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Thousands of CAPM users already accomplished their goals.The Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certification is a valuable tool that can help you stand out in the job market and improve your ability to work effectively on or with project teams, regardless of your current position.
Do you want to take on this challenge and handle bigger projects in your present position? Are you thinking about a change in job and want to improve your project management skills? CAPM will help you stand out to potential employers and demonstrate your dedication to professional growth.
The Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certification is the first step in becoming a certified associate in project management and is offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). This highly recognized certification addresses all of the fundamental ideas, processes, and jargon that are associated with effective project management.
In addition, the PMI framework was used as the foundation for the Certified Associate in Project Management certification, which also complies with the standards established in the PMBOK Guide (A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge). The examination evaluates a candidate's acquaintance with a variety of knowledge domains and process groups related to project management.
The ability of a candidate to pass the CAPM Certification test demonstrates that they possess the necessary skills and have a solid grasp of the principles of project management. In addition, those who have this degree are equipped to face the primary challenges that are associated with project management.
To be eligible for the test, you need to fulfill certain CAPM certification criteria. In addition to this, you will also need training in the administration of projects. The following are the two CAPM criteria that must be met in order to pass the exam:
Training for the CAPM test that lasts for a total of 23 hours must be completed by all candidates. You will also get the opportunity to acquire the necessary fundamental skills and knowledge. In conclusion, you will be able to improve your chances of successfully passing the examination.
The CAPM Examination Includes 150 multiple-choice questions. Of those 150 questions, there are 15 pre-test questions. This indicates that when you show up for the test, you will be required to answer all 200 questions, but your final score will only be based on the 135 questions that you get right. Your performance on the pre-test questions will not be included in your overall score. The test must be completed within the allotted period of three hours.
Have a short look at the rough draft of the proportion of questions coming from each subject that you may anticipate seeing on the exam:
Chapter |
Percentage of questions |
3rd Chapter |
15% |
4th Chapter |
12% |
5th Chapter |
11% |
6th Chapter |
12% |
7th Chapter |
7% |
8th Chapter |
6% |
9th Chapter |
8% |
10th Chapter |
6% |
11th Chapter |
9% |
12th Chapter |
7% |
13th Chapter |
7% |
Total |
100% |
The CAPM certification test does not have a predetermined minimum score to pass. On the other hand, it is thought that a success rate of 61 percent will be guaranteed. Despite the fact that it cannot be verified, you need to aim for a 70 percent success rate.
It is believed that if you pass your CAPM test with a score of 61 percent or more, you would be considered successful. Despite this, it has not been verified. The passing score for this test is not predetermined in any way. The percentages on your practice tests are where you need to focus the most of your attention if you want to make progress.
You should also have solid preparation if you want to do well on this test. You need to get a score of at least 70 percent or higher on the practice test if you wish to be successful. Your likelihood of passing the real test will directly correlate to how well you do on the practice test.
You should appear at the CAPM test site at least 30 minutes early, with a copy of your initial acceptance notification, a copy of your CAPM code, and a copy of your English identification. It is critical to come at least 30 minutes before the exam.
The exam lasts 3 hours with no scheduled breaks, and you are not permitted to bring gadgets, water, food, or a coat inside the room. If you bring a jacket or jewelry, you will be unable to remove them in the exam room, forcing you to sign in and out again, wasting time. Before the exam, there is an optional 15-minute survey that you can complete.
To get your CAPM, you must first pass one test. The following is a breakdown of the cost of the examination as of February 2024:
The annual membership charge for PMI is $129, and there is an additional one-time application fee of $10. Obtaining a CAPM certification as a new member now costs a total of $364 due to these additional fees. Access to a job board specializing in project management is one of the benefits of membership, along with reduced prices for further certifications that advance one's career and a free copy of the PMBOK Guide.
It is possible that you may qualify for the student bundle, which has a price tag of $257 if you are enrolled as a full-time student in a recognized degree-granting program. The cost of the CAPM test is further included in this total, in addition to the membership fee of $32. You might also talk to the professors who teach project management classes at your institution to find out if they have any bulk purchasing arrangements with PMI. If they do, this could result in further cost savings for you.
Whether you are already working and believe that the CAPM may be advantageous to your company, you may want to discuss the possibility of contacting your manager to find out if your firm would pay the price of the test and training.
