CAPM
Entry-level PMI certification validating foundational project management knowledge and terminology for those new to the field.
Full guide →AWS Cloud Practitioner
Entry-level AWS certification validating foundational cloud concepts, core services, security, and pricing models.
Full guide →CAPM vs AWS Cloud Practitioner
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | CAPM | AWS Cloud Practitioner |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $300 USD | ✓$100 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$8,000/yr | +$8,000/yr |
| Passing score | 70/1000 | 700/1000 |
| Exam duration | 150 min | 90 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | PMI | Amazon Web Services |
| Difficulty |
CAPM
High school diploma + 23 hours of project management education
AWS Cloud Practitioner
None required
- You're new to project management or switching careers from another field
- You want a potential +$8,000/yr salary uplift
- Your organisation runs on PMI and you need the recognised entry-level credential
- 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
CAPM and AWS Cloud Practitioner lead to entirely different careers — project management vs cloud computing. The right choice depends on which field aligns with your current job or target role. If you want both eventually, start with CAPM — it's the quicker win at the beginner level.
Best CAPM courses
Best AWS Cloud Practitioner courses
Is CAPM harder than AWS Cloud Practitioner?
Both CAPM and AWS Cloud Practitioner are rated beginner difficulty.
Which pays more — CAPM or AWS Cloud Practitioner?
CAPM has an average salary uplift of +$8,000/yr, while AWS Cloud Practitioner has +$8,000/yr. CAPM has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CAPM or AWS Cloud Practitioner?
CAPM is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward AWS Cloud Practitioner.
Can I get both CAPM and AWS Cloud Practitioner?
Yes — many professionals hold both. CAPM and AWS Cloud Practitioner complement each other, covering project management and cloud computing respectively. Holding both signals broader expertise and typically commands a higher salary than either cert alone.
Which is worth it in 2026 — CAPM or AWS Cloud Practitioner?
Both are worth it in 2026. CAPM offers a +$8,000/yr average salary uplift; AWS Cloud Practitioner offers +$8,000/yr. CAPM has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.