Wondering which project management certification—PMI-ACP or CAPM—will add the most value to your career in 2025?
In today’s competitive job market, earning a respected certification can be a powerful way to set yourself apart and enhance your project management skills. Among the top choices, PMI-ACP and CAPM stand out as popular options for professionals aiming to expand their expertise, gain recognition, and open doors to new career opportunities.
As more companies look for individuals with specialised qualifications, the demand for certifications is increasing. However, with many certifications available, each offering its benefits and challenges, choosing the one that best aligns with your career path and goals can be a daunting task.
This blog aims to explore the unique aspects of PMI-ACP and CAPM, backed by industry insights and practical advice, to guide you in making an informed decision on the best certification for your career aspirations.
Table of Contents
PMI-ACP vs CAPM – Roles and Salary Comparison
Understanding the typical roles and earning potential of PMI-ACP vs. CAPM professionals can help you decide which path to pursue. Here’s a closer look at what each certification could mean for your career:
- PMI-ACP holders often work in agile environments as Agile Project Managers, Scrum Masters, or Product Owners. These roles are essential in tech and creative sectors, where flexibility and rapid iteration are highly valued.
- CAPM is ideal for entry-level project managers or those transitioning into project management. It’s a solid foundation for roles such as Assistant Project Manager, Project Coordinator, or PMO Analyst.
According to our ACP salary blog and other industry data, PMI-ACP certified professionals generally command higher salaries than those with a CAPM certification. However, this varies widely by industry and region.
Eligibility Criteria for PMI-ACP and CAPM
When choosing between the PMI-ACP and CAPM certifications, it’s essential to consider the eligibility criteria, as each certification has distinct requirements that cater to different levels of experience and training.
| Certification | Education | Experience | Training/Education Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| PMI-ACP | Secondary diploma or higher | 24 months of agile experience within the last 5 years (PMP® holders meet this requirement, but it’s not mandatory) | 28 hours in agile practices (21 hours accepted until 31 March 2025) |
| CAPM | Secondary diploma, GED, or equivalent | None | 23 hours of project management education (can be met with PMI’s CAPM Prep Course) |
PMI-ACP requires both project and agile experience, making it ideal for professionals already working in agile environments. CAPM is more accessible for newcomers without project management experience.
PMI-ACP vs CAPM – Exam Pattern
Understanding the exam patterns for PMI-ACP and CAPM can help you set realistic expectations and tailor your preparation accordingly. The table below highlights the structure and focus areas of each exam:
| Certification | Exam Format | Number of Questions | Duration | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PMI-ACP | Multiple-choice, situational & conceptual | $120 | 3 hours | Emphasis on real-world application in agile environments |
| CAPM | Multiple-choice, foundational concepts | $150 | 3 hours | Focus on theoretical understanding of project management fundamentals |
The PMI-ACP exam is intended for those who are comfortable applying agile concepts in practical scenarios, whereas the CAPM exam is suited for individuals seeking to build a solid foundation in project management theory.
PMI-ACP vs CAPM – Cost Comparison
Budgeting for certification exams is important, as costs can vary significantly between options. Here’s a breakdown of the exam fees for PMI-ACP and CAPM:
| Certification | Member Price | Non-Member Price |
|---|---|---|
| PMI-ACP | $305 | $347 |
| CAPM | $158 | $210 |
In addition to exam fees, consider other potential costs such as study materials, preparatory courses, and any recertification fees. The PMI-ACP certification is typically more costly, but for professionals in agile project management roles, in particular, it often ends in a higher return on investment through enhanced salary potential.
PMI-ACP vs CAPM – Which Certification is Better?
Deciding between PMI-ACP and CAPM depends largely on your career goals, experience level, and the industry you’re targeting. The table below highlights the strengths of each certification to help you make an informed choice.
| Certification | Best For | Ideal Sectors | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| PMI-ACP | Professionals aiming for agile roles | Agile settings, technology sectors | Focuses on real-world agile applications, valuable in high-demand agile environments |
| CAPM | Beginners in project management or those validating general PM skills | General project management across various industries | Provides a solid foundation in project management principles, accessible without prior experience |
Both certifications offer unique advantages, so reflect on your career aspirations before making a decision. For those ready to dive deeper, check out our courses for PMI-ACP and CAPM.
Boost Your PMI-ACP Exam Preparation with Key Resources
Enhance your PMI-ACP exam preparation with these essential study tools that will help you prepare as much as possible:
- PMI-ACP Exam Prep Course: With the help of our PMI-ACP Course, you can acquire a thorough understanding of agile practices and principles.
- PMI-ACP Real Practice Exams: Use our PMI-ACP Real Practice Exams to assess your readiness and familiarise yourself with the exam style.
Ready to take the next step in your agile career? Join our PMI-ACP Course today to get certified and unlock your full potential in agile project management!
Ready to Begin Your CAPM Certification Journey?
At PM Training School, we offer a range of resources to help you succeed in earning your CAPM certification:
- CAPM Prep Course: Our comprehensive CAPM course covers all the essential topics included in the CAPM exam, designed to prepare you thoroughly and increase your chances of passing on the first try. You’ll gain a strong understanding of project management principles, terms, and methodologies.
- CAPM Practice Exams: Test your knowledge and get a feel for the exam format with our realistic practice exams. These CAPM practice exams help you gauge your readiness and identify areas where you might need further study, ensuring you’re fully prepared when exam day arrives.
With our guidance and support, becoming CAPM-certified is within your reach. Start your preparation with PM Training School today, and take a confident step forward in your project management career!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are answers to some of the most common questions professionals ask about PMI-ACP and CAPM certifications:
Which is easier to pass, PMI-ACP or CAPM?
Generally, CAPM is considered easier to pass than PMI-ACP, as it covers foundational project management knowledge rather than agile-specific practices. PMI-ACP requires a deeper understanding of agile methodologies, making it more challenging, especially for those unfamiliar with agile environments.
Do I need work experience to take the CAPM exam?
No, CAPM does not require prior project management experience, which makes it an accessible option for those new to the field. However, PMI-ACP does require specific experience in both general project management and agile project work.
Can I switch from CAPM to PMI-ACP later on?
Yes, many professionals start with CAPM and then pursue PMI-ACP as they gain more experience in agile environments. This path allows you to build a strong project management foundation with CAPM before specialising with PMI-ACP.
How long does it take to prepare for PMI-ACP and CAPM exams?
Preparation time varies by individual, but on average, it can take 1-3 months to prepare for CAPM and 3-6 months for PMI-ACP, depending on prior knowledge, experience, and study commitment.
Is PMI-ACP better than CAPM for career growth?
It depends on your career goals. PMI-ACP is highly valued in agile and tech-driven industries, potentially offering faster career growth in these areas. CAPM is a good choice for those starting out in general project management or looking to establish a PM foundation.
Conclusion
We hope this blog has helped you better understand the PMI-ACP and CAPM certifications, as well as how each can help you pursue different career paths in project management. Whether you want to advance in agile-focused roles or establish a solid foundation in general project management, choosing the right certification can have a big impact on your professional development and opportunities.
So, which certification do you feel aligns best with your career goals in 2025?
If you’re ready to take the next step, enquire now to learn more about our training courses designed to support your journey toward certification success.
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