If you’re considering a career in IT service management (ITSM), you’ve likely heard of ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) certification. It is one of the most recognized credentials in the IT industry, offering professionals the skills needed to optimize IT services and improve business outcomes. But with various levels of certification available, you might be wondering how much ITIL certification cost?
Understanding the costs associated with ITIL certification is crucial for anyone planning to invest in this career-boosting credential. In this guide, we will explore the breakdown of ITIL certification fees, factors influencing the costs, and how to get the most value for your money. Whether you’re aiming for the ITIL Foundation or setting your sights on the ITIL Master Level, we’ve got all the information you need to make an informed financial decision.
What Is ITIL Certification❓
Before diving into the cost of ITIL certification, let’s quickly define what ITIL is and why it is so valuable in the IT industry.
ITIL, Information Technology Infrastructure Library, is a set of best practices for delivering IT services. It provides a comprehensive framework for managing IT services across various industries, helping businesses optimize their processes, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction. Whether you’re working in IT operation, service management, or support, ITIL certification demonstrates your ability to apply these best practices and improve IT service delivery.
There are several levels of ITIL certification, catering to different career stages and goals.
➯ITIL Foundation
This level certification covers the basics of ITIL and is perfect for those new to IT service management. It is the most affordable option, offering foundational knowledge without requiring prior experience.
➯ITIL Intermediate
This level is split into two streams: Service Lifecycle and Service Capability. It is designed for those looking to specialize and gain a deeper understanding of ITIL practices. The cost of ITIL Intermediate certifications will vary depending on the module you choose.
➯ITIL Expert
Aimed at professionals who want to demonstrate knowledge, this level requires a combination of intermediate certifications. It is one of the more expensive certifications due to its comprehensive nature.
➯ITIL Master
The highest level of ITIL certification, ITIL Master, demonstrates expert-level skills and understanding of ITIL principles. This is a prestigious certification that can take time to achieve and comes with a significant cost.
Read More: Your Guide to ITIL Certification: Everything You Need to Know
📊 Factors Affecting ITIL Certification Cost
The cost of ITIL certification can vary significantly depending on several factors. While the certification itself is a valuable investment, understanding the elements that influence the overall cost will help you make a more informed decision. Let’s break down the key factors that impact the cost of ITIL certifications.
➢ Certification Level
The level of ITIL certification you’re pursuing will have the biggest impact on cost. For example, the ITIL Foundation certification is the least expensive while advanced certifications like ITIL Expert and ITIL Master come with higher fees due to the depth of training and exams involved.
➢ Training Provider
The cost of ITIL training can vary depending on the provider you choose. Accredited training organizations, online platforms, and in-person training sessions each come with varying price tags. Some well-known providers include Axelos and PeopleCert. Prices for online training are often more affordable. However, instructor-led courses may offer more personalized support at a higher cost.
➢ Location
ITIL certification costs can also differ based on your location. For example, in some countries, certification programs may be more expensive due to pricing, taxes, or the cost of living. Additionally, the availability of training providers and exam centers can influence costs. Typically, ITIL certifications in the US or UK may be more expensive compared to countries with lower training fees like India.
➢ Exam Fees
Another significant factor is the ITIL exam fees. Exam fees vary by certification level and location. For instance, the cost to take the ITIL Foundation exam might be lower than that of the ITIL Expert exam due to the complexity and depth of the content. Some providers bundle exam fees into their training packages while others may charge separately for the exam itself.
➢ Study Materials and Additional Costs
While not always mandatory, many candidates choose to purchase additional study materials such as books, practice exams, or online courses from platforms like Coursera or Udemy to help them prepare better for their ITIL exams. These materials can add to the overall cost of certification so it is important to factor them into your budget.
➢ Retake Fees
If you don’t pass the exam on the first attempt, you may need to pay retake fees. These fees can add up so it is a good idea to thoroughly prepare for your exam to avoid additional costs.
💸 How Much Does ITIL Certification Cost? Pricing Breakdown
One of the most important aspects of understanding ITIL certification costs is knowing the specific fees associated with each level. Here is a detailed breakdown of the costs for each ITIL certification level, from the entry-level ITIL Foundation to the advanced ITIL Master certification.
