CAPM vs. PMP: Which certification is right for you?
CAPM vs. PMP: Which certification is right for you?
$425 – $800 CAPM certification cost (training and exam)
$505 – $4,075 PMP certification cost (training and exam)
CAPM vs. PMP: Which is best for you?
The Project Management Institute (PMI) administers two certifications: The Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)® and the Project Management Professional (PMP)®. PMP certification is more rigorous and has more requirements than CAPM, which is considered entry-level.
Here's a quick comparison:
| Factor | CAPM | PMP |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Entry-level project managers | Project managers with 3+ years of experience |
| Average US salary* | $66,000 | $97,000 |
| Job postings** | 1,136 | 24,208 |
| Training & exam cost | $425 – $800 | $505 – $4,075 |
| Exam length | 3 hours | 150 questions | 3 hours 50 minutes | 180 questions |
| Valid for | 5 years | 3 years |
| Requirements |
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*From Payscale & Ziprecruiter July 2023. **From Indeed July 2023.
CAPM vs. PMP certification requirements
Both CAPM and PMP certifications display your skills, competence, and leadership capabilities but have different education and training requirements.
PMP requires the following experience and training:
60 months of leadership experience if you don't have a four-year degree, or 36 months of leadership experience with a degree
35 hours of PMP training or a CAPM certification
CAPM requires the following education and training:
A high school diploma, GED, Associate's degree, or equivalent
23 hours of project management training
PMP vs. CAPM exam
Both the PMP and CAPM exams are based off of the PMBOK® Guide, a handbook made by the PMI. Both exams test your knowledge on team management and project execution. However, the PMP exam is more rigorous and covers specific real-world scenarios involving the following concepts:
Initiating projects
Planning the project, budget, and schedule
Assessing risks
Implementing plans
Monitoring progress and supervising employees
Providing deliverables and closing the project
PMP vs. CAPM salary comparison
PMP holders typically have higher salaries than CAPM holders. According to popular salary data sites like Payscale and Ziprecruiter, CAPM holders make $66,000 per year on average, while PMP holders make $97,000 per year.
A survey from Indeed concluded that 57% of people saw an increase in their earnings after getting a CAPM certification. In comparison, 68% saw increased earnings after getting a PMP certification.
| Job title | CAPM average annual salary | PMP average annual salary |
| Project manager | $52,000 – $90,000 | $64,000 – $154,000 |
| Director of operations | $56,000 – $96,000 | $71,000 – $182,000 |
| Information technology (IT) project manager | $60,000 – $109,000 | $71,000 – $197,000 |
PMP and CAPM benefits
Both CAPM and PMP certifications can increase your earning potential and indicate your competence to prospective employers. CAPM shows employers you have a foundation and basic knowledge regarding project management and are more capable than the average entry-level candidate.
PMP certification demonstrates that you have advanced skills and knowledge regarding project management and can help you find higher-paying positions than a CAPM certification. PMP holders are more versed in real-world management situations and are more likely to get senior positions.
PMP vs. CAPM career paths
CAPM and PMP certifications offer different job opportunities. While many project management job descriptions and titles overlap, a CAPM certification is typically used to find the following jobs:
Assistant project manager
Project manager
Project coordinator
Project executive
Associate project management executive
Project management consultant
Project management analyst
A PMP certification often leads to more advanced job titles, including:
Project manager
Senior project manager
PMO specialist
Customer success manager
User experience manager
Agile leader
Portfolio manager
Senior project management consultant
Senior project management analyst
CAPM vs. PMP certification cost
Project Manager Professional (PMP) certification costs $100 to $3,500 for training and $405 to $575 for the exam. The Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certificate costs $200 to $500 for a training course and $225 to $300 for the exam. CAPM is considered a stepping stone on the way to PMP.
| Certification type | Average cost* |
|---|---|
| CAPM | $425 – $800 |
| PMP | $505 – $4,075 |
*Includes training and one exam
CAPM vs. PMP certification cost breakdown
CAPM certification costs less than PMP overall. Both require training and an exam, and both must be renewed periodically to remain valid.
| Factor | CAPM average cost | PMP average cost |
|---|---|---|
| Training / course | $200 – $500 | $100 – $3,500 |
| Exam (first attempt) | $225 – $300 | $405 – $575 |
| Exam (retake) | $150 – $200 | $275 – $375 |
| Renewal | $60 – $150 | $60 – $150 |
The following factors may affect your certification cost:
PMI membership – The Project Management Institute (PMI) offers an annual membership for $129, plus a $10 application fee. PMI members get a discount on exams and renewals. Students, groups, and retirees qualify for a reduced PMI membership rate.
