Cost Breakdown: How Much is the CEH Exam?

  • How much does the CEH exam cost?
  • Published by: André Hammer on Jan 30, 2024

Professionals who work in the cybersecurity sector care a lot about getting a CEH certification. But, it's important to think about the cost before you begin the journey. How much does it cost to sit the CEH exam, and what is the cost breakdown of related expenses? Understanding this breakdown can help individuals plan and budget. Let's look at the CEH exam fees for a clearer perspective of the financial commitment that goes with getting this certification.

Understanding the Significance of CEH Certification

What CEH Certification Entails

To get CEH certification, you need 2 years of infosec experience and complete formal training through an EC-Council partner. The exam costs about £950, plus extra for official training. Study materials like books and practice exams help you prepare. Some people also use review courses or workshops.

Why is CEH Important in Cyber Security

A CEH certification has the potential to enhance your career in the cyber security space. Having this certification shows that you thoroughly understand what ethical hacking techniques is all about, have good command of applicable tools, and this makes you, as a professional, more attractive to potential employers.

Additionally, with a CEH certification, you are guaranteed a higher salarie and a better opportunity advancement your career. Moreover, the knowledge that you gain from relevant CEH training equips you with the skills to identify and counter cyber security threats. A certified professional is well prepared to implement sound security measures that can safeguard assets against potential cyber attacks. This is possible because they understand the methods malicious hackers use to penetrate systems. This is particularly important for those in jobs that require them to secure critical infrastructure or sensitive information.

What is the Cost of the CEH Exam?

Breakdown of the CEH Exam Fee

The CEH exam fee includes the application, examination, and any study materials or resources you might want to buy. Set aside a budget for essential materials such as study guides or practice exams. There may also be other costs, such as retake charges, for those who will not pass the exam the first time as well as costs for renewing your membership.  

The charges for applying to sit the CEH exam often are the same as what you would pay as annual membership and extra fees. Signing up as an EC-Council member to can help you make important savings overall.

Additional Expenses Associated with the CEH Examination

The CEH examination comes with extra expenses. These often include the cost of materials that help you prepare for CEH such as practice exams, study guides and virtual classes. Budget well for these items so that you are not burdened unnecessarily when you make a commitment to sit for the CEH exam.

Additionally, travel and accommodation costs may be needed for those who have to take the exam at a non-local testing center. These extra expenses can greatly affect the total cost of pursuing CEH certification. Candidates should consider these costs when budgeting for the exam to avoid any financial surprises.

What are the Academic Requirements for CEH Certification?

Mandatory Training or Equivalent Educational Experience

People who want the CEH certification must do training through EC-Council or show two years of info security experience. The cost for the certification can change based on how the person qualifies. In-person training can be more expensive because of fees and travel, but self-paced options like online courses are cheaper. These materials have lower upfront costs and let people study around work and personal stuff.

The cost of getting the needed education for the CEH certification can be very different based on how someone trains for it.

Cost Implications of Meeting Educational Requirements

The cost of getting the CEH certification can vary. The exam itself costs 950-1200 GBP. Additional costs s include study materials, training courses, and practice exams, which in total could cost anywhere between 500 and 1000 GBP. Applying to sit the CEH exam typically costs between 100 and 150 GBP, while the exam fee is about 950-1200 GBP. To sign up as a member, you need between 85 and 120 GBP.

Different Training Options for CEH Candidates

EC-Council Official Training

The EC-Council have a range of choices for candidates: you can do some reading on your own, signup for the many online online courses, or join up for some good old-fashioned classroom learning.

The cost of the CEH exam typically includes charges for exam vouchers, and these vary by region or country.

Self-Paced Learning and How it Saves you Money

Self-paced learning in preparation for the CEH certification can help students cut down on costs. Unlike classroom training, self-paced learning let’s you work through your studies at a speed that is right for you. As such, you won’t have to incur travel, accommodations, and classroom costs.

As such, the total cost of preparing for CEH certification on your own learning is generally much more affordable and pocket-friendly. In addition, consider think about the value of the flexibility and freedom that come with you preparing on your own as well as the potential cost savings it brings.

Third-Party Training Providers and Comparing Costs

Third-party training providers offer different options for CEH certification. These can be online platforms, local centres, or independent instructors. The costs also vary from official EC-Council training. Candidates should consider study materials, practice exams, and potential retake fees. When comparing self-paced learning with third-party providers, candidates should think about the learning schedule flexibility, support level, and provider reputation.

Evaluating these against additional costs helps decide the best option for CEH certification.

Complementary Certifications to CEH: analysing Costs

CompTIA PenTest+ and its Place beside CEH

In cyber security, CompTIA’s PenTest+ and the CEH certification are highly regarded. CEH’s main focal point is penetration testing and ethical hacking. The PenTest+ goes a little further into the details of penetration testing process, including planning and scoping as well as conducting reconnaissance and analysing system weaknesses.

