PMP vs AWS Solutions Architect Associate
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
PMI
PMP
PMP
The gold-standard project management certification recognized globally — validates ability to lead projects across any methodology.
Full guide →Amazon Web Services
AWS Solutions Architect Associate
SAA-C03
The most sought-after cloud certification — covers designing resilient, high-performing, cost-optimised AWS architectures.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | PMP | AWS Solutions Architect Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $555 USD | ✓$300 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$25,000/yr | +$18,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 230 min | 130 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | PMI | Amazon Web Services |
| Difficulty | Advanced | Intermediate |
PMP — Prerequisites
4-year degree + 36 months leading projects + 35 hours PM education (or 60 months with high school diploma)
AWS Solutions Architect Associate — Prerequisites
AWS Cloud Practitioner recommended, 1 year hands-on AWS experience
Get PMP if…
- •You're aiming for senior or management roles in security
- •You want a +$25,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from PMI
Get AWS Solutions Architect Associate if…
- •You have 2–3 years of IT experience and want to specialise
- •You want a +$18,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from Amazon Web Services
Best PMP courses
Best AWS Solutions Architect Associate courses
Frequently asked questions
Is PMP harder than AWS Solutions Architect Associate?
PMP is harder — rated advanced vs intermediate.
Which pays more — PMP or AWS Solutions Architect Associate?
PMP has an average salary uplift of +$25,000/yr, while AWS Solutions Architect Associate has +$18,000/yr. PMP has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — PMP or AWS Solutions Architect Associate?
AWS Solutions Architect Associate is the better starting point — it's rated intermediate and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward PMP.