Since the CAPM test is structured on PMI's framework, preparation for it is quite easy. It is possible to pass the CAPM provided that you follow the recommended study material and commit a sufficient amount of knowledge to memory. The fact that PMI does not publicize its pass/fail percentages, on the other hand, makes it somewhat more difficult to prepare.
If you are not confident in your ability to succeed in the CAPM Examination using just the PMBOK guide, taking a preparation course for the CAPM Exam is a fantastic method to guarantee that you will be acquainted with all of the topics that will be evaluated.
According to the Project Management Institute (PMI), chapters 3, 4, 5, and 6 of the PMBOK guide are the most important sections to memorize because they contain information that accounts for approximately 50 percent of the exam. The remaining 50 percent of the exam consists of information from seven other chapters. The PMI handbook, its structure, and all of the material included in it need to be thoroughly known to you in order for you to be successful in passing the exam.
The Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) credential may boost your career in a variety of ways. Let's have a look at some of the advantages of having a CAPM certification.
A candidate for CAPM certification is evaluated using severe requirements defined by PMI. These guidelines require the applicant to fulfill precise measurements of the individual's professional knowledge, education, and experience in the field. Candidates for the CAPM certification are required, as part of the assessment process, to adhere to the industry-standard ethics and code, in addition to maintaining a professional level of behavior.
Therefore, a CAPM-certified associate has a high level of expertise as well as extensive training in the project management discipline. As a consequence of this, a candidate's professional credibility is unquestionably increased as a result of having this certification.
The Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certification not only increases a candidate's knowledge of project management but also instills in them the leadership skills necessary to lead in the workplace. This allows the candidate to become more confident in their ability to lead projects.
Because this is a certification for beginners in project management, it also teaches newcomers to the field how to successfully manage a team in several different types of workplaces. Therefore, a CAPM-certified associate in project management may serve as an invaluable resource for any aspect of a company's operations.
A professional will get familiar with the most effective project management skill sets and practices by being familiar with the PMI PMBOK criteria. These guidelines are supplied via the CAPM certification. It provides professionals with the opportunity to acquire critical skills connected with project management, such as planning, executing, monitoring, and managing a project to bring it to a successful conclusion.
Competition exists in the area of project management, just as it does in every other professional sector. The number of people pursuing the CAPM certification throughout the globe is growing in tandem with the steadily increasing demand for certified associates in project management. The CAPM certification is widely recognized across the world and is acknowledged by all of the main businesses.
The most fascinating aspect of this certification is that it helps candidates fill the gap in project management abilities and knowledge that is connected to managerial responsibilities, even if the candidates have limited experience in project management. This is the most exciting aspect of this certification. As a result, CAPM-certified professionals have a greater number of options available to them in the employment market.
The CAPM is an entry-level certification in project management that is intended for individuals who have little or no prior experience working in the area of project management. As a result, the CAPM curriculum explains the core ideas of project management, as well as its terminology and best practices. As a result, it paves the way for them to pursue many other career profiles in addition to project management.
There is no question that possessing the CAPM certification acts as a bonus and often contributes to an increase in income of up to 25 percent. This is because the certification verifies a candidate's project management qualifications following PMI criteria. Because of the rising demand for CAPM certification among employers, a professional with the certification may ask for a greater wage than a professional who does not have the certification, even if they work for the same firm.
In addition, the CAPM certification, which is approved by the Project Management Institute (PMI), is regarded as one of the qualifications in the project management field that offers the best salary.
The Project Management Institute (PMI) offers two specialized credentials, Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)® and Project Management Professional (PMP)®, that boost credibility and present professionals with chances to develop their skills, take on bigger projects, and grow their careers. To match the type of certification with a person's intended professional goal, it is essential to comprehend the distinctions between PMP vs CAPM certification. Prerequisites, cost, roles and responsibilities, and how the credentials are viewed across industries are some of these variations.
Simply said, the PMP is at the professional level, whereas the CAPM is more entry-level. As a result, there are fewer requirements for the CAPM test, which is also easier and cost-saving than the PMP. The PMP certification, however, is typically more well-known, renowned, and likely to result in a higher income for you.
When contrasting PMP vs CAPM generally, this high-level summary is useful. Let's quickly review the distinctions between CAPM and PMP shown in this table:
[table id=121 /]
The following are the requirements for taking the CAPM exam:
OR
Because those seeking CAPM certification are not requested to have experience in project management or a four-year degree, the CAPM is perfect for recent community college graduates or even current students looking to add a credential that shows commitment to a professional life in project management to their resume.
