CAPM® Certification Cost Breakdown: Exam Fees, Membership Options, and Long-Term Value
By: Ryan Malaluan, CAPM®; Editor: Geram Lompon; Reviewed by: Alvin Villanueva, PMP®, PMI-ACP®
Thinking about moving up in your
Earning the CAPM® certification can open doors to entry-level
Understanding the CAPM® Certification
The CAPM certification is ideal for individuals seeking to prove their fundamental knowledge in project management. Offered by the
This entry-level certification helps you stand out in the job market and prepares you for more advanced credentials, such as the PMP certification. It’s an excellent step for professionals looking to build a long-term career in project management with globally recognized credentials.
What is the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)?
The Certified Associate in
It’s ideal for those with limited experience who want to make meaningful contributions to business projects. With this
Entry-Level Certification for Project Managers
The CAPM is ideal for entry-level project managers and those with a secondary degree, such as a high school diploma or an associate’s degree. It equips you with knowledge of the
- Risk management
- Scope, cost, and quality management
- Time management
- Stakeholder and procurement management
These areas correspond to the three and four domains outlined in the CAPM certification exam content. This foundational knowledge is useful across many industries and job roles.
Prerequisites and Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the CAPM certification exam, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Hold a secondary degree (such as a high school diploma or global equivalent)
- Complete 23 contact hours of
project management education
You can meet the education requirement through various learning formats, including self-paced training, instructor-led courses, or workshops. These should cover essential topics found in the PMBOK Guide, helping you build the project management knowledge necessary to pass the CAPM exam.
CAPM Certification Cost: Complete Breakdown
Understanding the full cost of the CAPM certification is key to effectively budgeting for your career in project management. Many candidates mistakenly focus only on the exam fee, but there are additional expenses to consider.
These include PMI membership, study materials, and training programs. By breaking down all the components, you can better assess the value and return on investment. Whether you’re aiming for an entry-level certification or planning a path to the PMP certification, it pays to know the total financial commitment upfront.
PMI Membership Options and Fees
Joining the
Beyond cost savings, members also gain access to exclusive study materials, exam preparation tools, and discounts on other PMI certifications. For those pursuing long-term professional growth, this investment can be both strategic and cost-effective.
Exam Registration Fees: Members vs. Non-Members
The CAPM certification exam fees differ based on your membership status with PMI. Here’s how the fees compare:
| Candidate Type | Exam Fee |
|---|---|
| PMI Members | $225 |
| Non-PMI Members | $300 |
This $75 difference can be significant, especially when paired with other savings available to PMI members, such as discounts on training and study materials.
If you’re planning to pursue multiple
Total Investment for First-Time Certification
To estimate the total cost of earning your CAPM certification, consider all major expenses:
- PMI Membership: $149
- CAPM Exam Fee: $225 (members) or $300 (non-members)
- Study Materials: $50–$200+
- Training Programs: Optional, can cost up to $2,000
Altogether, your certification process could range from $374 to over $2,500. This variation depends on whether you choose self-study or enroll in formal training.
Taking time to assess your learning style, career timeline, and available resources will help you make the most of your investment.
Education Requirements and Training Expenses
To be eligible for the CAPM certification exam, candidates must complete 23 contact hours of
These hours can be fulfilled through various formal training methods, including online courses, instructor-led sessions, or workshops. Meeting this education requirement is an essential first step in the certification process for aspiring project management professionals.
23 Hours of Project Management Education
The
- Online or in-person training programs
- Self-paced learning modules
- Workshops or bootcamps
- PMI-approved education providers
This step ensures that you’re fully prepared to meet entry-level certification standards and approach the CAPM certification exam with confidence.
Self-Study Options and Costs
For budget-conscious learners, self-study is a popular method of preparing for the CAPM certification exam. It allows you to learn at your own pace while keeping the cost of the CAPM certification low. Common self-study resources include:
- Online study materials ($20–$200)
- Digital or print versions of the PMBOK Guide
- Practice questions, quizzes, and flashcards
- Mobile apps for on-the-go learning
This flexible method helps individuals seeking entry-level
Instructor-Led Training Programs and Bootcamps
If you prefer guided instruction, formal training through instructor-led sessions or bootcamps may be the best fit. These programs typically cost $500 to $2,000 and offer:
- Structured curriculum aligned with PMI standards
- Real-time interaction with instructors and peers
- Live discussions and Q&A sessions
- Peer collaboration and networking opportunities
These programs are ideal for learners who thrive in structured environments. They offer strong exam preparation support, help meet education requirements, and increase your chances of success in the CAPM certification exam, especially for those targeting a career in project management roles.
Exam Preparation Resources and Study Tools
Preparing for the CAPM certification exam requires a well-structured mix of study tools and effective strategies. Whether you’re a self-learner or prefer structured support, several options can help you succeed. Combining official PMI resources with third-party materials ensures you cover all exam domains thoroughly.
Focus on practice exams, flashcards, study guides, and interactive modules. Be sure to track your progress and adjust your preparation plan as needed. With the right study tools, you’ll build the knowledge and confidence to pass the exam on your first try.