1️⃣. ITIL Foundation
The ITIL Foundation certification is the starting point for anyone new to IT service management. It covers the basic principles of ITIL and provides a solid understanding of the ITIL framework. This is the most affordable certification level but costs can still vary depending on the training provider and location.
👨🏫 Training Costs
Typically ranges from $500 to $1,400 USD. The price varies based on whether you choose online or in-person training. Online courses tend to be more affordable while instructor-led sessions are usually more expensive.
📝 Exam Fees
The ITIL Foundation exam usually costs between $314 to $400 USD depending on the provider and location. Some providers include the exam fee in the training package while others charge separately.
♻️ Certification Renewal Cost
In order to renew your ITIL Foundation certification, you can expect to pay a renewal cost of $289 USD.
Total Cost
ITIL 4 Foundation Certification may cost anywhere from $350 to $1,400 USD for both training and exam fees.
2️⃣. ITIL Managing Professional
The ITIL Managing Professional (ITIL MP) is targeted at individuals within the ITSM industry looking to gain practical and technical knowledge of different aspects of the IT service industries. The ITIL MP is a module containing 4 different streams, each one specializing in a different area of the same industry. The total overall cost for each certification within this module varies.
👨🏫 Training Cost
The training cost for the ITIL Managing Professional is $800 to $1,600 USD depending on the specific module. Each module focuses on different aspects of ITIL and prices can vary based on the depth and the complexity of the material.
📝 Exam Fees
The exam fee for each module within ITIL MP typically ranges from $300 to $600 USD.
Total Cost
The total estimated cost for the ITIL 4 Managing Professional is $800 to $1,600 for both training and exam fees.
3️⃣. ITIL Strategic Leader
Similar to ITIL MP, the ITIL Strategic Leader (ITIL SL) also includes two different streams that professionals need to complete in order to obtain this designation. Obtaining the ITIL SL equips their holder with a comprehensive knowledge of the application of IT within the service industry and its importance and incorporation within business strategy.
This level is suited for those looking to pursue higher roles in IT service management such as service manager or process manager.
👨🏫 Training Cost
The cost of the ITIL Expert can range from $1,000 to $2,000 USD, depending on the number of intermediate modules required.
📝 Exam Fees
Depending on the training provider, the exam fee for the Expert Level can range from $400 to $800 USD.
Total Cost
The cost of ITIL Strategic Leader is an estimated $3,500 to $6,800 USD for both training and exams. It is important to note that this reflects only the cost of this level in particular and does not incorporate the cost of any prerequisite certifications.
4️⃣. ITIL Extension Modules
A new addition to ITIL 4, the extension modules act as supplementary branches of the main ITIL 4 framework, focusing on the impact of emerging technologies, themes, and challenges within the ITSM industry and how to harness them to achieve their full potential. This steam covers 4 different modules, each targeting different areas like sustainability within IT, acquisition and management of cloud services, management of business relationships, and effective asset management within the IT space.
👨🏫 Training Fees
The training cost for each extension module may vary slightly but typically falls into the range of $950 to $2,500 USD depending on your training provider and location.
📝 Exam Cost
A lot of training packages are inclusive of the cost of exam vouchers. However, if bought separately, the exam for each module may cost anywhere from $400 to $700 USD.
Total Cost
Incorporating all the different costs involved, the extension module may cost you anywhere from
$1,000 to $3,000 USD.
5️⃣. ITIL Practice Manager
The ITIL Practice Manager focuses on the more practical areas of the ITIL 4 framework. Currently, there are 15 different types of practices available which can either be taken as a one-day training or in combination with practical assignments of a 3-day training course.
In order to obtain the ITIL 4 Practice Manager credential, professionals are required to complete 5 individual practices in addition to the ITIL Specialist: Create, Deliver, and Support module.
👨🏫 Training Fees
If taken separately, the cost of each individual course is estimated to be anywhere from $500 to $2,000 USD. This heavily depends on the training provider you choose to opt for. If taken as a bundle, the training fees for your ITIL Practice Manager preparation may be significantly more.
