Are you looking to validate your skills and knowledge in managing Salesforce applications? The Salesforce Administrator exam is a crucial step in achieving this goal. However, understanding the costs associated with taking this exam is essential for prospective candidates.
This guide will take you through the costs involved in taking the Salesforce Administrator exam and explore the value these certification can bring to your career.
Overview of Salesforce Administrator Exam
The Salesforce Certified Administrator exam is a foundational certification for professionals looking to validate their knowledge and skills in Salesforce administration. It is also known as the ADM-201 exam, consists of 60 multiple-choice questions and 5 non-scored questions.
Candidates are allotted 105 minutes to complete the exam. To pass, a candidate must achieve a score of 65%, which means correctly answering at least 39 out of 60 questions.
The exam can be taken either at a designated testing center or online, providing flexibility for candidates. There are no prerequisites for taking the exam, although it is recommended that candidates have some hands-on experience with Salesforce.
Salesforce Administrator Exam Costs
The registration fee for the Salesforce Certified Administrator exam is $200. This amount is subject to applicable local taxes, which can vary based on the candidate’s location.
For example, if a candidate is in a region with an 18% tax rate, the total cost would be approximately $236.
Retake Fees
If a candidate does not pass the Salesforce Certified Administrator exam on their first attempt, they have the option to retake it. The retake fee is $100, which is half of the original exam cost of $200.
This reduced fee applies specifically to the retake of the same exam, allowing candidates to attempt the certification again at a lower financial burden.
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Salesforce Administrator Exam Retake Policies and Costs
Cost Structure
The retake fee of $100 is significantly lower than the initial registration fee, making it more accessible for candidates who need to retake the exam. This structure encourages candidates to try again without facing the full cost of the exam.
Eligibility for Retake
Candidates are eligible to retake the exam if they do not achieve the passing score of 65% on their first attempt. It’s important to note that this retake fee applies only to the same exam; candidates wishing to pursue a different certification will need to pay the full registration fee for that exam.
Limitations on Retakes
Salesforce has specific policies regarding retakes. Candidates must wait at least 14 days before retaking the exam. This waiting period allows candidates time to prepare and improve their understanding of the material before attempting the exam again.
Registration Process for Retakes
Candidates can register for a retake through the Salesforce certification portal, similar to the initial registration process. They will need to select the exam they wish to retake and pay the reduced fee.
Effective Way To Pass Salesforce Administrator Exam and Avoid Retake.
The most effective and commonly used approach to passing the Salesforce Administrator exam is to utilize the “Pay someone to take my Salesforce Administrator exam” service. This service offers candidates the opportunity to pass the test on their first attempt without extensive studying.
By delegating the exam to an expert who understands all the intricacies of Salesforce, candidates can relax while the expert tackles the test. Many students have successfully used this approach, which guarantees good grades.
Payment Methods for the Salesforce Administrator Exam
Major Credit Cards
Candidates can pay for the Salesforce Certified Administrator exam using major credit cards. Accepted credit card types include:
- Visa
- Mastercard
- American Express
- Discover
When registering for the exam through the Salesforce certification portal (Webassessor), candidates will be prompted to enter their credit card details to complete the payment process.
It is advisable for candidates to ensure that their credit card is enabled for international transactions, as Salesforce is a global entity, and payment processing may occur outside the candidate’s home country.
Certification Vouchers
In addition to credit card payments, some organizations may offer vouchers for certification exams. These vouchers can be purchased in bulk or provided as part of training programs and can be used to cover the registration fee for the Salesforce Certified Administrator exam.
Availability
Vouchers are often available through authorized Salesforce training partners or educational institutions that offer Salesforce training programs. Candidates should inquire with their training provider about the availability of vouchers.
Redemption
When registering for the exam, candidates can enter the voucher code during the payment process to apply the voucher towards the exam fee. This can significantly reduce the out-of-pocket cost for candidates.
Validity
It is important for candidates to check the expiration date and terms of use associated with the vouchers, as they may have specific conditions that need to be met.
Payment Process
The payment process for the Salesforce Certified Administrator exam is straightforward:
- Create a Webassessor Account: Candidates must first create an account on the Salesforce Webassessor platform, which is the official site for managing Salesforce certification registrations.
- Select the Exam: After logging in, candidates can choose the Salesforce Certified Administrator exam from the list of available certifications.
- Schedule the Exam: Candidates will select a date and time for the exam, either online or at a testing center.
- Payment: At the final step, candidates will be prompted to enter their payment details. This is where they can provide credit card information or enter a voucher code if applicable.
- Confirmation: Upon successful payment, candidates will receive a confirmation email with details about their exam registration.
Important Considerations
- International Transactions: Candidates using credit cards should ensure that their card is enabled for international transactions. Some banks may block transactions that they deem suspicious, so it’s wise to notify the bank ahead of time.
- Email Confirmation: After completing the payment and registration, candidates should keep an eye out for an email confirmation. This email will contain important information about the exam, including the date, time, and any specific instructions.