PMBOK Guide and Official PMI Materials
The
Alongside it, the CAPM Handbook and Exam Content Outline provide detailed information about the certification process, eligibility requirements, and exam date structure. These tools ensure you’re studying the right material and understanding the core principles of
Third-Party Resources and Practice Exams
Third-party materials are valuable additions to official content. They help reinforce learning through diverse formats and offer insight into how the exam questions are structured. These resources are especially helpful for those seeking flexible study tools. Popular third-party tools include:
- Practice questions and mock tests
- Flashcards and review manuals
- Simulated three-hour exams
- Mobile apps and study platforms
- On-demand video tutorials
These materials allow you to test your readiness and improve retention, while also offering convenience and flexibility in your exam preparation process.
Free and Low-Cost Options
If you’re preparing for the CAPM exam on a budget, there are plenty of free and affordable resources to support your success. While these may not be as comprehensive as paid options, they can provide a strong foundation in knowledge. Examples include:
- Open-access study groups and forums
- Free downloads from educational sites
- Community-driven resources like shared flashcards
- Web-based quizzes and video explainers
- Social media groups focused on CAPM prep
These cost-effective options make self-study more accessible and help reduce the total cost of certification, while maintaining adequate preparation.
Additional and Hidden Costs to Consider
Beyond exam fees and training, there are several hidden costs to keep in mind when pursuing your CAPM certification. These may include exam retake fees, renewal fees, and the significant time investment needed for preparation.
Factoring in these elements will give you a clearer picture of the total cost and help you better manage your career goals and expectations. Knowing what lies ahead allows you to make informed decisions as you progress in your career in project management.
Exam Retake Fees
If needed, you can retake the CAPM exam up to three times within your one-year eligibility window. This flexibility helps, but each attempt comes at a cost:
- PMI members: $150 per retake
- Non-members: $225 per retake
If you fail the exam three times, you’ll be required to wait one full year before reapplying. These costs can add up quickly, so it’s smart to invest in quality exam preparation, utilize practice questions, and select the right study materials from the outset.
Certification Renewal Fees
The CAPM certification is valid for a period of five years. To maintain your credential and keep your knowledge current, you must renew. The certification renewal process includes:
- Earning 15 professional development units (PDUs)
- Paying a renewal fee: $60 for PMI members, $150 for non-members
Staying certified ensures long-term value from your initial investment. Planning for this renewal phase helps you manage the total cost of certification and stay aligned with your long-term career goals in
Time and Opportunity Costs
Time is one of the most overlooked yet essential costs associated with pursuing the CAPM certification. On average, candidates spend:
- 80–100 hours studying for the CAPM exam
- Time that could be used for business projects, work, or other development activities
Though not a direct fee, this time investment represents a critical opportunity cost. Evaluating how this commitment fits into your professional growth and overall schedule will help you maximize your return and make the most of your career in
Cost Comparison: CAPM vs. Other Certifications
When exploring your options in project management certifications, it’s essential to compare the CAPM with other credentials, such as the PMP and Agile-based alternatives. Each has its own certification process, eligibility criteria, and total cost.
While CAPM is ideal for entry-level professionals, other certifications may better suit those with more experience or specialized goals. Carefully consider your background, career goals, and preferred
PMP Certification
The PMP certification is geared toward experienced professionals who have managed business projects and teams. It demands a higher level of education and experience, making it a more significant investment, but also a more widely recognized credential.
- Higher prerequisites (e.g., four-year degree, hours of
project management experience) - Exam fees: $405 (PMI members), $555 (non-members)
- More intensive exam preparation requirements, including formal training or structured courses
This certification is ideal for those prepared to take on senior roles and direct project teams confidently.
Scrum and Agile Certifications
Agile certifications, such as Certified Scrum Master (CSM) or PMI-ACP, offer value to professionals in Agile project management environments. They’re typically more affordable and quicker to earn, though they often require specific training.
- Typically lower total cost compared to CAPM and PMP
- Often require formal training courses, usually conducted by certified trainers
- Exam fees vary from $100 to $300, depending on the provider
Select this route if you’re seeking roles in Agile teams or aiming to enhance adaptability in fast-paced
Wrapping Up: Is the CAPM Certification Worth It?
Earning the CAPM certification is a valuable step for both entry-level project managers and established professionals. It acts as a gateway to the PMP certification, strengthens your job market position, and opens up new career opportunities.
While the CAPM certification cost includes exam fees, training, and study resources, the long-term benefits outweigh the investment. With the right preparation and materials, you’ll gain access to a widely recognized credential that validates your
References
LinkedIn Learning. (n.d.). CAPM training. Retrieved July 4, 2025, from https://www.linkedin.com/learning/search?keywords=CAPM
Project Management Institute. (n.d.). Certified Associate in
Project Management Institute. (n.d.). Membership. PMI. Retrieved July 4, 2025, from https://www.pmi.org/membership
Reddit. (n.d.). r/projectmanagement. Retrieved July 4, 2025, from https://www.reddit.com/r/projectmanagement/
Udemy. (n.d.). CAPM courses. Retrieved July 4, 2025, from https://www.udemy.com/topic/capm/
