CAPM
Entry-level PMI certification validating foundational project management knowledge and terminology for those new to the field.
Full guide →PMI-ACP
PMI's agile certification covering Scrum, Kanban, Lean, XP, and SAFe — ideal for PMs transitioning to agile delivery.
Full guide →CAPM vs PMI-ACP
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | CAPM | PMI-ACP |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$300 USD | $495 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$8,000/yr | ✓+$15,000/yr |
| Passing score | 70/1000 | 70/1000 |
| Exam duration | 150 min | 180 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | PMI | PMI |
| Difficulty |
CAPM
High school diploma + 23 hours of project management education
PMI-ACP
2,000 hours general project experience + 1,500 hours agile experience + 21 hours agile education
- 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 have PM experience and want to formalise agile or multi-methodology skills
- You want a potential +$15,000/yr salary uplift
- You manage delivery across Scrum, Kanban, Lean, or SAFe environments
Both are in the project management field but target different career stages. Start with CAPM if you're building foundational skills — it's the natural stepping stone. Go straight to PMI-ACP if you already meet the prerequisites and want the higher salary ceiling (+$15,000/yr).
Best CAPM courses
Best PMI-ACP courses
Is CAPM harder than PMI-ACP?
PMI-ACP is harder — rated intermediate vs beginner.
Which pays more — CAPM or PMI-ACP?
CAPM has an average salary uplift of +$8,000/yr, while PMI-ACP has +$15,000/yr. PMI-ACP has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CAPM or PMI-ACP?
CAPM is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward PMI-ACP.
Can I get both CAPM and PMI-ACP?
Yes — many professionals hold both. CAPM and PMI-ACP complement each other within project management. Holding both signals broader expertise and typically commands a higher salary than either cert alone.
Which is worth it in 2026 — CAPM or PMI-ACP?
Both are worth it in 2026. CAPM offers a +$8,000/yr average salary uplift; PMI-ACP offers +$15,000/yr. PMI-ACP has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.