- Refund Policy: Candidates should be aware of Salesforce’s refund policy in case they need to cancel or reschedule their exam. Typically, there may be a window within which candidates can receive a refund or reschedule without incurring additional fees.
Exam Preparation Costs
Exam preparation involves several costs beyond just the registration fee. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the various expenses candidates should anticipate while preparing for exams, particularly in the context of certifications like those offered by Salesforce.
Study Materials
Candidates often invest in various study materials to enhance their preparation. These can include:
- Books: Textbooks and guides specific to the exam can range from free resources to several hundred dollars, depending on the depth and quality of the material.
- Online Courses: Many candidates opt for online courses that provide structured learning paths. Costs for these courses can vary widely, typically ranging from $50 to $500 or more, depending on the provider and the comprehensiveness of the course.
- Practice Exams: Taking practice exams is a common strategy to gauge readiness. These can cost between $20 and $50 each, providing candidates with a feel for the actual exam format and types of questions they may encounter.
Check out: How Many People Pass the Salesforce Admin Exam Online?
Training Courses
Formal training programs are another significant expense. These courses are often provided by organizations like Salesforce or authorized training centers. The costs can vary based on several factors:
- Course Length and Content: Training programs can range from short workshops to extensive multi-week courses. Prices typically range from $200 to $3,000, reflecting the duration and depth of the training provided.
- Certification Focus: Courses tailored for specific certifications or skill sets may command higher fees, especially if they include hands-on training or access to exclusive resources.
Discounts and Financial Assistance
Salesforce offers a 50% discount on certification exam vouchers for full-time employees of registered non-profit organizations. To receive the discount code, email [email protected] from your non-profit email account. The code is valid for up to five exams and cannot be shared with others.
Student and Military Discounts
Salesforce also provides discounts for students and military veterans. To receive the special discount code, email [email protected] from your higher education email account.
Bulk Purchase Discounts
Organizations that purchase multiple exam vouchers may qualify for bulk purchase discounts. The exact discount percentage depends on the number of vouchers purchased.
Certification Days and Salesforce Events
Certification Days, organized by the Salesforce Trailblazer Community, often provide discounts and coupons to participants. Additionally, in-person Salesforce events sometimes include exam vouchers in the registration fee.
Exam Preparation Bundles
Focus on Force offers a certification bundle that includes practice exams, study guides, and a Salesforce certification voucher at a discounted price compared to purchasing the items separately.
By taking advantage of these discounts and financial assistance options, candidates can reduce the overall cost of pursuing Salesforce certifications.
How Can Students Apply for Salesforce Certification Discounts
Students can apply for Salesforce certification discounts through various channels.
Certification Day Discounts
Students attending Certification Days, organized by the Salesforce Trailblazer Community, can receive a discount coupon. Participants get a $70 discount off any exam that costs $200. To take advantage of this, students need to register for and attend the Certification Day webinar.
Email Requests for Discounts
Students can also reach out directly to Salesforce for discounts. By emailing [email protected] from their school email address, students may be eligible for specific student discounts. This approach is similar to how non-profit employees request their discounts.
Salesforce Events
Participating in Salesforce events can also yield discounts. Many in-person events include exam vouchers as part of the registration fee. Students should keep an eye on local Salesforce Community Group meetings, as these often provide opportunities for discounts or giveaways of exam vouchers.
Focus on Force Bundles
For students looking for comprehensive preparation, Focus on Force offers bundles that include practice exams, study guides, and certification vouchers at a discounted rate compared to purchasing items separately. This can be a cost-effective way to prepare while securing a voucher.
By utilizing these resources, students can significantly reduce the costs associated with obtaining Salesforce certifications.
Continue Reading: Can You Take the Salesforce Admin Exam Online?
FAQS
How Much Does the Salesforce Administrator Exam Cost?
The Salesforce Certified Administrator exam costs $200, plus applicable local taxes. For example, with an 18% tax rate, the total would be approximately $236. If you need to retake the exam, the fee is half the original cost, making it $100 plus taxes.
Is Salesforce Admin Exam Free?
The Salesforce Administrator exam is not free; it costs $200, in addition to any applicable local taxes. However, there are free practice exams available online to help candidates prepare for the certification.
These practice tests simulate the actual exam format and provide valuable feedback on performance, but the official exam itself requires payment.
Is Salesforce Certified Administrator Exam Hard?
The Salesforce Certified Administrator exam is considered challenging, requiring a passing score of 65% or higher. Success depends on factors like prior experience, study resources, and preparation time. While some find it manageable with dedicated study, others may struggle, especially if they lack familiarity with Salesforce concepts.
In such cases, candidates are advised to seek online exam help services. These services provide access to Salesforce experts who can take the exam on their behalf, ensuring a score of 80% or higher. This is considered the most effective approach to passing the exam.
What Is the Pass Rate for the Salesforce Admin Exam?
The pass rate for the Salesforce Certified Administrator exam requires candidates to achieve a score of at least 65%, which means answering 39 out of 60 questions correctly.
While the specific overall pass rate is not publicly disclosed, many candidates find the exam challenging and emphasize the importance of seeking Salesforce online exam help services to succeed.