Blog #Offensive Security

The Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) certification continues to dominate as the premier credential for ethical hackers. As cyberattacks grow more sophisticated with AI-driven threats and cloud vulnerabilities, the OSCP’s hands-on exam remains a critical benchmark. But in 2025, aspiring candidates are asking: What is the OSCP certification price today?

This revamped guide dissects every dollar you’ll spend—from course fees and exam retakes to AI-powered tools and hidden expenses. Learn how the OSCP’s price tag compares to its career rewards and discover actionable strategies to save money while earning this elite certification.

What’s New in the 2025 OSCP Certification?

Offensive Security has modernized the OSCP to reflect 2025’s threat landscape:

1. AI vs. Hacker Labs: Practice bypassing AI-powered intrusion detection systems (IDS).
2. Cloud-Centric Challenges: Exploit misconfigured AWS Lambda, Azure Kubernetes, and Google Cloud instances.
3. Exam Retake Flexibility: Two free retakes included in the base PEN-300 bundle.
4. Dynamic Pricing: Discounts for early-bird bookings and seasonal sales (e.g., Cybersecurity Awareness Month).

Why OSCP Certification Remains Worth Its Price in 2025

1. Pentesting Salaries Surge: OSCP-certified professionals earn 115,000–115,000–230,000/year, with cloud specialists hitting $260,000+ (ISC² 2025 Data).
2. Employer Demand: 78% of job postings for penetration testers require OSCP (LinkedIn 2025 Report).
3. Future-Proof Skills: Master offensive tactics against AI, quantum encryption, and IoT botnets.

OSCP Certification Price Breakdown for 2025

Here’s a detailed look at the 2025 pricing structure, including mandatory and optional expenses:

1. PEN-300 Course & Exam Bundle: $1,999

The PEN-300 (2025’s updated course) includes:

• 45 Days of Hybrid Lab Access: Cloud + on-premise environments (valued at $899 separately).
• Two Exam Attempts: Reduced retake costs compared to 2023’s single attempt.
• AI Mentor Tool: Real-time exploit debugging and lab progress tracking.
• 1-Year Access to Materials: Updated modules on API hacking, DevSecOps, and AI evasion.

2. Lab Extensions: 299–299–1,799

If 45 days aren’t enough, extend your lab time:

• 15 Days: $299
• 30 Days: $899
• 60 Days: $1,499
• 90 Days: $1,799

Pro Tip: Buy extensions during Black Friday 2024 for 30% off.

3. Exam Retakes: $349 per Attempt

If both free retakes are exhausted, additional attempts cost $349 each.

4. Mandatory Cloud Lab Subscription: $199/year

New in 2025: OffSec requires a yearly cloud lab subscription post-enrollment. PEN-300 students get the first year free.

5. Study Materials & Tools

• Certified Practice Platforms: HTB Academy Pro Labs (299/year) or TCMSecurity’s PNPT+(299/year) or TCM Security’s PNPT+(499).
• Hardware Upgrades: A machine with 32GB RAM, NVIDIA RTX 4070 GPU, and Kali Linux 2025 ($1,500+).
• AI Tools: OffSec’s ExploitGPT (49/month) or BurpSuite AIAssistant(49/month) or BurpSuite AIAssistant (99/month).

6. Hidden Fees

• VPN/Proxy Services: Access geo-restricted cloud labs (15–15–60/month).
• Time Investment: 250+ hours over 4–6 months (opportunity cost for working professionals).

Is the OSCP Certification Price Justified in 2025?

Yes—if you’re targeting high-paying roles in cloud security, AI red teaming, or DevSecOps.

ROI Analysis

• Entry-Level Jobs: Junior Cloud Pentester (115,000) vs non−certified(115,000) vs .non−certified(75,000).
• Freelance Opportunities: OSCP-certified bug bounty hunters earn 200–200–400/hour on platforms like HackerOne.
• Career Acceleration: 92% of OSCP holders land promotions within 12 months (Cybersecurity Ventures 2025).

7 Tips to Reduce Your OSCP Certification Price in 2025

1. Bundle PEN-300 with Certs: Save 20% by purchasing OSCP + OSDA (Advanced Web Attacks) together.
2. Join Free Cloud Labs: Use AWS Educate or Google Cloud Free Tier to practice without extra costs.
3. Apply for Corporate Sponsorships: Employers like Cisco and IBM often cover certification fees.
4. Buy Secondhand Hardware: Refurbished GPUs or RAM upgrades via eBay or Newegg.
5. Leverage ChatGPT-5: Replace paid courses with AI-generated exploit scripts and study plans.
6. Attend Virtual Conferences: Events like DEF CON 2025 offer free OSCP prep workshops.
7. Share Lab Subscriptions: Split cloud lab costs with study groups (per OffSec’s updated policy).

FAQs: OSCP Certification Price in 2025

Q: Does the OSCP price include study materials?

A: Yes—PEN-300 provides PDF guides, videos, and AI mentorship.

Q: Are there payment plans for the $1,999 fee?

A: Yes—OffSec’s FlexiPay splits payments over 6 months at 0% interest.