While the CAPM is great for those just starting out in their professions, candidates must have completed 23 hours of project management training before taking the exam. Project management education can be conducted online, allowing individuals to meet this need without interfering with their professional or academic obligations. As part of a degree program, several colleges may also provide project management instruction at this level.
The following are the prerequisites for the PMP certification exam:
OR
While a bachelor's degree is not required for the PMP certification, candidates with a four-year degree get a considerable advantage. Unlike the CAPM, which needs 1,500 hours of general work experience, PMP applicants with only a secondary degree must include 7,500 hours of experience managing and directing projects to qualify, while those who have a four-year degree only need 4,500 hours.
Furthermore, the PMP certification takes 35 hours of project management training, but the CAPM requires only 23 hours. Purdue's online Project Management Essentials course meets both certificates' hourly requirements.
The PMP certification exam is more expensive than the CAPM certification exam. Non-PMI members pay $555 for the PMP, while non-members pay $300 for the CAPM. Here is a breakdown of their expenses.
A PMI membership costs $129 per year, plus a $10 one-time application fee.
A PMP earns a yearly salary of $103,000. This is a big increase over the $65,000 average yearly income for a CAPM. Projects in highly specialized industries, such as IT, tend to have higher potential earnings.
Although the average income of a CAPM is not insignificant, the PMP is more lucrative in terms of earning potential. In fact, the Project Management Institute (PMI) stated in its 2018 Earning Power Survey that PMP certification holders make 20% more on average than non-certified project managers.
When picking between CAPM and PMP, it is useful to compare prerequisites, exam difficulty, and cost. Understanding what a CAPM or PMP certification holder does in the real world, on the other hand, may be more significant. After all, obtaining a certification is really a means to an end. If the roles that a certification qualifies you for do not meet your expectations, you should reconsider your choice.
After earning your PMP, you will be ready for full-time project management positions in which you will manage projects of all sizes. Positions such as program manager, project manager, and project controller are all possible. You should anticipate taking on large, difficult projects in these professions. You will be required to get them to their destination on schedule and on budget.
Prior project management expertise is assumed at the PMP level, and performance requirements are high. Companies will look for PMPs who can apply project management best practices to assist them to reach their goals.
If your project management credentials and experience are limited to the CAPM, you will most likely begin in entry-level positions. You'll almost certainly be qualified for jobs like assistant project manager, project coordinator, and junior business analyst. In these positions, you will be able to put your talents in scheduling, team coordination, and facilitating good communication to use. You are unlikely to be in charge of significant projects with large expenditures just because of your CAPM certification.
However, if you already have extensive technical knowledge, the CAPM may assist drive you to a position of leadership. A CAPM, for example, may be the push a developer needs to become a team leader. Similarly, a CAPM may be able to persuade your company to add project management responsibilities to your current position. This, in turn, opens the door to a full-time project management role in the future.
While we're here, it's worth noting that a single certification is merely one component of what qualifies you for a specific role. When hiring, employers will consider experience, performance, and other factors. Everyone's scenario is unique, and your mileage may vary.
CAPM certification can help you receive a 35-hour education requirement exemption for PMP as an active CAPM credential holder, which is advantageous for people just starting out in project management. It also allows you to demonstrate your capacity to handle larger projects and additional responsibility by applying your project management skills in your current work. CAPM certification is frequently a minimal requirement for project managers, and it can strengthen your resume and lend credibility to your job experience.
PMP certification is important for project managers who want to advance in their jobs. It allows you to demonstrate your abilities, passion, and ability to apply project management principles to real-world issues in order to achieve positive outcomes for an organization. This certification has stringent standards, so it may help you strengthen your resume and land a job as a project management specialist. It may also assist you in obtaining higher-paying project management employment with greater autonomy and responsibility.
It can be difficult to decide if a CAPM or PMP certification is better for your career as a project manager. Simply said, if you match the PMP certification requirements, it is unquestionably the best option. Even if you meet some but not all of the standards, it's probably worth your time to study for the PMP exam.
Here are some factors to consider when deciding between the CAPM and PMP exams. You can decide whether to pursue a CAPM or a PMP certification based on how you answer some of these questions.
At what stage of your career are you? Are you just starting out in your career and want to go into project management, or do you already have some experience?