📝 Exam Fees
Just like the other ITIL modules, the exam cost is likely to be included in your training from the chosen accredited provider. However, the exam cost may be anywhere from $200 to $500 USD.
Total Cost
The total estimated cost to obtain the ITIL Practice Manager designation (completion of 3 modules) may be anywhere from
$1,500 to $2,000 USD.
6️⃣. ITIL Master
The ITIL Master certification is the highest level of certification intended for individuals who have mastered ITIL principles and are capable of applying them to real-world scenarios. The path to earning the ITIL Master certification is more extensive and requires practical experience.
👨🏫 Training Fees
The training fees for ITIL Master are highly variable, depending on the individual’s previous certification and experience. The cost can range from $2,500 to $5,000 USD for preparatory courses.
Candidates are to make a work-based assignment that is reviewed.
Total Cost
Due to the extensive nature of this level, the total cost for ITIL Master certification is typically between
$2,500 to $5,000 USD.
Summary Of ITIL Certification Cost
With all the different levels within the ITIL 4 certification tier structure, the cost for each can be a bit confusing. To make it easier for you, here is a more simplified breakdown of ITIL 4 certification cost.
ITIL 4 Certification Name | Level | Cost (USD) |
Foundation | $350 – $1,400 | |
ITIL 4 Managing Professional Certifications | ||
Intermediate | $800 – $1,600 | |
Intermediate | $700 – $1,600 | |
Intermediate | $700 – $1,600 | |
Intermediate | $700 – $1,600 | |
ITIL 4 Strategic Leader Certifications | ||
Intermediate | $700 – $1,600 | |
Intermediate | $900 – $2,000 | |
ITIL 4 Extension Module Certifications | ||
Intermediate | $1,250 – $2,500 | |
Intermediate | $950 – $2,000 | |
Intermediate | $1,100 – $2,500 | |
Intermediate | $950 – $2,500 | |
ITIL 4 Practice Manager Certifications | ||
ITIL 4 Specialist: Monitor, Support and Fulfil | ||
Advanced | $500 – $2,000 | |
ITIL 4 Specialist: Plan, Implement And Control | ||
Advanced | $600 – $2,000 | |
ITIL 4 Specialist: Collaborate, Assure and Improve | ||
Advanced | $600 – $2,000 | |
Explore Further: How To Get ITIL Certification: Tips And Strategies
How To Save On ITIL Certification Cost
While ITIL certification is a valuable investment in your career, there are several ways to reduce the overall costs. Here are some effective strategies to save on your ITIL certification fees while still ensuring a quality preparation and exam experience.
i) Opt For Online Training
One of the most effective ways to save on ITIL certification costs is by choosing online training. Online courses are often more affordable than in-person training and they provide the flexibility to study at your own pace. Many online platforms also offer bundle deals that include training and exam fees at a reduced rate. Popular platforms like Axelos, PeopleCert, and Udemy offer discounted rates for their ITIL Foundation or Intermediate courses, especially during seasonal sales.
ii) Take Advantage Of Group Discounts
Many training providers offer group discounts for corporate training or bulk course purchases. If your employer is sponsoring your certification or you can organize a group of colleagues, you may be able to secure a discount. It is worth checking with providers if they offer any group-based savings.
iii) Look For Promotional Offers
Training providers sometimes run promotions or flash sales that offer reduced prices for courses or exam vouchers. These limited-time offers can help you save up to 20% or more on training fees. To stay informed, subscribe to newsletters from well-known training organizations or follow them on social media.
iv) Use Free Study Resources
While study materials like textbooks and training can add up, there are different free resources available online that can help you prepare for your ITIL exam online without additional costs. Websites like YouTube, ITIL Forums, and even LinkedIn groups often provide free video tutorials, study material, and practice questions. Some free resources may not be as comprehensive as paid ones but they can certainly help supplement your preparation and reduce the need to purchase expensive study materials.
v) Consider Self Study
For those who are disciplined enough, self-study can be a great way to cut costs. You can find a variety of ITIL study materials and practice exams online at an affordable cost. However, this approach requires self-motivation and dedication to ensure you are fully prepared for the exam without the support of a formal class.
