AWS Solutions Architect Associate vs AWS Cloud Practitioner
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
Amazon Web Services
AWS Solutions Architect Associate
SAA-C03
The most sought-after cloud certification — covers designing resilient, high-performing, cost-optimised AWS architectures.
Full guide →Amazon Web Services
AWS Cloud Practitioner
CLF-C02
Entry-level AWS certification validating foundational cloud concepts, core services, security, and pricing models.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | AWS Solutions Architect Associate | AWS Cloud Practitioner |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $300 USD | ✓$100 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$18,000/yr | +$8,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 130 min | 90 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | Amazon Web Services | Amazon Web Services |
| Difficulty | Intermediate | Beginner |
AWS Solutions Architect Associate — Prerequisites
AWS Cloud Practitioner recommended, 1 year hands-on AWS experience
AWS Cloud Practitioner — Prerequisites
None required
Get AWS Solutions Architect Associate if…
- •You have 2–3 years of IT experience and want to specialise
- •You want a +$18,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from Amazon Web Services
Get AWS Cloud Practitioner if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$8,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from Amazon Web Services
Best AWS Solutions Architect Associate courses
Best AWS Cloud Practitioner courses
Frequently asked questions
Is AWS Solutions Architect Associate harder than AWS Cloud Practitioner?
AWS Solutions Architect Associate is harder — rated intermediate vs beginner.
Which pays more — AWS Solutions Architect Associate or AWS Cloud Practitioner?
AWS Solutions Architect Associate has an average salary uplift of +$18,000/yr, while AWS Cloud Practitioner has +$8,000/yr. AWS Solutions Architect Associate has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — AWS Solutions Architect Associate or AWS Cloud Practitioner?
AWS Cloud Practitioner is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward AWS Solutions Architect Associate.