Having these two certifications shows you have attained the necessary skillset be a good ethical hacker. PenTest+ also adds unique skills in infrastructure and network testing, breaches, and social engineering in the ethical hacking industry. Both of these certifications can bring a career advantage, especially for those looking for a higher-level cyber security position such as that of a security analyst or consultant.

Other Ethical Hacking and Cyber Security Certifications

The cost of the CEH exam worries many candidates. The fee usually covers the exam and study materials like practice tests and e-books. But extra costs for training courses, membership fees, and retakes may apply. To save money, candidates can use free or low-cost online study resources like tutorials and practice exams. Some training providers offer discounts or financial aid, like special promotions, scholarships, or payment plans.

Candidates with educational or military affiliations may also get further discounts or funding. It's important to research and compare options for a successful and affordable exam experience.

Examination Application Process and Associated Fees

Cost of CEH Application

The CEH application costs £100. There are extra fees, such as a non-refundable £100 eligibility application fee and a £950 exam voucher. There is also a £50 membership application fee for EC-Council. Optional training courses and study materials can cost several hundred pounds. Expenses may vary based on the provider and location. In-person training may require additional travel and accommodation costs.

It's crucial to research and plan for these extra fees when considering the overall cost of obtaining the CEH certification.

Membership and Other Miscellaneous Fees

The cost of getting a CEH certification includes various fees. These consist of an exam fee and extra expenses like study materials and training courses. The exam fee breakdown usually covers the voucher cost, which can differ based on the test location and any available discounts. Additional costs may involve study guides, practice exams, and training courses to prepare for the exam, all of which can affect the total certification cost.

Additionally, CEH certification needs annual renewal fees to stay active. A certified person is also required to complete continuing education credits, and this may require you to spend a little more on training programs.

Assessing the Costs of CEH Retake and Renewals

CEH Retake Fee

The CEH retake fee differs from the initial exam fee. It's usually similar or slightly lower, depending on the certification provider.

Additional costs for retaking the CEH exam may include study materials, practice tests, and training courses. These costs vary based on individual needs and chosen resources.

Consider all potential costs before deciding to retake the exam. Some certifications offer retake packages with discounted study materials and additional resources.

Research and compare all available options before committing to a retake.

Renewal Fees and Continuing Education Costs

Renewal fees for CEH certification typically cost between £80 and £100. This will be paid every three years to keep the certification current.

Other than renewal fees, you will be expected to prove continuing education to maintain CEH certification and that might cost you around £300 to £500.

Other expenses related to the CEH examination could include purchase of study materials, signing up for training courses, and your exam fees, and these could total to around £1,199.

You should also consider that you may not pass the test the first time. This translates to you paying for a retake, as well as membership fees to professional organizations offering discounted rates on their training programs.

Do not forget to factor in travel expenses. This is important in instances where the examination center is not local. Think of this in addition to possible accommodation costs if the examination is at a location that would require you to spend a night away from the comfort of your home.

How Much Time Do You Require for CEH Certification?

Quantifying Time as Part of the Overall Cost

Prepping for a CEH exam requires a lot of time. You need time to review course materials, go through sample questions, and possibly, take preparation classes. This level of time commitment might affect your return on investment in a number of ways. For one, it takes your time away from other things that would possibly make you money and could keep you from using any new skills you acquire professionally. Quantifiably, studying for the CEH certification exam can be measured in hours spent studying, attending classes, and doing practice exercises.

Final thoughts

The cost of taking the CEH exam can vary. The exam fee is about £785. But, additional expenses like study materials and training courses can add up to several hundred pounds. So, the total cost can range from £1000 to £2000. If you are an aspiring professional, budget for these expenses as you prepare for the exam.

At Readynez, we offer a 5-day EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker Course and Certification Program. We also provide you with all the learning and support you need to prepare for your exam and certification. The CEH course, and all our other EC-Council courses, are also included in our unique Unlimited Security Training offer. We offer you the CEH and 60+ other Security courses for just €249 per month. We offer you the most flexible and affordable way to get your Security Certifications.

FAQ

What is the cost breakdown for sitting a CEH exam?

The following is the cost breakdown for sitting a CEH exam:

  • Exam voucher - $1199
  • ECC exam prep toolkit - $550
  • Training course (optional) - $850

So, the overall cost comes to $1749 (exam voucher + ECC exam prep toolkit) or $2599 (with training course).

Are there other CEH exam Costs?

Yes, a $100 charge that is non-refundable. This is the CEH exam application fee.

What options can I use to pay for the CEH exam?

Acceptable payment options include credit card, bank transfer, and voucher payment. We allow PayPal, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express for those who wish to pay with a credit card. Bank transfers can be arranged through the ECCouncil website. We also accept ECCouncil and Pearson VUE exam vouchers.

Do you offer discounts on payments for the CEH exam?

Yes, we offer discounts to students, military personnel, and government employees. Check the official EC-Council website for any current promotions or discounts.

Are there study materials included in the cost of the CEH exam?

No. study materials are not covered in the cost of the CEH exam. However, EC-Council offers training resources upon purchase of the exam to help you prepare.

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