What is the OSCP Certification Cost in India ? The complete guide

Table of Contents

• What Are Offensive Security Certifications?
• Why Do Offensive Security Certifications Cost More?
• OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional): Cost Breakdown
• Other Offensive Security Certifications and Their Costs
• Optional Add-Ons That Add to the Cost
• What Makes the Investment Worthwhile?
• How to Reduce the Cost Without Sacrificing Quality
• Conclusion
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Offensive Security certifications are among the most respected credentials in the cybersecurity world, especially for professionals aiming to master ethical hacking and penetration testing. But one of the most common questions that arise is: How much do these certifications actually cost, and what value do they bring?

In this blog, we’ll break down the costs of key Offensive Security certifications—including OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional), OSWA, OSEP, and more—and help you understand what’s included, how to prepare, and whether the investment is worth it.

What Are Offensive Security Certifications?

Offensive Security, the creators of Kali Linux, offer a suite of hands-on, practical cybersecurity certifications that validate a candidate's ability to perform real-world penetration testing tasks. These certifications are highly respected in the ethical hacking community because they go beyond theoretical exams and focus on actual attack and defense scenarios.

Popular certifications offered by Offensive Security include:

• OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional)

• OSEP (Offensive Security Experienced Penetration Tester)

• OSWE (Offensive Security Web Expert)

• OSWA (Offensive Security Web Assessor)

• OSED (Offensive Security Exploit Developer)

• OffSec Proving Grounds Enterprise Access

Each certification tests a unique skill set ranging from web application security to exploit development and advanced red teaming.

Why Do Offensive Security Certifications Cost More?

Unlike multiple-choice exams offered by other vendors, Offensive Security certifications feature hands-on, scenario-based exams in isolated lab environments. You are required to exploit machines, maintain access, and document findings—simulating real penetration testing engagements.

This practical nature adds to the infrastructure and support requirements, making these certifications costlier but more impactful than many others in the industry.

OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional): Cost Breakdown

The OSCP certification, offered through the PEN-200: Penetration Testing with Kali Linux course, is the most sought-after Offensive Security credential.

OSCP Cost in India

The official cost structure (as of 2025) is:

Note: These prices include the exam attempt.

What’s Included?

• Access to PEN-200 official courseware

• Lab access (30/90/365 days based on plan)

• One exam attempt

• Kali Linux exercises

• Support from OffSec team

At institutes like Ethical Hacking Training Institute, additional services like CEI-certified instructor-led sessions, real-time lab projects, interview prep, and lifetime access to recorded sessions are provided, which offer much more than just exam preparation.

Other Offensive Security Certifications and Their Costs

1. OSEP (PEN-300) – Advanced Penetration Testing

Cost: ₹54,999 to ₹99,999 depending on lab access (30/90/365 days)

• Focuses on evading defenses, Active Directory attacks, and Red Team operations.

• Ideal for those who already hold the OSCP.

2. OSWE (WEB-300) – Web Application Exploitation

Cost: ₹54,999 to ₹99,999

• Specializes in discovering and exploiting web vulnerabilities.

• Suitable for web app pentesters and bug bounty hunters.

3. OSED (EXP-301) – Exploit Development

Cost: ₹54,999 to ₹99,999

• Geared toward exploit developers and advanced offensive security researchers.

• Requires knowledge of buffer overflows and assembly language.

4. OSWA – Web Assessor

Cost: ₹24,999 to ₹39,999 (typically)

• A beginner-level web testing course that introduces foundational web exploitation.

• Often a stepping stone to OSWE.

Optional Add-Ons That Add to the Cost

When preparing for Offensive Security certifications, especially OSCP, additional services can add to your investment:

• Instructor-Led Training: Adds ₹15,000–₹25,000 depending on provider

• 1-on-1 Mentoring: Typically ₹5,000–₹10,000 extra

• Extended Lab Access: Can increase total cost by ₹10,000–₹30,000

• Post-Training Support: Resume building, mock interviews, and project work may also involve extra charges

Institutes like Ethical Hacking Training Institute often bundle these into training packages to help students get job-ready without surprise fees.

What Makes the Investment Worthwhile?

1. Global Recognition

The OSCP and other Offensive Security certifications are widely accepted by government organizations, Fortune 500 companies, and cybersecurity consultancies.

2. Practical Knowledge

Unlike theory-based exams, OffSec certifications train you to think like a hacker and act like a defender.

3. Career Growth

According to job portals, OSCP-certified professionals in India can earn:

• ₹6–9 LPA for freshers

• ₹12–20 LPA for experienced professionals

With roles like Penetration Tester, Red Team Analyst, SOC Engineer, and Security Researcher, the ROI is significant.

How to Reduce the Cost Without Sacrificing Quality

• Opt for bundled training programs that include labs, exam prep, and mentorship.

• Choose institutes that offer job placement and career support.

