How Much Does the SMSTS Course Cost? (2026 Prices)
SMSTS courses typically cost between 399 and 489 pounds plus VAT. See live prices by format, what is included, and how to pay less.
The short answer: an SMSTS course usually costs between £399 and £489 plus VAT, depending on how and where you take it. Online courses are normally the cheapest, classroom block courses sit in the middle, and day release or weekend options can carry a small premium. The table below shows real prices from live availability on CourseGenie right now, so it is always up to date.
| Format | From (+VAT) | Dates | Next start |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | £439 | 65 | 25 Jul 2026 |
| Block | £449 | 42 | 20 Jul 2026 |
| Day Release | £449 | 4 | 12 Aug 2026 |
What affects the price of an SMSTS course
Four things move the price more than anything else:
- Delivery format. Online instructor-led courses (run over video call with a live tutor) are usually the cheapest way to do the full 5 days. Classroom courses cost a little more because of venue overheads.
- Schedule. A 5-day block is the standard. Day release (one day a week for 5 weeks) and weekend courses are easier to fit around work, and some providers charge slightly more for them.
- Location. Venue prices vary by city. Comparing a few dates and venues side by side often saves £20 to £50 on the same course.
- When you book. Courses with unsold seats close to the start date are sometimes discounted. If you can be flexible on dates, check for offers before you book.
SMSTS Refresher: cheaper if your certificate is still valid
If you already hold SMSTS and your certificate has not expired, you do not need to pay for the full 5-day course again. The 2-day SMSTS Refresher renews your certificate for another 5 years at a much lower price. You must complete it before your current certificate runs out, so check your expiry date early.
| Format | From (+VAT) | Dates | Next start |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | £279 | 66 | 18 Jul 2026 |
| Block | £269 | 38 | 22 Jul 2026 |
| Weekend | £279 | 4 | 25 Jul 2026 |
What is included in the price
On CourseGenie the price you see covers the full course, the CITB exam at the end, course materials, and your Site Safety Plus certificate, which is valid for 5 years. There are no booking fees. All prices are shown excluding VAT, which is added at checkout, and VAT registered businesses can normally claim it back.
Can you get help with the cost?
If your employer is registered with CITB, they may be able to claim a grant towards SMSTS and other Site Safety Plus courses. Grant rates and rules change, so check the current position on the CITB grants and funding pages before you book.
Booking for a team? For 4 or more people we can quote group rates and arrange on-site delivery. Request a group quote here.
How to keep the cost down
- Compare dates, venues and formats in one place before you book. The cheapest and the most expensive date for the same course are often £50 apart.
- Consider the online course if travel and hotel costs would apply to a classroom venue.
- Book the refresher before your certificate expires. Letting SMSTS lapse means paying for the full 5-day course again.
- Booking several people at once? Ask for a group quote rather than paying per seat.
Common questions
Is VAT included in the advertised price? No. Like most training providers, prices are shown excluding VAT and it is added at checkout.
Does the price include the exam and certificate? Yes. The CITB exam and your 5-year Site Safety Plus certificate are included.
Is there a cheaper alternative to SMSTS? If you supervise rather than manage, the 2-day SSSTS course may be the right qualification at a lower price. If you are unsure which you need, read our guide comparing the two.
Ready to book? See every SMSTS date, venue and price here, sorted by cheapest or soonest.