Self-guided vs. live – Online, self-guided courses typically cost less than in-person classes. However, having a teacher available to answer your questions may be worth the extra cost.
Retakes – If you don't pass the CAPM or PMP exam on the first try, you can try again at a later date without paying full price.
Experience – Individuals without a four-year degree must have 60 months of relevant leadership experience to qualify for the PMP exam, as opposed to 36 hours with a degree. If you don't have a degree or experience, consider CAPM certification instead.
Students, groups, and retirees qualify for a discounted PMI membership rate.
PMP vs. CAPM training cost
PMP certification training costs $100 to $2,000 for online courses or $1,000 to $3,500 for in-person classes. PMP training is at least 35 hours long. Some websites offer free PMP training, but it is usually part of a free trial.
CAPM training courses or bootcamps cost $200 to $500 on average and last 23 hours, typically spread out over 2 to 4 days. The PMI Project Management Basics Course costs $350 for members or $400 for non-members. This course is self-guided and includes an official practice exam.
PMP vs. CAPM exam cost
The PMP exam costs $405 for PMI members or $575 for non-members. Retakes of the PMP exam cost $275 or $375 for members and non-members, respectively. You're allowed to retake the exam up to three times per year.
The CAPM exam costs $225 for PMI members or $300 for non-members. CAPM retakes cost $150 or $200 for members and non-members, respectively.
Before taking the PMP or CAPM exam, take at least one mock exam to prepare yourself and increase your confidence.
PMP vs. CAPM renewal cost
The renewal cost for both CAPM and PMP is $60 for PMI members or $150 for non-members. Your PMP certification is eligible for renewal every 3 years as long as you've completed 60 professional development units (PDUs) related to project management.
CAPM expires after 5 years. You can either renew or apply for a PMP. If you choose to renew, you'll need 15 units of professional development. To apply for a PMP, you need 36 months of professional experience and a four-year degree or 60 months of experience without a degree.
Examples of PDUs include:
Professional webinars, seminars, or events
PMI-approved programs
Online coursework
Creating online content
Giving professional presentations
Volunteering at related organizations or events
CAPM vs. PMP pros and cons
Both CAPM and PMP certification offer opportunities to showcase your skills in leadership and project management, and both potentially increase your earning potential. However, CAPM is more ideal for beginners or entry-level positions.
| Certification | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| CAPM |
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| PMP |
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CAPM vs. PMP differences & FAQs
Is getting a CAPM or PMP certificate worth it?
Getting a CAPM or PMP certification is worth it because they display your skills and experience to employers. PMP holders typically have a higher salary than CAPM holders. However, both certifications often lead to higher salaries overall and have a high return on investment (ROI).
Do you need CAPM before PMP?
You do not need to get a CAPM certification before taking the PMP exam. However, if you have a CAPM certificate, you do not have to take or pay for a 35-hour PMP training course.
Is CAPM easier than PMP?
CAPM is considered difficult but not as demanding as PMP. The CAPM exam has 150 questions and takes up to 3 hours. The PMP exam has 180 questions, and you have 3 hours and 50 minutes to take it.
Finding CAPM or PMP courses & tutors
When choosing a CAPM or PMP PMP tutor near you, be sure to:
Get referrals from friends or colleagues.
Browse reviews on Tutors and Google.
Look for an instructor with experience teaching CAPM and PMP courses.
Confirm their education and credentials.
Interview 3+ educators who fit your schedule and budget.
Questions to ask
Ask these questions to find the best CAPM or PMP certification instructor:
How long have you been teaching CAPM and PMP courses?
What are your qualifications?
Do you adapt the lessons to students' experience levels?
What happens if I don't pass the exam after taking this course?
What is the schedule for this course?
Where will the classes take place?
How long does each session last?
Are there any fees for materials?
What is the cancellation policy?