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Return on Investment

The following is a comparison of time and out-of-pocket expenses * required to achieve a Data Center Storage Networking Specialization using either Partner Education Connection (PEC) or Instructor-Led Training (ILT), where available. As a Cisco Partner you benefit by using the PEC, generally saving a significant amount of money you would otherwise invest in travel, training fees and out-of-office time. Note: When you renew your specialization you may only incur exam costs. See below for details.

Cisco specializations represent a significant investment of time and resources. We highly recommend you consult with your Cisco channel account manager prior to committing to a particular specialization to help ensure that there are adequate opportunities in your geography and market to warrant earning a specific specialization.

* Times and costs are estimated here, in U.S. dollars, for comparison purposes only. Your organization's investment may vary depending on the career certifications individuals may have

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Total estimated learning hours and investment
  Estimated Hours Investment
Instructor Led Training (ILT)
129
$10,000
Out-of-Pocket Exam Cost
3
$375
Total Investment
132
$10,375

Break-Even Point

Based on the investment estimates above, the following chart lists the revenue levels at which you would start to gain a return on your investment. This chart illustrates gross revenue from the resale of hardware at an average of 5 percent margin, or services revenue at an average of 20 percent margin.

  Hardware Only @ 5% Services @ 20%
ILT
$207,000
$51,875

Training and Exam Investment by Role

When you renew your specialization you may only incur exam costs.

Account Manager
Classes are ONLY available on PEC
PEC
Estimated hours of classes and exams
67
Out-of-pocket training cost
$0
Out-of-pocket exam cost
$125

Systems Engineer
Classes are available via ILT ONLY
ILT
Estimated hours of courses and exams
41
Out-of-pocket training cost
$2,500
Out-of-pocket exam cost
$125

Field Engineer
Classes are available via ILT ONLY
ILT
Estimated hours of courses and exams
81
Out-of-pocket training cost
$7,500
Out-of-pocket exam cost
$125