Alexis Kestler
Earning the TOGAF 9.2 certification is the gold standard for establishing yourself as an enterprise architect. While passing the TOGAF exams can seem intimidating at first, the right learning resources can make the journey much more manageable.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about TOGAF 9.2, including the top preparation materials to help you pass the certification exams.
What is TOGAF Certification?
TOGAF (The Open Group Architecture Framework) is the leading open framework for enterprise architecture, developed and maintained by The Open Group consortium. TOGAF provides a practical methodology and best practices for building, evaluating, and maintaining enterprise IT architectures.
With over 80% market share, TOGAF adoption continues to grow across industries. Leading companies rely on TOGAF-certified professionals to design IT infrastructures aligned to business goals and industry best practices.
The latest TOGAF 9.2 standard represents an iterative improvement incorporating feedback from over 200 member organizations.
Benefits of Earning the TOGAF Certification
Pursuing the TOGAF certification offers many advantages for IT professionals including:
Career Advancement – TOGAF certification validates your skills as an enterprise architect, opening up new job opportunities and salary potential. Surveys show certified professionals earn over 25% more than non-certified peers.
Common Industry Language – Mastering TOGAF terminology and concepts enables clearer communication with stakeholders when planning and implementing architectural projects.
Well-Rounded Skillset – Preparing for TOGAF develops both the technical and soft skills needed for enterprise architecture, providing a foundation for management roles.
Industry Recognition – TOGAF certification is the most widely adopted and respected EA credential, validating your expertise to employers.
Expanded Professional Network – Connecting with other TOGAF-certified peers allows you to share ideas and stay on top of the latest trends and best practices.
TOGAF 9 Certification Process
To earn the TOGAF 9 Certified qualification, you must pass two exams:
- TOGAF 9 Part 1 Exam (Foundation Level)
- TOGAF 9 Part 2 Exam (Certified Level)
The Part 1 exam covers core concepts, key terminology, and the basics of the TOGAF ADM architecture development method.
The Part 2 exam goes deeper into using and applying the ADM across architecture domains, including detailed questions on the Architecture Content Framework, Content Metamodel, and TOGAF Reference Models.
Each exam contains 40 multiple choice questions and requires a 60% score to pass. You have 60 minutes for Part 1 and 90 minutes for the more advanced Part 2.
For complete coverage of both exam levels, some candidates choose to take the Combined Part 1 and 2 exam. Fees range from $320 to $570 USD, depending on the exam path.
Now let’s explore some of the best TOGAF certification exam prep resources available.
1. TOGAF 9.2 Self-Study Pack
The TOGAF 9.2 Self-Study Pack from The Open Group is the definitive exam prep bundle – directly from the source.
This bundle includes:
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TOGAF 9 Foundation Study Guide – Covers all Part 1 exam topics and ADM phases in detail. Great for understanding key concepts.
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TOGAF 9 Certified Study Guide – Expands on the Foundation content to fully prepare you for the Part 2 exam.
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TOGAF Standard Version 9.2 – This pocket guide provides a comprehensive overview of the entire TOGAF 9.2 specification.
With official guides developed by the team that sets the TOGAF standard, this prep package gives you the highest chance of exam success. Priced at $59.90, it’s a very affordable option compared to training courses.
2. Simplilearn TOGAF Certification Training
Simplilearn offers an accredited TOGAF 9 Combined training program for passing at both the Foundation and Certified levels.
Key features of this online bootcamp include:
- 32 hours of in-depth training covering the entire TOGAF 9.2 exam blueprint
- Knowledge checks and chapter quizzes to reinforce key concepts
- 2 full-length mock exams to practice and build test-taking endurance
- Exam pass guarantee – or you can re-attend for free
Priced at $999, this guided course bundles in the TOGAF exam fee for strong overall value. It’s best for those that appreciate structured lessons and expert instruction.
3. Udemy – TOGAF 9 Part 2 Certification Course
With a concise 8 hour runtime, this Udemy course is one of the most popular TOGAF exam prep options on the market.
The course focuses specifically on nailing the Part 2 exam requirements, including:
- Architecture Definition Phases
- Transition Planning Phases
- Governance Phases
- Adapting the ADM
- Other key Part 2 topics
With nearly 40,000 enrolled students, positive reviews praise the to-the-point teaching style of veteran instructor Steve Banner. Frequently on sale for under $20, this prep course offers fantastic value.
4. Pluralsight – TOGAF 9.1 Course & Certification Path
Pluralsight has developed a structured learning path to guide you smoothly through TOGAF 9.1 concepts from beginner to certified professional architect.
Key course modules along this expert-led path include:
- TOGAF 9.1 Part 1: Core Concepts – 7 hours building Part 1 knowledge
- TOGAF 9.1 Part 2: Certification – 6.5 hours focused on Part 2 exam readiness
- Using TOGAF to Define & Implement EA – Real-world TOGAF project examples
With self-paced e-learning organized into 15+ courses, this certification journey can flex perfectly around your schedule. As a Pluralsight member ($29-$49/month), these prep materials are free.
5. A Cloud Guru – TOGAF 9 Combined Part 1 & 2 Course
Reputed online learning platform A Cloud Guru takes a straight to the point approach in their TOGAF course offering.
This condensed 4-hour prep session provides laser focus on topics you need to know for passing both certification exam levels, including:
- Terminology, Principles & Structure
- Core Concepts
- Introduction to the ADM
- Phases of the ADM
- Applying and Adapting the ADM
With lifetime access for a one-time fee of $70, this course is affordably priced. Given the succinct coverage, it‘s best paired with supplementary TOGAF exam resources.
6. Good e-Learning – TOGAF Bundle with Mock Exams
UK-based Good e-Learning is another reputed name providing affordable TOGAF certification bundles. Their full package includes:
- 21+ hours of TOGAF video training – Comprehensive modules teaching all exam topics
- 150+ exam practice questions – Great for testing knowledge gaps to target
- 3 full mock exams – Assess true exam readiness before the big day
- Quick reference cards – Portable crib sheets summarizing key facts
Currently priced around $440 inclusive of official exam vouchers, this is fantastic value-for-money.
7. LinkedIn Learning – The Open Group TOGAF 9.2 Training
LinkedIn Learning offers a concise TOGAF exam prep course for understanding all key terminology, concepts, and components assessed in Parts 1 and 2.
With content constantly updated to the latest TOGAF 9.2 standard, advantages of this 6-hour training include:
- Expert instructor Frank Watts has 30+ years TOGAF teaching experience
- Downloadable resources like reference guides and glossaries
- Mobility – Learn anytime from your mobile device
- Affordability – Free for most LinkedIn Learning subscribers
With quizzes to check progress and certificate of completion, it‘s a solid Part 1 & 2 primer for your studies.
Final Tips for TOGAF Exam Success
With preparation time often limited by work schedules, carefully choosing the right TOGAF exam prep approach to match your learning style is key to certification success.
Many self-motivated professionals favor the flexibility of on-demand e-learning, paired with comprehensive print study guides for recalling key information.
Others benefit most from instructor-led training with set class times to impose a structured study regimen.
Whichever route you take, allowing ample time to practice challenging exam questions is vital for getting comfortable answering scenario-based problems.
With sound TOGAF certification prep tailored to your needs, you can efficiently develop the enterprise architecture acumen needed to pass your exams with flying colors!
