What Are the CAPM® Certification Requirements in 2025?

By Ryan Cezar Malaluan, CAPM®; Editor: Geram Lompon; Reviewed by: Alvin Villanueva, PMP®

Did you know that the Project Management Institute (PMI®) has certified over a million professionals worldwide, including thousands as Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM®) professionals? This illustrates the significant growth of project management certifications.

If you’re considering a career in project management, understanding the certification process is crucial. The CAPM® certification is for beginners and those new to the field. It gives a solid base in project management principles and practices.

To start, you must meet the PMI’s eligibility criteria. This includes your education and project management experience. Obtaining the CAPM® certification demonstrates your expertise. It can help you stand out from other candidates in the competitive project management job market.

The CAPM® certification can boost your career in project management by opening up new professional development and job opportunities. According to Forbes, citing Payscale data, CAPM®-certified professionals in the U.S. may earn between $65,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on location, experience, and job role. (Forbes CAPM Certification Guide).

Understanding the CAPM® Certification

The CAPM® certification is offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It’s for those who want to demonstrate their knowledge of project management. It serves as a starting point for newcomers in the field.

The CAPM® is one of several PMI certifications designed to support project managers at different stages of their careers. While the CAPM® is ideal for beginners, established professionals may also pursue PMI certifications to further their expertise.

What is CAPM® and Its Role in Project Management

The Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM®) demonstrates your understanding of the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide). It means you have a solid understanding of the basics of project management. The CAPM® is key in project management because it:

• Shows you know project management basics
• Shows you’re serious about project management
• Helps you get ahead in your career
• Can help you qualify for entry-level positions such as associate project manager, project coordinator, and junior project manager

Who Should Pursue CAPM® Certification

The CAPM® is great for many people, like:

• Newbies in project management
• Project managers who can’t get the PMP yet
• Team members wanting to learn more about project management
• Those aiming for the PMP certification later
• PMP candidates who do not yet meet the experience requirements may benefit from earning the CAPM® certification first

Getting the CAPM® certification is a big step in your project management career. It shows you’re committed to the field.

The Value of CAPM® Certification

The Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM®) certification is a powerful credential for anyone looking to launch or accelerate a career in project management. Designed specifically for entry-level project managers and those with less than three years of experience working with project teams, the CAPM® certification demonstrates your commitment to the project management profession and your understanding of core project management concepts.

As a certified associate in project management, you gain a solid foundation that prepares you for more advanced roles and certifications, such as the Project Management Professional (PMP®). The CAPM® is widely recognized as a stepping stone for those aiming to become project management professionals and is respected by organizations around the world as a mark of dedication and knowledge in the field.

Benefits of Certification

Earning your CAPM® certification comes with a range of benefits that can help you stand out in the competitive project management job market. Some of the key advantages include:

• Increased earning potential: According to the Project Management Institute (PMI®), CAPM®-certified professionals can earn up to 20% more than their non-certified peers (Payscale Salary Data).
• Career advancement: The CAPM® certification opens doors to a variety of project management roles, such as associate project manager and project coordinator, and is often a requirement for entry-level project management positions.
• Professional recognition: Being a CAPM®-certified project management professional signals to employers and colleagues that you have the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to successful project outcomes.
• Broader opportunities: With a CAPM® certification, you become eligible for more project management roles and can more easily transition into larger projects or more complex project teams.
• Preparation for the PMP: The CAPM® is an excellent way to prepare for the PMP certification, giving you a strong foundation in project management principles and practices.

Industry Recognition

The CAPM® certification is recognized globally as a mark of excellence in project management. Administered by the Project Management Institute (PMI®)—the world’s largest and most respected project management certification organization—the CAPM® is trusted by employers and organizations across industries.

PMI has been setting the standard for project management since 1969 and now supports a global community of over 7 million professionals through its certifications, training programs, and resources. Earning your CAPM® certification demonstrates your project management knowledge and skills, making you a valuable asset to any organization and helping you build credibility in the project management profession.

CAPM® Certification Requirements in 2025

To get CAPM® certified in 2025, you must meet some key requirements. Knowing these is the first step to getting your certification.

The required prerequisites for the CAPM® certification include a secondary degree (such as a high school diploma) and at least 23 hours of project management education or training before you can apply for the exam.

Educational Prerequisites

You need a secondary degree to start, which includes a high school diploma, an associate degree, an associate’s degree, or an equivalent qualification from around the world. This requirement shows you have a basic level of education.

Equivalent Degrees Accepted

To qualify for the CAPM® certification, you need a secondary degree, such as a high school diploma or its global equivalent. You must also complete 23 hours of project management education before sitting for the exam. This project management education requirement can be fulfilled through a variety of courses, including those offered by PMI Authorized Training Partners.

