The Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certification might be your perfect stepping stone! CAPM is a globally recognized entry-level certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI) that validates your understanding of fundamental project management principles and processes.
A Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certification will add value to your career, even if the cost seems to be a little steep at first look. However, you should know the various cost components before considering a CAPM certification.
Today, we will delve into why CAPM certification is a worthy investment for your professional growth and knowing the CAPM certification cost.
We will review the cost breakdown of obtaining your CAPM certification, as well as any costs of recertification. This will help professionals determine if the certification and subsequent upkeep make sense for your budget. Let us look at the components involved in getting a CAPM certification:
Cost #1: Examination Fee
The CAPM certification exam cost is a mandatory fee that you must pay online directly to PMI. You pay $225 for the examination if you are a PMI member. If you are not a PMI member, you pay $300.
The annual membership fee for PMI is $129.
Cost #2: Re-Examination Fee
To pass the CAPM exam, you must make three attempts in a single year. The fee for PMI Members is $150, and for non-PMI members, it is $200.
Cost #3: Recertification Fee
The CAPM certification is valid for five years. You can choose to renew it before it expires or afterward. The recertification fee for PMI members and non-members is $150 and $200 if you renew the certificate before it expires.
Cost #4: CAPM Renewal Fee
If you do not renew your certification within five years, the certification process starts as a fresh process for you. In that case, the fee becomes $225 for members and non-members.
Cost #5: PMBOK®Guide - Seventh Edition
The PMBOK®Guide - Seventh Edition is available as a free download for PMI members, but it is not printable. Both members and non-members can buy a printed copy from pmi.org or Amazon for $49.5 or $99.
Cost #6: Reference Books
A good reference book costs about $50. You can check the prices online.
Cost #7: CAPM Training Cost
It may or may not be necessary for you to take 23 hours of formal training before the certification examination. The CAPM course fees are between $150 - $250.
Cost #8: Simulation Test Cost
A good simulation test costs about $50- $100 if you want to take some practice questions before you appear for the actual exam.
Cost #9: Other Study Material
Any extra study material you buy to improve your exam preparation will cost about $50- $100.
The total cost of CAPM certification will vary. Several factors decide the cost: the location you stay in, the training you undergo, the study aids you purchase, and so on. An indicative cost of CAPM certification is as follows:
Examination Fee (for PMI Members) | $225 |
Examination Fee (for Non-PMI Members) | $300 |
Membership Fee | $129 |
PMBOK®Guide - Seventh Edition | $49.50 |
Reference Book | $50 |
Training Fee | $250 |
Simulation Test | $60 |
Other Study Aids | $100 |
The CAPM certification cost is a worthwhile investment for individuals seeking to establish a career in project management. While it may involve various expenses, the benefits of becoming a Certified Associate in Project Management far outweigh the initial financial outlay. The certification enhances your credibility and expertise in the field and opens up many career opportunities across diverse industries and geographical locations.
The CAPM exam price varies depending on whether you are a PMI member. As of 2024, the exam fee for PMI members is approximately USD 225, while non-members must pay around USD 300.
CAPM certification holders need to renew their certification every five years. As of 2024, the renewal fee for PMI members is approximately USD 60, while non-members must pay around USD 150 for the renewal process.
The CAPM certification is valid for five years from the date you pass the exam. To maintain your certification beyond the initial validity period, you must earn Professional Development Units (PDUs) by participating in project management activities and continuing education. These PDUs demonstrate your commitment be updated with industry trends and best practices.
The exam fee for PMI CAPM certification is typically consistent globally. However, due to currency exchange rates and other factors, there may be slight variations in the exam cost for different countries. PMI sets the standard exam fees, but any local taxes or fees may be added to the base cost, leading to slight differences in pricing.
The CAPM exam fee covers the exam's cost but does not typically include study materials or resources. Aspiring candidates must acquire study materials, including textbooks, online courses, practice exams, and other resources to prepare for the CAPM exam. PMI does offer various study materials and resources for purchase, and some third-party providers also offer exam preparation courses at additional costs.
What industries can I work in with a CAPM certification?
CAPM certification is versatile and valuable in almost any industry involving projects. This includes IT, healthcare, construction, finance, consulting, manufacturing, and more.
Is the CAPM certification a valuable addition if I'm already in a project management role?
Obtaining a CAPM certification can validate your skills and knowledge if you're already working in a project management role without formal certification. It also helps you gain a more structured understanding of project management processes.
Can I use the CAPM certification to negotiate a higher salary?
While the CAPM certification can enhance your earning potential, salary negotiations are influenced by various factors, including your experience, location, the specific job role, and the organization's compensation policies.