Q: Is the OSCP exam harder in 2025?

A: Yes, due to AI defenses, but PEN-300’s labs prepare you thoroughly.

Q: What’s the total OSCP certification price?

A: Budget 3,200–3,200–5,500, including labs, tools, and 1–2 retakes.

Conclusion

The OSCP certification price in 2025 reflects its evolution into a cutting-edge, AI-focused credential—but the ROI is unmatched. By leveraging corporate sponsorships, AI tools, and smart budgeting, you can conquer the exam without financial strain. Ready to join the ranks of elite ethical hackers? Enroll in PEN-300 and turn your cybersecurity career into a high-reward investment.

In the world of cybersecurity, professional certifications are a gateway to expertise, recognition, and career advancement. Among the plethora of certifications available, the Offensive Security Experienced Penetration Tester (OSEP) stands out as a highly respected credential for professionals seeking to excel in advanced penetration testing and ethical hacking. This blog explores the OSEP certification, its benefits, and how to prepare effectively to ace this challenge.

What is OSEP?

The Offensive Security Experienced Penetration Tester (OSEP) is a certification offered by Offensive Security, the creators of the well-known OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional). OSEP is part of Offensive Security’s Advanced Security Certification series and is designed for professionals who already have a solid foundation in penetration testing and want to enhance their skills in bypassing advanced security mechanisms.

Why Pursue the OSEP Certification?

1. Advanced Skill Development OSEP pushes the boundaries of your penetration testing knowledge. The course focuses on advanced topics like bypassing firewalls, antivirus solutions, and endpoint protection systems. These are critical skills in real-world scenarios.
   
   
2. Career Advancement Holding an OSEP certification demonstrates your expertise in penetration testing, making you a desirable candidate for roles such as Senior Penetration Tester, Red Team Operator, and Security Consultant.
   
   
3. Recognition in the Industry Offensive Security certifications are globally recognized for their rigor and practical focus. Earning the OSEP sets you apart as a professional capable of handling complex security challenges.
   
   
4. Hands-On Experience The OSEP certification isn’t just about theory. It includes practical labs and a 48-hour certification exam that tests your ability to apply what you’ve learned in realistic scenarios.

Prerequisites for OSEP

Before diving into OSEP, it’s essential to have a solid understanding of penetration testing concepts. Completing the OSCP certification or having equivalent knowledge is highly recommended. Familiarity with scripting (e.g., Python, PowerShell) and a good grasp of networking and Windows internals are also crucial.

The Course Structure

The OSEP certification is tied to the PEN-300 course, “Evasion Techniques and Breaching Defenses.” This course is a blend of video content, an extensive PDF guide, and hands-on lab exercises. Key topics covered include:

• Advanced Windows attacks
  
  
• Antivirus and endpoint detection evasion
  
  
• Exploiting network defenses
  
  
• Lateral movement techniques
  
  
• Bypassing network access controls
  
  

The course material emphasizes creativity and problem-solving, challenging students to think like an attacker in complex environments.

Tips for Preparing for the OSEP Certification

1. Master the Basics Before tackling OSEP, ensure you have a strong foundation in penetration testing. If you haven’t already, consider pursuing OSCP or an equivalent certification.
   
   
2. Invest Time in Labs The PEN-300 labs are designed to mimic real-world scenarios. Spend ample time practicing in these labs to build your skills and confidence.
   
   
3. Strengthen Your Scripting Skills Scripting is a crucial part of the OSEP exam. Familiarize yourself with tools like PowerShell and Python, and practice writing scripts to automate tasks and exploit vulnerabilities.
   
   
4. Understand the Exam Environment The OSEP exam is a 48-hour hands-on test where you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to bypass defenses and compromise systems. Practice time management and ensure you’re comfortable working under pressure.
   
   
5. Join the Community Engage with the cybersecurity community through forums, Discord channels, and LinkedIn groups. Sharing experiences and tips with fellow aspirants can provide valuable insights.

Benefits of Achieving OSEP

Achieving the OSEP certification signifies your ability to tackle sophisticated security challenges. It enhances your credibility as a cybersecurity professional and opens doors to advanced career opportunities. Moreover, the practical knowledge gained during the certification process equips you to make a tangible impact in defending against modern cyber threats.

Additional Learning Resources

To supplement your preparation, explore resources such as blogs, video tutorials, and books focused on penetration testing and evasion techniques. Platforms like Hack The Box and TryHackMe offer practical challenges to hone your skills further. Staying updated with the latest cybersecurity trends and tools will also give you an edge during your preparation.

Conclusion

The OSEP certification is a pinnacle achievement for cybersecurity professionals aiming to excel in advanced penetration testing. By mastering techniques to bypass sophisticated defenses, OSEP-certified professionals play a crucial role in securing organizations against evolving cyber threats. If you’re ready to elevate your skills and stand out in the cybersecurity landscape, pursuing OSEP is a step in the right direction. Embrace the challenge, and take your expertise to the next level.Are you ready to conquer the OSEP certification? Start your journey today and unlock unparalleled opportunities in the world of cybersecurity.