Today Microsoft announced an increase in for various Microsoft Certifications.
This is what the official announcement has to say:
Effective July 1, 2011, the retail price of Microsoft Certifications will increase worldwide.* This change reflects the significant value that our certifications provide to our customers and our continual investment in new and enhanced Microsoft Certifications and other program improvements.
Microsoft recognizes the increased pressures on students and academic institutions during these challenging economic times. Although some of the prices for Microsoft Certification exams for students and academic institutions will increase, the discount will remain significant. Microsoft is dedicated to helping students become more employable for entry jobs in the IT industry. IT Academy members, high school, college, or university students enrolled in a degree or diploma program will continue to receive a discount off the retail price of select Microsoft Certification exams.
Exam prices can vary by country or region. See the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) information below for more information regarding this change.
Use our pricing tool to determine your current and future Microsoft Certification exam prices. (requires Microsoft Silverlight)[This is pathetic, they are trying so hard to push silverlight :|]
Note Microsoft Learning does not anticipate that this price increase will impact Microsoft Certified Master (MCM), Microsoft Certified Architect (MCA), Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA), and Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Certification exams.
*Price change will be effective in India on August 1, 2011.
The prices in India are going to be USD 80 compared to the old price USD 50, this is 60% increase in the fees. So rush and take advantage of the low prices before 1st August 2011.
You can find the official announcement at : http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/certification/cert-pricing-FAQ.aspx