If you're just getting started in project management, taking the CAPM exam is likely the best way to demonstrate your abilities and move toward obtaining the PMP certification. Pursuing the PMP certification is definitely the preferable alternative for people with more experience and a solid understanding of project management basics in terms of earning potential and professional advancement.
The CAPM credential may also be more suitable if you have numerous designations or work in a more technical job but wish to take on more responsibility as a team leader or obtain a raise. Those who do not want to be full-time project managers can utilize a CAPM as an addition to their current position.
How much money are you willing to spend on a certification? While both examinations might be costly, the PMP exam can cost between $180 and 255 more depending on your PMI membership level. You must also evaluate the potential training expenditures associated with meeting the education requirement. However, the increased initial expense is offset by a higher average compensation while becoming a PMP.
Before making a decision, check with your company to see whether they are willing to fund the cost of the exam. Because obtaining a PMP certification benefits your firm as a whole, many employers will cover the entire exam expense for its project managers.
As a PMP credential holder, you will be qualified for full-time project management employment that pays more and involves managing projects of all sizes. In positions such as program manager, project manager, and project controller, you will be more likely to oversee larger, more complex projects with larger budgets.
You will most likely be qualified for employment as an assistant project manager, project coordinator, or project management associate if you have a CAPM certification. Coordinating intra- and inter-team scheduling, as well as facilitating good communication, are more frequent in these roles.
After obtaining a PMP, you might expect a wage rise, especially in specialized industries. According to the PMI Earning Power Salary Survey, PMP credential holders make 20% more than non-PMP certificate holders. However, the income increase that comes with a CAPM certification is definitely worth the time and effort.
Many of our Project Management Essentials students go on to complete this 100% online, self-study exam prep, which is a rigorous, in-depth PMP practice test and CAPM practice test topic that assist students in strengthening their understanding of PM principles and developing a comprehensive study plan. It contains four live webinars led by an instructor that provides an in-depth examination of some of the most difficult learning topics.
The Project Management Institute (PMI) offers the Certified Associate Project Management (CAPM) Certification as an entry-level Project Management Certification. So, if you're just getting started in project management, CAPM Certification is a good investment. Given the expanding demand for project managers worldwide, a career in project management is a wise decision. If you want to pursue a career in Project Management, getting the correct credentials can help you thrive and improve your career.
So, “Is CAPM worth it?” and how it may provide you with multiple rewards such as fantastic compensation perks and global recognition, among others. We will look at the prerequisites for qualifying for the CAPM Certification as well as how to earn the CAPM Certification in a few steps.
To sit for the CAPM exam, you must have finished a secondary degree (high school diploma, associate's degree, or the equivalent in another nation) and 23 hours of project management courses. CAPM holders must also obtain 15 PDUs every three years to keep their certification active. For further information, please read our article about CAMP requirements!
CAPM®, or Certified Associate in Project Management, is a well-known project management credential. A professional's salary will rise by 25% after obtaining CAPM certification. While this depends on a variety of factors such as job description and country, certification is an asset to any resume. As a result, certified candidates are more likely to command higher pay than non-certified professionals. We will examine CAPM certification salary and how much professionals earn according to their job roles and experience in this part.
The PMI Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certification is among the highest-paying, with an annual salary average of $68K.
Candidates' salaries vary depending on their job role, experience, and even gender. A candidate with less than a year of experience will earn a median annual salary of $51,610, rising to $77,914 with 10 years of experience or more.
PMI's Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certification is widely regarded as one of the best in the world today. Candidates who complete the course will have the following skills:
Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) is the only in-depth, comprehensive project management course that teaches topics such as scope management, cost and time management, integration and quality management, risk management, human resource management, stakeholder and procurement management, and others.
A CAPM-certified professional's knowledge can be used to achieve high levels of competence in project management practice. The primary benefits of this certification include global professional recognition, enhanced career and growth opportunities, and a high salary.
The field of project management is well-known. Recent advancements in job technicalities, as well as an increase in duties, have made the role extremely adaptable. Furthermore, employers seeking capable experts will use CAPM certification as a criterion. CAPM is an ideal choice if you wish to significantly advance your career. Invensis provides a variety of project management courses as well as a learning path to assist aspiring project managers in obtaining certifications. We are not limited to CAPM certifications and other useful courses for any project management career.
