Talk is cheap, but getting it certifications is anything but. Self-study certifications start at $900 and go up to $1,200. If IT professionals feel the need to sit in a class to soak up knowledge, those costs shoot up to between $5,000 and $11,000 per certification. Whats a poor, cash-strapped individual or enterprise to do?
If Linux or IBM DB2 certifications are on your agenda, you can rejoice. For a limited time, IBM and Compaq Computer Corp. are offering free exams and training.
Through March 31, free training and testing for Compaqs ProLiant/Linux ASE (Accredited Systems Engineer) is available for systems engineers employed by Compaq channel partners, Compaq customers and employees, and Compaq ASE certification holders who want to acquire the Linux designation.
Prerequisites are RHCE (Red Hat Certified Engineer) or the Sair Linux and GNU Certified Engineer certifications from Wave Technologies International Inc., of Oxford, Miss. Candidates can receive test vouchers good toward the certification exam fee.
New candidates for Compaq ASE can also receive a voucher for a Compaq ProLiant/Linux class, a five-day course that usually costs $2,000. ProLiant ASE holders can get free tuition for a Compaq ProLiant/Linux Integration and Performance class, a two-day course that normally goes for $800. A credit card number is required to secure any no-show penalty. For more information, go to www.compaq.com/certification/na/linux100clubterms.html.
IBM is also giving away goodies: free electronic vouchers for DB2 Certification exams. The offer is good during the months of April, June, August, October and November of this year. Candidates must pass an assessment exam first. Those who score 75 percent or greater on the exam will be sent a voucher to take the real certification exam. You must qualify for a voucher during one of the six offering months and use the voucher as a fee for the exam before its expiration date. For additional information, go to www-1.ibm.com/certify/news/20020129.shtml.
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