CISSP Exam: How to Prepare Financially?

Mastering the field of cybersecurity with a CISSP certification goes beyond coding and threats. It’s also about outsmarting the financial maze accompanying the CISSP certification. Earning a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certificate will advance your career in cybersecurity.

When planning for CISSP Training and computing the CISSP Exam Cost, you should know how to tackle these expenses smoothly. All your efforts for the CISSP certification are your investment for the future. But how can you make sure this expenditure doesn’t blow the budget? Let’s discuss the expenses related to the CISSP test and offer feasible financial advice to prepare you.

Table of Content

Understanding the CISSP Exam Cost
Budgeting for CISSP Training
Financing Options and Scholarships
Hidden Costs to Consider
Practical Tips to Save Money
Conclusion

Understanding the CISSP Exam Cost

Let’s get a brief idea of the CISSP Exam cost before delving into budgeting techniques. The CISSP exam’s normal cost as of 2024 is roughly £585, but this may differ depending on the testing centre and your region. This price is a sizable upfront expense that calls for cautious planning to guarantee your financial readiness for the big test.

Still, financial considerations go past the exam cost. You should also budget for any fees for retaking the test or rescheduling, which can rapidly increase if not managed properly.

Budgeting for CISSP Training

CISSP Training is another important aspect to consider while budgeting for the exam. Whether you choose online courses, self-study materials, or in-person training sessions, training programs can range widely in cost. The following lists the usual expenses:

Study Materials: Books, practice tests and study guides can cost from £50 to £200.
Online Courses: These usually run between £300 and £1,000 depending on the provider and the course coverage.
In-Person Training: Usually costing between £1,500 to £3,000, classroom-based courses are the most expensive format.

It’s crucial to select a training method that suits your budget and learning. Some individuals believe that enrolling in a more costly course pays off over time by lowering the need to repeat the test.

Financing Options and Scholarships

Don’t worry if paying for the CISSP exam and training seems burdensome. Here are some options for financial support:

Employer Sponsorship: Many businesses understand the need for CISSP-certified staff members and are ready to pay for the training and exam fees. Discussing with your company can help you find out the feasibility of this option.
Payment Plans: Certain training courses let you divide the course’s cost over several months, easing the payments.
Scholarships: Many companies provide scholarships designed especially for those working in cybersecurity. For qualified individuals, these can pay for some or all of your CISSP exam and training expenses.

Hidden Costs to Consider

You may ignore some expenses while budgeting for your CISSP certification. Here are some typical costs involved:

Rescheduling Fees: Occasionally, you might have to postpone your exam. It usually costs between £50 and £100 for this.
Retake Fees: Everyone can’t pass the CISSP exam on their first attempt. Should you have to retake the test, you will have to pay the entire cost again. So, it’s a good idea to invest in quality training and study materials in the beginning itself.
Travel and Accommodation: If the nearest testing centre is far away from home, you may have to consider travel expenses. Especially when you go abroad, these can swiftly get out of hand.

If you prepare for these hidden costs in advance, you can face any situation and handle it smoothly.

Practical Tips to Save Money

There’s no need to empty your bank account getting ready for the CISSP test. These practical suggestions should help you cut down expenses:

Start Early: If you begin to start saving early, it will reduce the financial stress while paying for the exam and training. Save a little every month to fund your CISSP journey.
Use Free Resources: You can make use of the vast number of free resources available online, from practice questions to study groups. This can reduce the total expenses and support your paid training.
Group Discounts: Think about working out a discount with a training provider or booking a group course if you have contacts also appearing for the CISSP test. Generally, group fees are more reasonably priced than individual fees.
Second-Hand Study Materials: Search online or forums for second-hand study materials. Past candidates usually sell their books and study materials at a huge discount.

Conclusion

Getting ready for the CISSP test calls for careful financial planning. With a proper understanding of expenses and adequate planning, your journey to certification will be smooth. The financial investment you make today can pay off handsomely in the future, with the great scope CISSP certification offers. The Knowledge Academy can assist in your pursuit of CISSP certification with its comprehensive training courses within your budget.