Whether you have a high school diploma, an associate’s degree, or another recognized secondary credential, the CAPM® certification allows you to showcase your project management knowledge and skills—even if you don’t have a four-year degree. Completing the required hours of project management training ensures you’re well-prepared for the exam and for real-world project management roles.

Project Management Education Requirements

You also need 23 hours of project management training from a PMI-approved provider. This training is key. It teaches you important project management skills and prepares you for the CAPM® exam. You’ll learn about the PMI’s framework and the PMBOK Guide.

You must have your project management education completed before applying for the exam.

• Make sure the training provider is a PMI Authorized Training Partner, and that your training is completed before you can sit for the exam.
• Learn about the main project management topics and concepts.
• Get familiar with the exam format and content.

You can fulfill the education requirement through an online course or in-person courses, and choosing a PMI Authorized Training Partner ensures your training meets PMI standards.

Key topics covered in the required training include agile project management and risk management.

Experience Requirements for Entry-Level Candidates

For those new to project management, there’s good news. There are no specific experience needs for CAPM® certification. This makes it easier for newcomers to get certified. Still, having some knowledge of project management can help.

1. Check the CAPM® eligibility on the PMI website.
2. Make sure you meet the education and training needs.
3. Get your application and documents ready.

CAPM® Career Impact

Earning the CAPM® certification can have a significant impact on your project management career. As organizations increasingly seek skilled project managers to lead teams and deliver successful projects, the demand for certified professionals continues to grow. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market for project managers is expected to grow by 7% by 2033, making the CAPM® a smart investment for anyone looking to build a long-term career in project management.

Career Opportunities with CAPM®

With a CAPM® certification, you can pursue a variety of roles in project management, including associate project manager, project coordinator, and project team member. These positions are available across a wide range of industries, such as construction, information technology, healthcare, and finance.

The CAPM® certification is also a valuable stepping stone for those who wish to advance to more senior roles or pursue additional certifications like the PMP. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market for project managers is expected to grow by 7% by 2033, making the CAPM® a smart investment for anyone looking to build a long-term career in project management.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to move up, the CAPM® certification can help you achieve your career goals and stand out in a competitive job market.

The CAPM® Application Process

Starting your CAPM® certification journey means knowing the application process well. You need to follow it carefully to meet the Project Management Institute (PMI) requirements.

Creating a PMI Account

The first step is to create a PMI account. This account is your gateway for managing your application, scheduling your exam, and checking your certification status. Here’s how to create a PMI account:

• Go to the PMI website and click “Create an Account.”
• Enter your name, email address, and password as required.
• Click the link in your email to verify your address.

Having a PMI account is key to the whole certification process. So, keep your login details safe.

Completing Your Application

With your PMI account ready, you can fill out your CAPM® application. You’ll need to share your education and project management experience. You’ll need to provide:

1. Your educational background, like your degree and where you got it.
2. Your project management education must meet PMI’s standards.

Make sure all your information is correct and matches your documents. Any mistakes can cause delays or even rejection.

Application Review Timeline and Approval

After you submit your application, PMI will check if you meet the CAPM® requirements. This review usually takes a few days. But it can take longer if there are many applications. You’ll get an email about your application’s status.

If your application is approved, you can book your CAPM® exam. It’s important to prepare for the exam quickly. Your eligibility to take the exam is only valid for a certain time.

By knowing and following the CAPM® application process, you can have a smooth path to certification. Stay updated on the requirements and timelines to avoid any last-minute problems.

CAPM® Exam Format and Structure

Getting ready for the CAPM® certification exam? Knowing the exam format and structure is key. The CAPM® exam checks your project management knowledge. Familiarizing yourself with the format boosts your confidence and readiness.

Exam Content and PMBOK Guide Coverage

The CAPM® exam focuses on the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide). It covers project management basics and also includes predictive project management as a traditional methodology. You’ll see questions on project management fundamentals, predictive methods, agile frameworks, and business analysis. Some CAPM exam questions may also include comic strips to visually illustrate complex concepts.

Number of Questions and Time Limits

The CAPM® exam has 150 questions, with 135 scored and 15 pretest ones, and candidates are given three hours to complete the exam. It’s important to manage your time well to answer all questions.

Testing Options: Online and In-Person

You can take the CAPM® exam online or at a Pearson VUE test center. Both options are secure and reliable. Choose what works best for you.

Passing Score Requirements

To pass the CAPM® exam, you need to meet the Project Management Institute’s (PMI) passing score. The score depends on the question difficulty and the candidate’s performance.

Preparing for the CAPM® Exam

Preparing for the CAPM® certification exam is crucial. You need to know the different ways to study. Good preparation is key to passing the exam and moving forward in your career.

