PMI-ACP vs PRINCE2 Foundation
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
PMI
PMI-ACP
PMI-ACP
PMI's agile certification covering Scrum, Kanban, Lean, XP, and SAFe — ideal for PMs transitioning to agile delivery.
Full guide →Axelos
PRINCE2 Foundation
PRINCE2 Foundation
Widely recognised in Europe and the UK, PRINCE2 Foundation validates understanding of the PRINCE2 project management framework.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | PMI-ACP | PRINCE2 Foundation |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $495 USD | ✓$400 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$15,000/yr | +$10,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 180 min | 60 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | PMI | Axelos |
| Difficulty | Intermediate | Beginner |
PMI-ACP — Prerequisites
2,000 hours general project experience + 1,500 hours agile experience + 21 hours agile education
PRINCE2 Foundation — Prerequisites
None required
Get PMI-ACP if…
- •You have 2–3 years of IT experience and want to specialise
- •You want a +$15,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from PMI
Get PRINCE2 Foundation if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$10,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from Axelos
Best PMI-ACP courses
Best PRINCE2 Foundation courses
Frequently asked questions
Is PMI-ACP harder than PRINCE2 Foundation?
PMI-ACP is harder — rated intermediate vs beginner.
Which pays more — PMI-ACP or PRINCE2 Foundation?
PMI-ACP has an average salary uplift of +$15,000/yr, while PRINCE2 Foundation has +$10,000/yr. PMI-ACP has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — PMI-ACP or PRINCE2 Foundation?
PRINCE2 Foundation is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward PMI-ACP.