Microsoft has announced new prices for its certification exams that are coming into force in most countries on July 1, 2011 and in India on August 1. 

As explained in Microsoft Developer Certifications Demystified becoming a Microsoft Certified Professional Developer entails passing several exams. If you have been putting off actually taking these exams there is a now a financial incentive as the prices are set to rise.

Exam prices vary between countries and Microsoft has provided a pop-up pricing tool (which needs Silverlight) to let you look up the current and new rates.

In the US the cost per exam will increase from $125 to $150, in the UK from £88 to £99, in India from USD $50 to USD $80 and in some of the Euro zone (France, Germany and Italy, for example) from 140 to 150 euros. However in Ireland, Greece, Spain and Portugal (all of which are facing financial difficulties) there are no price changes at this time.

The pricing tool also lets you look up the reduced rates that apply if you are student enrolled in a degree or diploma program. The new Microsoft Technology Associate qualification intended as the first rung of the certification ladder specifically for students is exempt from the price rise, as are the top tier qualifications Microsoft Certified Master and Microsoft Certified Architect.

If you are intending to take exams and don't think you'll be ready before the July/August deadline it might be worth looking into exam vouchers. Exam vouchers purchased between now and June 30, 2011 at the current prices will remain valid until November 30, 2011. If you already have an exam voucher purchased before April 21 it will remain valid for 12 months from the data of purchase.

More information:

New Prices for Microsoft Certifications Exams

Microsoft Developer Certifications Demystified