PMI Authorized Training Options

PMI authorized training offers a detailed way to study for the CAPM® exam. These programs cover the exam’s content and are taught by experts. Choosing PMI training helps you understand project management better.

• PMI’s Registered Education Providers (R.E.P.s) have various courses that match the CAPM® exam.
• These courses come in classroom, online, and blended learning formats.
• PMI training providers also give extra study materials and practice exams.

Self-Study Resources and Materials

Self-study materials are also important for CAPM® exam prep. The PMBOK Guide is key, as it covers the exam’s topics.

Other self-study tools include online courses, study guides, and practice exams. They help you check your knowledge and focus on weak areas.

• Online study groups and forums offer extra support and advice.
• Practice exams help you get used to the exam’s style and timing.

Study Strategies and Exam Tips

Creating a good study plan is essential for the CAPM® exam. Here are some tips to help you:

1. Make a study schedule to manage your time well and stay on track.
2. Use different study materials, like the PMBOK Guide, online courses, and practice exams.
3. Join a study group or online community for more insights and support.
4. Practice with sample questions to get used to the exam’s format and content.

By using PMI training, self-study, and smart study strategies, you’ll be ready for the CAPM® exam.

CAPM® Certification Costs

When you’re getting ready for CAPM® certification, knowing the costs is key. These costs include exam fees, training, and study materials. Knowing these will help you plan your budget for the journey.

In some cases, organizations’ human resources departments may offer support or reimbursement for CAPM® certification costs as part of their workforce development initiatives.

Exam Fees for PMI Members vs. Non-Members

The Project Management Institute (PMI) has different fees for members and non-members. Members pay $225 for the exam, while non-members pay $300. Being a PMI member can be worth it if you’re looking at more certifications or member perks.

Here’s a quick look at the costs:

• PMI Member: $225 (exam fee)
• Non-Member: $300 (exam fee)

Training and Study Material Expenses

Training and study materials add to the costs. Prices vary based on the provider, format, and length. Some common training options include:

• PMI Authorized Training Providers: These are officially recognized by PMI and might cost more.
• Online Courses: Sites like Udemy, Coursera, and edX have CAPM® courses at different prices.
• Study Guides and Books: You can buy guides like the PMBOK Guide or use free online resources.

Cost-Saving Strategies

To cut costs, try these strategies:

1. Go for self-study: Free or low-cost materials can save you money.
2. Look for affordable training: Keep an eye out for discounts or deals from providers.
3. Join PMI: If you’re getting more certifications, membership can be cost-effective.
4. Use online resources: Free or low-cost online tools, like study groups and forums, are available.

By knowing the costs and using these tips, you can manage your expenses and get your CAPM® certification.

Maintaining Your CAPM® Certification

Your CAPM® certification is good for three years. After that, you’ll need to renew it. Knowing how to keep your CAPM® certification up to date is key for your career in project management.

Certification Validity Period

The CAPM® certification lasts for three years after you pass the exam. During this time, you get to enjoy benefits like better job chances and recognition in the project management field.

Renewal Requirements and Process

To keep your CAPM® certification, you need to get 15 Professional Development Units (PDUs) within three years. Here’s how to renew:

• Earn 15 PDUs by taking part in workshops, webinars, and conferences about project management.
• Report your PDUs through the PMI CCR system.
• Pay the renewal fee.
• Agree to follow the PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct.

You can get PDUs in many ways, like:

• Going to project management courses and workshops.
• Joining webinars and online training sessions.
• Doing self-study, like reading project management books or articles.
• Volunteering for project management tasks.

Transitioning from CAPM® to PMP®

If you’ve got a lot of project management experience since getting your CAPM®, you might be ready for the PMP certification. You’ll need to meet PMI’s requirements, like having enough experience and education.

Getting your PMP certification can boost your career and show you’re really good at project management.

Wrapping Up

Getting your Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM®) certification is a big step in your project management career. It brings many certification benefits and opportunities. Knowing the CAPM® certification summary and what you need helps you get ready for the CAPM® exam.

The Project Management Institute (PMI) is the top name in project management standards. Getting CAPM® certified shows you’re serious about this field. You’ve learned it involves meeting certain education needs, filling out an application, and passing the CAPM® exam.

By going for CAPM® certification, you’re making a smart move for your future. This certification prepares you to handle project management‘s tough parts. It helps you move up in your career.

References

Curtis, S. (2024, January 17). Is CAPM® certification worth it? Forbes Advisor. https://www.forbes.com/advisor/education/certifications/capm-certification/

Payscale. (n.d.). Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM®) salary. https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Certification=Certified_Associate_in_Project_Management_(CAPM)/Salary

Project Management Institute. (2024). Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM®). https://www.pmi.org/certifications/certified-associate-capm

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). Management occupations: Occupational outlook handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/