PMI-ACP
PMI's agile certification covering Scrum, Kanban, Lean, XP, and SAFe — ideal for PMs transitioning to agile delivery.
Full guide →CAPM
Entry-level PMI certification validating foundational project management knowledge and terminology for those new to the field.
Full guide →PMI-ACP vs CAPM
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | PMI-ACP | CAPM |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $495 USD | ✓$300 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$15,000/yr | +$8,000/yr |
| Passing score | 70/1000 | 70/1000 |
| Exam duration | 180 min | 150 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | PMI | PMI |
| Difficulty |
PMI-ACP
2,000 hours general project experience + 1,500 hours agile experience + 21 hours agile education
CAPM
High school diploma + 23 hours of project management education
- 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
- 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
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 PMI-ACP courses
Best CAPM courses
Is PMI-ACP harder than CAPM?
PMI-ACP is harder — rated intermediate vs beginner.
Which pays more — PMI-ACP or CAPM?
PMI-ACP has an average salary uplift of +$15,000/yr, while CAPM has +$8,000/yr. PMI-ACP has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — PMI-ACP or CAPM?
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 PMI-ACP and CAPM?
Yes — many professionals hold both. PMI-ACP and CAPM 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 — PMI-ACP or CAPM?
Both are worth it in 2026. PMI-ACP offers a +$15,000/yr average salary uplift; CAPM offers +$8,000/yr. PMI-ACP has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.