AWS Solutions Architect Associate vs CAPM
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 →PMI
CAPM
CAPM
Entry-level PMI certification validating foundational project management knowledge and terminology for those new to the field.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | AWS Solutions Architect Associate | CAPM |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $300 USD | $300 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$18,000/yr | +$8,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 130 min | 150 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | Amazon Web Services | PMI |
| Difficulty | Intermediate | Beginner |
AWS Solutions Architect Associate — Prerequisites
AWS Cloud Practitioner recommended, 1 year hands-on AWS experience
CAPM — Prerequisites
High school diploma + 23 hours of project management education
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 CAPM if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$8,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from PMI
Best AWS Solutions Architect Associate courses
Best CAPM courses
Frequently asked questions
Is AWS Solutions Architect Associate harder than CAPM?
AWS Solutions Architect Associate is harder — rated intermediate vs beginner.
Which pays more — AWS Solutions Architect Associate or CAPM?
AWS Solutions Architect Associate has an average salary uplift of +$18,000/yr, while CAPM has +$8,000/yr. AWS Solutions Architect Associate has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — AWS Solutions Architect Associate or CAPM?
CAPM is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward AWS Solutions Architect Associate.