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Earning your Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM®) can jump‑start your career—even if you’ve never held a formal project manager title. This entry‑level PMI® credential:
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Confirms your grasp of universal project management principles
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Boosts your resume in entry‑level roles like coordinator or analyst
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Often leads to a 25% salary bump over non‑certified peers
1. Who Should Pursue CAPM®?
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Recent graduates, career‑changers, or professionals in supporting roles
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Anyone aiming for an entry‑level project coordinator, analyst, or assistant PM role
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PMI® novices looking to earn 35 contact‑hour education credit toward PMP® eligibility
2. CAPM® Eligibility Requirements (2025)
| Requirement | PMP® Pathway Benefit |
|---|---|
| Secondary diploma (high school) or equivalent | Entry‑level eligibility |
| 0 hours of prior project management experience required | Fulfills PMP® 35‑hour education requirement if you later apply |
Note: CAPM® has no work‑experience prerequisite, unlike the PMP®.
3. CAPM® Exam & Training Costs
| Fee Type | PMI Member Rate | Non‑Member Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Exam registration | USD 225 | USD 300 |
| Re‑examination | USD 150 | USD 200 |
| PMI annual membership | USD 129 | N/A |
| 35‑hour training course | USD 300–600* | USD 300–600* |
*Varies by provider. PMI‑Authorized Training Partners typically charge USD 300–600 for 35 contact hours.
4. How to Prepare & Book Your Exam
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Enroll in a 35‑hour CAPM® course (online or in‑person).
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Gather proof of education (diploma transcript).
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Submit your online application via PMI.org.
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Schedule your Pearson VUE exam ($225/$300).
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Aim to study for 3–4 months, using PMI's latest CAPM® Exam Content Outline.
5. CAPM® Salary Insights (2025)
United States
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Average hourly pay: USD 37 per hour (≈ USD 76,960 per year)
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Typical entry‑level range: USD 68,000 – 77,000 annually
Global Comparison
| Country | Currency | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| United States | USD | 73,000 – 77,000 |
| Canada | CAD | 86,000 |
| United Kingdom | GBP | 54,000 |
| Australia | AUD | 129,750 |
| India | INR | 1,645,000 |
| South Africa | ZAR | 589,318 |
| Germany | EUR | 65,000 |
| New Zealand | NZD | 90,000 |
Pro Tip: Salaries vary by role; project coordinators may start nearer the low end, while analysts or junior PMs can command the high end.
6. FAQ Section
Q1: What does CAPM stand for?
A: CAPM® stands for Certified Associate in Project Management, an entry‑level PMI® credential for emerging PM professionals.
Q2: Is CAPM® worth it for salary increase?
A: Yes—CAPM® holders often see a 20–25% boost in entry‑level PM roles versus non‑certified peers.
Q3: How long is the CAPM® exam validity?
A: CAPM® is valid for five years with no renewal requirements; there is no PDUs or re‑certification fees.
Q4: Do I need PMI® membership?
A: Membership is optional. Members pay a lower exam fee (USD 225 vs. USD 300) and get free digital standards.