Here’s the short answer: absolutely!
Whether you're seeking a job in project management or a way to advance your career, obtaining CAPM certification can assist. Having said that, if you have the requisite qualifications, getting the PMP certification right away is often a better alternative (even if it will require a little more legwork upfront). However, if you're just getting started, CAPM certification will give you all of the necessary foundations—all while making you look good.
Are you still unsure whether you should pursue the CAPM certification? This article will provide you with an outline of what you may expect in terms of pay and work roles after earning the CAPM certification. Nonetheless, if you work in or want to work in project management, a CAPM certification is a smart alternative.
However, like with any other certification, you will need to prepare for the CAPM test in order to pass it on your first try. You can reach excellence if you have access to good training courses, reference materials, and a study schedule. Keeping this in mind, Passemall provides a CAPM practice test pack that will guide you through the full preparation process.
No, membership in the PMI is not required. There are several advantages to becoming a member:
PMI members save significantly on the PMP exam application fee. This discount exceeds the cost of becoming a PMI member.
PMI members are entitled to a complimentary PDF copy of the PMBOK Guide.
Maintaining your PMP Certification is easier when you use the free materials and tools provided to you as a PMI member.
Furthermore, many local PMI chapters provide discounts to PMI members for training, chapter meetings, and activities.
Even if you are just starting out in project management or are a part of a project team that wants to show your knowledge and expertise, you can still get the CAPM certification and be recognized in the industry.
Candidates for the certification are sorted into two categories: those who have made project management their primary focus and those who want to demonstrate their competence. In addition, the PMI provides a collection of terminology, rules, procedures, and exemplary practices in its PMBOK Guide. These are meant to be highlighted in the CAPM examination since they are universally acknowledged practices.
You have the opportunity to retake the examination if the first attempt at it was unsuccessful. You are permitted up to three attempts at the CAPM test within a single year by PMI. If you choose to repeat the exam, you will be required to pay either $150 (if you are a member) or $200 (if you are not a member) each time. On the other hand, if you are unsuccessful all three times, you won't be able to attempt the test for another year.
Those who have obtained the CAPM certification are now obliged to accumulate professional development units (PDUs) every three years in order to keep their certification current.
People who have the CAPM designation after their name are seen with a high degree of trust by people who have the PMP certification, people who manage projects, employers, and their colleagues. You are not permitted to apply for the CAPM certification unless you can demonstrate that you have the necessary level of education as well as professional experience.
You have the option of scheduling the CAPM test over the phone or online, and once you do so, you will have a total of ninety days to finish the exam. You have the option of scheduling your CAPM examination before finishing your required 23 hours of study. You will only be counted as having completed those hours if you actually take the examination. Before the thirty-day mark, you are free to make a request to postpone or cancel the appointment, but after that, the fee is seventy dollars.
The precise period of time varies from person to person based on their preferred method of education and their degree of ease. In addition to the time spent in class, students should generally prepare themselves to spend anywhere between 20 and 40 hours engaged in academic pursuits.
PMI recognizes that some project work and education are difficult to validate. Ideally, you should aim to get in touch with someone in power who was a part of the organization while you were and can validate your time and training. It does not have to be an official organizational representative; a colleague or former coworker is sufficient.
Typically, online applications are processed within five business days. Individual mail-in applications take roughly 10 working days. Corporate applications received by mail require 20 business days to process. PMI will electronically email the Examination Scheduling Instructions once the application and fee have been completed, verifying that the candidate is entitled to take the exam.
Most businesses ask for the CAPM qualification for anyone who desires to work as a project manager. Employers value globally recognized CAPM qualifications, and individuals who hold the certification are thought to be better prepared to take on project management responsibilities.
The average salary for a CAPM in the United States is $80,000, according to PayScale. According to a survey, the best-paying city in the United States for a CAPM is New York City, followed by Austin, Colombo, and Massachusetts.
Project planning, monitoring and executing a project, cost allocation, budgeting, and risk management are among the most important skills for a Certified Associate in Project Management.
So, you're still uncertain about being certified as a CAPM professional? With regard to one's education and job advancement, it's certainly a plus. You must prepare well for this exam since you'll have to spend money and study a wide range of materials, just like any other certification.
In this light, proper training and example questions are as important as the PMBOK manual. Also, time-bound exam simulators such as practice test series may be quite beneficial in preparing for the exam.