🌟 Is ITIL Certification Worth The Cost?
After learning about the various costs associated with ITIL certification, it is only natural to question whether it is worth the investment. ITIL may be worth it for many different reasons, especially if you are serious about advancing your career in IT service management. However, the value you derive from ITIL certification depends on your career goals, current skill sets, and long-term aspirations. Let’s explore why ITIL certification is considered a valuable asset for IT professionals.
🚀 Wider Job Opportunities At Your Disposal
ITIL certification is highly regarded by employers across industries. Whether you’re aiming to move up in your current job or seeking a new position, holding an ITIL certification on your resume can open the door to a wide range of opportunities. Many organizations prefer ITIL-certified professionals for roles like IT service managers, ITIL consultants, and IT operations managers.
- ITIL Foundation helps you get started in entry-level positions or IT support roles.
- ITIL Intermediate certifications can help you move into specialized roles.
- ITIL Expert and ITIL Master certifications can position you for leadership and senior management roles in IT service management.
💵 Chances Of Earning Competitive Salaries
The ITIL certification can have a direct impact on your earning potential. ITSM professionals with ITIL certifications tend to earn higher salaries. According to industry reports, ITIL-certified professionals can expect a significant salary boost, especially at the ITIL Expert or Master level. For example, ITIL-certified professionals in management or consultancy roles may earn anywhere from – to – depending on the job market and location.
📚 Improved Skillset and Knowledge
Achieving ITIL certification equips you with a strong understanding of industry best practices for service management. You will gain valuable skills in areas like Service lifecycle management, process improvement, incident and change management, IT governance, and compliance. These skills are transferrable across different industries making you a versatile professional capable of improving the efficiency and effectiveness of IT services in any organization.
🔓 Better Overall Job Security
As ITIL continues to be a globally recognized framework for ITSM, certified professionals are in high demand. Holding an ITIL certification helps ensure you stay competitive and adaptive in the dynamic job market. Employers recognize the value that certified professionals ring to the table making ITIL certification a key factor in job security.
There You Have It!
We’ve made it to the end! Throughout this article, we have covered the different levels involved in ITIL and what each level might cost you. While each level subsequently costs more, especially the hike in training and exam costs, it can be argued that your investment in ITIL certification pays off and is worth it!
Therefore, if you’re passionate about a career in the ITSM industry, ITIL is your ticket into this industry, and the benefits it reaps cover the cost you’re investing very quickly. ITSM skills and knowledge are highly in demand right now, hence, it may be the ideal time to get started!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
What is the average cost of ITIL 4 certification?
The cost of ITIL certification varies depending on the level you’re pursuing and the training options you select. On average, ITIL Foundation costs between $150 to $400 USD. ITIL Intermediate certifications range from $500 to $1,600 USD. Higher level ITIL certification exam can easily cost over $1,000 USD.
Are there any hidden costs with ITIL certification?
While the fees for exams and training are the main cost, there may be additional expenses. These could include study materials like books or practice exams, often priced from $50 to $200 USD. Retake fees will also need to be accounted for if you fail the exam. Be sure to factor in all these potential costs when planning your ITIL certification journey.
How can I reduce the cost of ITIL certification?
There are several ways to reduce costs including:
- Opting for online courses which are often more affordable than in-person training
- Looking for discounts or promotional offers from training providers
- Joining group courses to take advantage of group discounts
Is ITIL certification worth the investment?
Yes! ITIL certification is considered a worthwhile investment for IT professionals. It can significantly boost your career prospects, enhance your skillset, and increase your earning potential. Certified professionals often earn higher salaries, enjoy greater job security, and have access to more job opportunities.
Is the ITIL exam hard?
ITIL certification exams vary in terms of difficulty depending on the level of certification you are pursuing. Overall, ITIL exams are moderately hard since they require a thorough understanding of underlying concepts in order to pass the exam. However, with focused preparation and sufficient practice, you’ll likely be able to pass the exam.
