Both come from PMI — but they target different roles and career stages. Here's how Certified Associate in Project Management and Project Management Professional compare, and how to choose.
The fastest way to see which credential fits your experience and goals.
| CAPM®Certified Associate in Project Management | PMP®Project Management Professional | |
|---|---|---|
| Level | Entry | Professional |
| Exam length | 3h 0m | 4h 0m |
| Questions (real exam) | ~150 | ~180 |
| Pass mark | 70% | 70% |
| In a sentence | Your first PM credential — no experience required. | The gold standard in project management. |
| Free practice | 150 sample questions | 150 sample questions |
Exam parameters are compiled from each vendor's official exam guide. Always confirm the current format, eligibility and fees on the official PMI site before booking. ExamDeck is an independent study tool and is not affiliated with PMI.
Figures as published by each vendor, transcribed on the date shown. Where a vendor prices differently for members, both prices are listed.
| CAPM®facts as of August 2026 | PMP®facts as of September 2026 | |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | Exam fee — PMI member: ~$225 (verify on pmi.org) Exam fee — non-member: ~$300 (verify on pmi.org) Retake: ~$150 member / ~$200 non-member Required education: 23 contact hours (PM) Renewal (every 3 yrs): 15 PDUs under the CCR program |
Exam fee — PMI member: $445 (raised Aug 6, 2026) Exam fee — non-member: $675 (raised Aug 6, 2026) PMI membership (optional): ~$139/yr Reschedule: $70 Renewal (every 3 yrs): 60 PDUs under the CCR program |
| Study time | commonly reported 60–150 hours beyond the mandatory 23 contact hours | commonly reported 35–120+ hours depending on PM background and prep course |
| Renewal | 15 PDUs every 3 years under PMI's CCR program (since the 2023 update — no re-exam needed) | 60 PDUs every 3 years under PMI's Continuing Certification Requirements (CCR) program |
| Entry requirement | Secondary degree (high school diploma or global equivalent), | Four routes, all requiring 35 hours of PM training (waived if you hold an active CAPM): |
| Body of knowledge | the official CAPM Examination Content Outline | the official PMI Examination Content Outline |
| Full fact pages | CAPM® cost · format · eligibility | PMP® cost · format · eligibility |
Compare the three-year cost of any two certifications, member or not, with the certification cost calculator.
Original, expert-reviewed questions with an explanation for every option. No dumps, no ads.
Both come from PMI. CAPM® (Certified Associate in Project Management) is a Entry credential, while PMP® (Project Management Professional) is a Professional credential. They differ mainly in target role, exam length and depth.
The CAPM® exam runs about 3h 0m with ~150 questions; the PMP® exam runs about 4h 0m with ~180 questions. The more senior credential generally demands more applied, scenario-based judgement.
Yes. A free account gets 6 sample questions in study mode for each of CAPM® and PMP®, with an explanation for every option, plus a 10-question diagnostic for each. No credit card required.
Try CAPM® or PMP® practice in study mode, with full explanations and sources. No card required.
Start free →