PMP
The gold-standard project management certification recognized globally — validates ability to lead projects across any methodology.
Full guide →AWS Cloud Practitioner
Entry-level AWS certification validating foundational cloud concepts, core services, security, and pricing models.
Full guide →PMP vs AWS Cloud Practitioner
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | PMP | AWS Cloud Practitioner |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $555 USD | ✓$100 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$25,000/yr | +$8,000/yr |
| Passing score | 70/1000 | 700/1000 |
| Exam duration | 230 min | 90 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | PMI | Amazon Web Services |
| Difficulty |
PMP
4-year degree + 36 months leading projects + 35 hours PM education (or 60 months with high school diploma)
AWS Cloud Practitioner
None required
- You're a seasoned PM targeting the most globally recognised credential
- You want a potential +$25,000/yr salary uplift
- 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
PMP 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 AWS Cloud Practitioner — it's the quicker win at the beginner level.
Best PMP courses
Best AWS Cloud Practitioner courses
Is PMP harder than AWS Cloud Practitioner?
PMP is harder — rated advanced vs beginner.
Which pays more — PMP or AWS Cloud Practitioner?
PMP has an average salary uplift of +$25,000/yr, while AWS Cloud Practitioner has +$8,000/yr. PMP has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — PMP or AWS Cloud Practitioner?
AWS Cloud Practitioner is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward PMP.
Can I get both PMP and AWS Cloud Practitioner?
Yes — many professionals hold both. PMP 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 — PMP or AWS Cloud Practitioner?
Both are worth it in 2026. PMP offers a +$25,000/yr average salary uplift; AWS Cloud Practitioner offers +$8,000/yr. PMP has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.