How does the CAPM certification set me apart from other candidates?
Having the CAPM certification showcases your dedication to learning and your commitment to the project management field. It gives you a competitive edge when applying for entry-level project management positions.
Can I transition from other roles to project management with a CAPM certification?
Yes, many professionals transition into project management with the help of a CAPM certification. If you have transferable skills and a desire to work in project management, CAPM can provide you with the necessary knowledge to make the switch.
How can I demonstrate my CAPM certification on my resume and LinkedIn profile?
You can include your CAPM certification in the "Education" or "Certifications" section of your resume. On LinkedIn, you can add it under the "Licenses & Certifications" section. Be sure to mention your achievement in your summary or headline as well.
Is the CAPM certification recognized by employers?
Yes, CAPM is recognized by employers around the world. It's offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), a highly respected organization in project management.
Can I apply for higher-level project management roles after gaining experience with a CAPM certification?
Absolutely. As you gain experience working on projects and demonstrate your skills, you can work up to more senior project management roles. CAPM can serve as a foundation for further growth and development in the field.
How can the CAPM certification enhance my career prospects?
CAPM certification demonstrates your commitment to project management and willingness to learn and apply principles. This can make you a more attractive candidate for entry-level project management positions.
Can I work internationally with a CAPM certification?
Yes, CAPM is a globally recognized certification. It demonstrates your understanding of universal project management principles, making it valuable for pursuing project management roles internationally.
Do I need previous work experience to get a job with CAPM certification?
One of the advantages of CAPM certification is that it's designed for individuals with limited or no project management work experience. It's a great way to enter and build your project management career.
How can I choose a reputable CAPM training provider?
Look for training providers that PMI approves. Check for reviews, testimonials, and recommendations from individuals who have taken the training. Ensure the training covers the CAPM exam content outline and offers comprehensive study materials. Considering Invensis Learning's CAPM Certification course is a good choice.
What job roles can I pursue with a CAPM certification?
Some common job roles that can be pursued with a CAPM certification include project coordinator, project analyst, project assistant, junior project manager, and project team member.
Can I become a project manager with the CAPM certification?
While the CAPM certification is not designed to make you a full-fledged project manager, it can be a stepping stone. With the CAPM certification, you can work in project-related roles, gain experience, and gradually move to more advanced positions like project manager.
What career opportunities can the CAPM certification lead to?
The CAPM certification can open doors to various entry-level project management and project coordination roles in IT, construction, healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and more industries.
What if I fail the CAPM exam? Can I retake it?
Yes, you can retake the CAPM exam if you do not pass on your first attempt. PMI provides information about retake policies, waiting periods, and fees on its website.
How can I manage my time during the exam?
The CAPM exam provides approximately 1.2 minutes per question. Use your time wisely, and if you encounter difficult questions, consider marking them for review and moving on. You can return to the marked ones once you've answered all the questions.
Are there practice exams available for the CAPM exam?
Yes, many CAPM exam prep resources include practice exams that simulate the actual exam environment. Taking these practice exams helps you become familiar with the question format and assess your readiness.
What is the CAPM exam, and why should I take it?
The CAPM exam is a certification exam offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI) that assesses your understanding of fundamental project management concepts. It's beneficial for individuals who want to validate their project management knowledge, even if they have little work experience in the field.
What are the career opportunities after completing CAPM training?
After completing CAPM training and obtaining certification, you can pursue roles such as project coordinator, assistant project manager, or any position that involves working within project teams. The certification can open doors to entry-level project management positions across various industries.
Can CAPM certification be a stepping stone to the PMP certification?
Yes, CAPM certification can serve as a stepping stone to the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. As you gain more project management experience, you can pursue PMP certification, which is a more advanced certification offered by PMI.
Is CAPM training available online?
Many training providers offer CAPM training online, allowing you to study at your own pace. Invensis Learning is one such trainer provider that provides online CAPM training.
Can I use the CAPM certification to transition to a different industry?
Yes, the skills and knowledge gained from CAPM certification are transferable across industries. It can be a great way to enter a new industry and showcase your commitment to professional development.
How do I enroll for training?
You can enroll for training by following below mentioned points:
Can I opt for a customized schedule other than what is mentioned on the website?
Yes, you can opt for a customized schedule which is not there on the website. But getting custom schedules will depend on few criteria mentioned below:
How much discount will I get if I enroll for training?
What is the certification that I will get after completing my training?
What will be included in my training?
Once you enroll for training from Invensis Learning, you will receive:
What is the refund amount I will get if I cancel my enrollment?
Please check out our refund policy page to know more if you cancel your enrollment.
Will the training be delivered in a native language if a participant choses to?
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