• Plan your exam strategy: Avoid retakes by thoroughly preparing with practical labs and mentorship.

At Ethical Hacking Training Institute, the focus is not only on exam passing but building cybersecurity careers through 100% practical-based training, real-time labs, and customized learning paths.

Conclusion: Is OSCP Worth the Cost?

Yes—if you're serious about becoming a penetration tester or ethical hacker, the OSCP and other Offensive Security certifications are well worth the investment. The hands-on experience, real-world labs, and industry value of these credentials make them a smart choice for long-term cybersecurity careers.

If you're in Pune or anywhere in India, the Ethical Hacking Training Institute offers one of the most cost-effective, mentorship-driven, and career-oriented OSCP training programs with expert faculty and real-time projects.

FAQs

What is the total cost of OSCP certification in India?

The OSCP certification typically costs between ₹29,999 to ₹99,999 + 18% GST depending on the lab access duration (30, 90, or 365 days).

What does the OSCP cost include?

The OSCP cost includes official PEN-200 courseware, lab access, one exam attempt, Kali Linux exercises, and OffSec platform support.

Is OSCP worth the price?

Yes, OSCP is widely recognized in the cybersecurity industry and provides hands-on skills that lead to high-paying jobs in penetration testing and red teaming.

How much does OSEP certification cost?

OSEP (via the PEN-300 course) ranges from ₹54,999 to ₹99,999 based on lab access options (30 to 365 days).

What is the cost of OSWE certification in India?

OSWE (via the WEB-300 course) costs ₹54,999 to ₹99,999 depending on the package selected.

Are there any hidden charges in Offensive Security certifications?

No hidden charges from OffSec, but additional coaching, mentorship, or job prep services from institutes may cost extra.

Can I retake the OSCP exam for free?

One attempt is included. Retakes require an additional fee, usually around ₹20,000–₹25,000 per attempt.

How can I prepare for OSCP on a budget?

Opt for bundled packages from reputable training institutes that include mentoring, lab support, and career services.

Do Indian training institutes offer discounted OSCP training?

Yes, some institutes offer bundled OSCP packages with training, projects, and mentoring at competitive prices.

What is OffSec Learn One vs Learn Unlimited?

Learn One gives 1 course with 30/90 days lab access, while Learn Unlimited offers access to all courses and 1 year of lab time.

What’s the salary after completing OSCP in India?

Freshers earn ₹6–9 LPA, while experienced professionals can earn ₹12–20 LPA in penetration testing and red team roles.

Is OSCP certification valid internationally?

Yes, OSCP is globally recognized and accepted by cybersecurity employers worldwide.

Which Offensive Security certification is best after OSCP?

OSEP is often considered the next step after OSCP for professionals aiming to deepen their red team and evasion skills.

How much does OSWA certification cost?

OSWA typically ranges from ₹24,999 to ₹39,999 and is ideal for beginners in web application testing.

Is the OSCP exam hard to pass?

Yes, it is challenging due to its hands-on nature, but with proper training and lab practice, it’s achievable.

Can I pay for OSCP in installments?

Some third-party training institutes may offer installment options, though OffSec itself does not.

Does OSCP include job placement?

OffSec does not offer job placement, but institutes like Ethical Hacking Training Institute often include placement assistance.

How long does OSCP preparation take?

It typically takes 2 to 6 months, depending on prior knowledge and lab access duration.

Can I get OSCP training in Pune?

Yes, institutes like Ethical Hacking Training Institute offer OSCP training with hands-on labs and expert mentorship in Pune.

Do I need programming knowledge for OSCP?

Basic understanding of Bash, Python, and networking helps significantly during OSCP preparation.

What tools are used during OSCP training?

Kali Linux, Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap, and manual scripting are commonly used tools.

Can I take OSCP exam remotely?

Yes, the OSCP exam is conducted online with strict proctoring and exam rules.

Is OSCP suitable for beginners?

OSCP is ideal for those with foundational knowledge of Linux and networking; true beginners should start with CEH or OSWA.

What is the duration of the OSCP exam?

The OSCP exam lasts 24 hours and includes practical exploitation of machines in a lab environment.

Are there free resources for OSCP?

Yes, many online communities and blogs share OSCP prep tips, but official course access is paid.

Do I get a certificate after OSCP training?

Yes, upon passing the exam, you receive the official OSCP certificate from Offensive Security.

How can I verify if a training institute is authorized for OSCP?

OffSec does not authorize third-party training, but many institutes offer excellent unofficial preparation.

Is Ethical Hacking Training Institute good for OSCP prep?

Yes, it provides CEI-certified instructors, real-time lab training, and job-focused mentoring tailored for OSCP candidates.

What is the refund policy for OSCP?

OffSec has a strict no-refund policy once lab access is activated; third-party institute policies may vary.

Can I take OSCP while working full-time?

Yes, many working professionals prepare for OSCP part-time using flexible lab access plans and weekend training.