AWS Cloud Practitioner
Entry-level AWS certification validating foundational cloud concepts, core services, security, and pricing models.
Full guide →PMP
The gold-standard project management certification recognized globally — validates ability to lead projects across any methodology.
Full guide →AWS Cloud Practitioner vs PMP
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | AWS Cloud Practitioner | PMP |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$100 USD | $555 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$8,000/yr | ✓+$25,000/yr |
| Passing score | 700/1000 | 70/1000 |
| Exam duration | 90 min | 230 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | Amazon Web Services | PMI |
| Difficulty |
AWS Cloud Practitioner
None required
PMP
4-year degree + 36 months leading projects + 35 hours PM education (or 60 months with high school diploma)
- You're new to cloud and want a foundational credential from AWS
- You want a potential +$8,000/yr salary uplift
- Your organisation runs on AWS and you need the recognised entry-level credential
- You're a seasoned PM targeting the most globally recognised credential
- You want a potential +$25,000/yr salary uplift
AWS Cloud Practitioner and PMP lead to entirely different careers — cloud computing vs project management. The right choice depends on which field aligns with your current job or target role. If you want both eventually, start with AWS Cloud Practitioner — it's the quicker win at the beginner level.
Best AWS Cloud Practitioner courses
Best PMP courses
Is AWS Cloud Practitioner harder than PMP?
PMP is harder — rated advanced vs beginner.
Which pays more — AWS Cloud Practitioner or PMP?
AWS Cloud Practitioner has an average salary uplift of +$8,000/yr, while PMP has +$25,000/yr. PMP has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — AWS Cloud Practitioner or PMP?
AWS Cloud Practitioner is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward PMP.
Can I get both AWS Cloud Practitioner and PMP?
Yes — many professionals hold both. AWS Cloud Practitioner and PMP complement each other, covering cloud computing and project management respectively. Holding both signals broader expertise and typically commands a higher salary than either cert alone.
Which is worth it in 2026 — AWS Cloud Practitioner or PMP?
Both are worth it in 2026. AWS Cloud Practitioner offers a +$8,000/yr average salary uplift; PMP offers +$25,000/yr. PMP has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.