD. For example, A Cloud Guru provides a comprehensive course that includes video lessons, quizzes, and hands-on labs.

• Practice Exams: Practice exams are essential to gauge your readiness for the real exam. AWS offers official practice exams for both the Associate and Professional exams. These practice exams typically cost $20 to $40 USD. Many third-party platforms also provide practice exams at similar or slightly lower prices.

2. AWS Free Tier for Hands-on Practice

While the AWS Free Tier is not a direct cost, it’s a valuable resource for hands-on practice and learning. The AWS Free Tier provides limited free access to a range of AWS services, allowing you to practice and experiment with AWS technologies without incurring significant charges. However, be mindful of the usage limits, as exceeding these limits could lead to additional charges.

3. Test Retake Fees

If you do not pass the AWS Solutions Architect exam on your first attempt, you’ll need to pay the exam fee again to retake the exam. The retake policy states that you must wait 14 days before retaking the exam. Each retake will cost you the same as the initial exam fee, which is $150 USD for the Associate exam and $300 USD for the Professional exam.

4. AWS Certification Prep Bootcamps

For those who prefer a more structured approach, AWS certification bootcamps are available. These bootcamps typically cost between $500 to $3,000 USD, depending on the provider and duration of the bootcamp. They are immersive training experiences that can significantly speed up your preparation.

Discounts and Vouchers for AWS Certification

AWS occasionally offers discounts and promotions for certification exams. If you’re looking for ways to reduce the cost, here are some potential ways to save:

1. AWS Training Discounts

AWS sometimes provides discounts for bundled training courses or special promotions for exam readiness workshops. Keep an eye on the AWS Training and Certification website for any available offers.

2. AWS Certification Voucher Programs

AWS occasionally provides certification vouchers for discounts on exam fees. You may be able to obtain these vouchers through promotions, AWS events, or by purchasing specific training packages.

3. Group Discounts

Some organizations offer group discounts on AWS certification exams for employees. If you’re part of a company with a large number of AWS-certified professionals, you might be eligible for discounts on exam fees.

The ROI of AWS Solutions Architect Certification

Now that you know the cost breakdown for obtaining the AWS Solutions Architect certification, you may be wondering if it’s worth the investment. The short answer is yes—the return on investment (ROI) for AWS Solutions Architect certification is substantial.

1. High Earning Potential

Certified AWS Solutions Architects are in high demand, and they tend to earn higher salaries compared to their non-certified counterparts. According to the 2020 Global Knowledge IT Skills and Salary Report, AWS-certified professionals earn an average of $130,000 USD per year. This makes the investment in certification well worth it.

2. Career Advancement

AWS certification opens up a wide range of career opportunities. As companies continue to migrate to the cloud, the demand for skilled professionals who can design, deploy, and manage cloud architectures is growing rapidly. By obtaining AWS Solutions Architect certification, you can position yourself for promotions, job offers, and higher-level roles in cloud architecture.

3. Recognition and Credibility

AWS certification is globally recognized and respected in the tech industry. By earning this certification, you gain credibility and recognition as a proficient cloud architect, which can enhance your reputation within the industry.

Final Thoughts: Is AWS Solutions Architect Certification Worth the Cost?

The AWS Certified Solutions Architect certification is an investment in your career and future. While the exam fees for the Associate and Professional levels are significant, the potential benefits far outweigh the costs. Not only will this certification provide you with a valuable skill set, but it will also open doors to higher-paying job opportunities and career advancement.

When considering the cost, take into account the training materials, practice exams, and study resources that will help you pass the exam. The potential for a higher salary and greater job opportunities makes the investment in AWS certification well worth it. With careful preparation and the right resources, you can confidently obtain your certification and take your career to the next level.

At OpsNexa, we recommend you start with the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate exam and gradually move towards the Professional exam if you’re looking to deepen your expertise. With thorough preparation and strategic planning, you’ll be able to leverage your AWS certification to unlock new career opportunities.