One of the first things you’ll probably want to know if you’re thinking about taking the PL-300: Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst certification is How much does PL-300 cost. Planning and budgeting for your certification journey requires an understanding of the test and preparatory material pricing structures.

The real PL-300 exam fee, other study-related costs, and advice on how to maximize your investment will all be included in this post. Understanding the entire cost of PL-300 can help you make wise judgments, regardless of whether you’re a student, IT professional, or data analyst looking to improve your resume.

The PL-300 Certification: What is it?

Let’s take a quick look at the PL-300 certification before we get into the price.

The Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst exam, or PL-300, tests your proficiency in planning, modeling, visualizing, and analyzing data with Microsoft Power BI. Professionals in data analytics positions or those who want to focus on using Power BI to make data-driven decisions will find it suitable.

How much does PL-300 cost

Following are the different exam charges for your PL-300 exam

1. Regular Exam Charge

The typical price of the PL-300 exam as of 2025 is:

• In the United States, $165 USD

• However, because Microsoft uses regional pricing schemes, rates may differ based on where you live. For instance:

• The cost is approximately £113 GBP in the UK.

• The price in the EU is approximately €165.

• Go to the official Microsoft Exam PL-300 page to see the most recent and correct cost for your nation.

• The exam normally costs ₹4,800 INR in India.

2. Discounts for Students

If you have a legitimate academic email address and are a student, Microsoft provides substantial savings. These price reductions might be anything from 25% to 50%.

To be eligible:

• You need to use Microsoft’s certification profile to confirm that you are a student.

• Discounted rates will show up when the exam is scheduled after verification.

3. Exam Retake Expense

If you fail the PL-300, Microsoft permits a retake; however, unless you purchase an Exam Replay Voucher, which includes a retake option at a bundled price, each try necessitates a new payment of the entire charge.

Extra Expenses Related to PL-300

Although the exam fee is a significant outlay, there may be additional unstated or optional fees associated with PL-300 preparation, such as

1. Instruction and Programs

• Microsoft provides training choices that are both free and paid.

• Microsoft Learn (self-paced modules) is a free option.

YouTube guides

• Free forums and blogs

• Udemy fees for paid courses range from $15 to $60, depending on sales.

LinkedIn Learning: 

• $39 per month for a subscription model

• Pluralsight: $299 annually or $29 per month

• The price range for instructor-led training, such as corporate training or boot camps, is $500 to $1,000.

Explore Microsoft Power Platform courses and Microsoft certification training for more learning paths.

2. Study aids and books

The cost of books intended to aid with PL-300 preparation is approximately

$30 to $60 USD at internet stores like Amazon.

Some suggested titles are:

• Exam Reference: PL-300 Data Analyst for Microsoft Power BI

• Data Analysis Using Microsoft Power BI

3. Practice Exams

• Good practice tests support learning and are reasonably priced.

• $10 to $30 USD per set on websites such as MeasureUp, Whizlabs, or Udemy.

• Timed simulations and thorough explanations are included in certain packages, which provide important exam preparation information.

Are There Any Free PL-300 Resources?

Indeed! On a tight budget, you can take advantage of:

• Microsoft Learn offers free modules for every ability level.

• Search for YouTube channels that highlight Power BI certifications.

• Participate in discussions in IT Training category or Cyber Security category.

Cost-Reduction Strategies for PL-300 Test Takers

Here are some useful pointers to lower the price of becoming certified:

Start with Microsoft Training and Use Free Training First Before spending money on paid courses, educate yourself.

• Keep an eye out for sales: Udemy frequently provides steep discounts; take advantage of these to purchase courses for as little as $10.

• Bundle Your Purchase: If you’re not confident you’ll pass on your first try, think about purchasing the Exam Replay bundle.

• Verify Employer Sponsorship: A lot of businesses pay for or repay professional certifications in full.

Does the Price of the PL-300 Certification Make Sense?

Anyone hoping to work as a data analyst or business intelligence specialist would be well to invest in the PL-300 certification. Since Power BI is among the most sought-after technologies in the data analytics industry, certified professionals frequently observe:

• Greater pay

• Improved employment opportunities

• Opportunities for career progression

Long-term career rewards outweigh the average $200–$300 USD investment (including preparation materials).

Final Thoughts

How much does PL-300 cost? Depending on the study path you select, the overall fees, including preparation, might range from $200 to $500; however, the base exam fee is approximately $165 USD.

• To get the most out of your investment:

• Utilize free resources.

• Make a study schedule.

• Spend money on materials only when absolutely necessary.

Whether you want to improve your CV or learn more about data analytics, the PL-300 certification is a great investment at a reasonable price.