Unlock Your Career Potential with CAPM Certification
The CAPM Certification serves as a stepping stone for aspiring project managers, offering an entry-level qualification that paves the way into project management roles. Tailored for individuals commencing their journey in this field, it acts as the perfect launching pad to kickstart a career as a project manager.
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What is CAPM Certification?
With the CAPM certification, you showcase to the world your possession of essential knowledge and skills sought after by project teams. It attests to your preparedness in handling diverse projects, encompassing predictive project management, agile principles, and business analysis methodologies. By obtaining your CAPM, you acquire all the necessary tools to embark on a successful career in project management.
Can I Get CAPM Certification?
To be eligible for the CAPM exam, you must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a secondary degree, such as a high school diploma, GED (general educational development), or its global equivalent.
- Complete at least 23 contact hours of project management education prior to the exam. PMI’s online Project Management Basics course is an option to fulfil this requirement.
If you’re seeking a convenient way to satisfy the 23-hour project management education prerequisite, you can explore the Google Project Management: Professional Certificate. This programme offers comprehensive foundational knowledge, serving as an excellent starting point before delving into more intricate project management concepts.
How Much Does CAPM Certification Cost?
The certification cost is determined by your membership status with the Project Management Institute (PMI). For PMI members, the certification fee amounts to approximately $225, while non-members can expect to pay around $300.
Why Should I Get CAPM Certified?
Obtaining the CAPM certification opens doors to entry-level project management positions, such as project coordinator associate and junior project manager. Achieving your CAPM certification also fulfils the 35-hour project management education and training prerequisite necessary to qualify for the PMP exam. Whether you aim to enhance your existing skillset or embark on a rewarding new career path, CAPM certification sets you apart by validating your skills and empowering you to forge a successful project management career, turning your aspirations into reality.
Does a CAPM Certification Help Me Get Jobs?
While the CAPM may not directly secure new job opportunities in senior project manager and programme manager roles, it serves as an entry-level qualification that can lead to positions like junior project manager, project coordinator, or other roles within the project management office. For higher-level positions in project management, more advanced qualifications are typically required to remain competitive.
The demand for project managers is on the rise, driven by rapid technological advancements and the transformative impact of new and emerging technologies on business operations. As organisations strive to enhance their processes, products, and systems, the need for skilled project managers continues to grow.
After completing the CAPM certification, you can explore various roles along the career path. While specific earnings may vary, the certification may open opportunities for career advancement and increased earning potential in the project management field.
PMP vs CAPM vs PRINCE2
The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is another credential offered by the PMI. Unlike the entry-level CAPM, PMP is a higher-level professional certification. It holds greater recognition in countries such as Australia, the Middle East, the USA, and Canada, rather than in the United Kingdom.
In the UK, the equivalent project management qualification for project manager and senior project management roles is Prince2. This certification is prominently referenced in the majority of job advertisements on CWjobs and other project management-focused job sites, specifically at the Foundation and Practitioner levels.
Should You Take PRINCE2 or CAPM in the UK?
For individuals in the UK, it is advisable to prioritise qualifications that hold greater recognition in the region. While CAPM serves as a good and affordable foundation-level course, those aspiring to establish a project management career in the UK should consider taking the Prince2 Practitioner course at some stage.
To qualify for the Practitioner course, completion of the Prince2 Foundation level is a prerequisite. If faced with the decision between CAPM and Prince2 Foundation level, opting for Prince2 may be a more sensible choice for UK-based career aspirations in project management.
How Should I Prepare for the CAPM Certification?
When getting ready for the examination, you have two options: you can either enrol in a course or take a self-study approach. If you opt for self-study, it is recommended to obtain the latest version of the PMBoK guide, which is accessible through the PMI website upon membership registration. The CAPM examination is based on the content covered in this guide.
Project Basics Course
The Project Management Institute offers the Project Management Basics course, specifically designed to prepare you for the CAPM exam. The course is delivered in bite-sized online modules, each lasting around twenty minutes, making it easily manageable. Enrolling in this course grants you access to a copy of the PMBoK guide. For non-PMI members, the course costs approximately $300, while for PMI members, the fee is reduced to $265.
Google Project Management: Professional Certificate
While not officially recognised as a CAPM preparation course, the Google qualification offers comprehensive knowledge on project planning, project initiation, Agile, Scrum, cost control, and other essential project management fundamentals. The course provides 100 hours of education in project management, fulfilling the eligibility criteria for both CAPM and other PMI certifications.
How Does The PMBOK Guide Relate to the CAPM Certification?
The PMBOK Guide, short for Project Management Body of Knowledge, has undergone multiple updates since its initial release in 1996, and it is currently in its sixth edition, published in September 2017. Widely regarded as the industry standard for project management guidelines, processes, techniques, and terminology, the guide offers a comprehensive framework built upon the collective expertise of professionals across various global industries. Notably, the PMBOK guidelines are considered industry-agnostic, making them adaptable and applicable in diverse domains.
It is crucial to recognise that the PMBOK Guide serves as a framework rather than a rigid, step-by-step project management methodology. Mastering this guide is essential for achieving a CAPM certification, so it should not be overlooked. However, it is essential to understand that familiarity with the PMBOK Guide alone does not guarantee success in the examination. To pass the CAPM exam, it is advisable to complement your studies with other relevant study materials.
To learn more about PMBOK, click here.
What’s On The CAPM Exam?
The three-hour CAPM examination consists of 150 questions, with 10% classified as “pre-test questions.” These pre-test questions serve to explore potential items for future use and do not contribute to the overall scoring. As mentioned earlier, the exam’s content is based on the PMBoK guide, which you should have studied extensively either through self-study or a structured course.
The exam encompasses the following topics:
- Foundations of Project Management
- Project Initiation: Starting a Successful Project
- Project Planning: Putting It All Together
- Project Execution: Running the Project
- Agile Project Management
- Capstone: Applying Project Management in the Real World
What’s The CAPM Exam Pass Mark?
The specific number of correct answers needed to pass the CAPM certification is not disclosed by PMI. While such information used to be more accessible in the past, the passing requirement has undergone multiple changes over the years. Therefore, it is advisable to approach any definitive claims found on the internet with caution and verify the information from reliable sources.
How Do I Apply To Take The CAPM Exam?
Before proceeding, it is crucial to assess whether you meet the eligibility requirements for the CAPM exam. Applying without meeting these criteria would be a waste of time and resources. The CAPM exam application form can be found online or in a printable format and is divided into three sections, requiring various details and information. To facilitate the process, PMI allows applicants to complete the form in multiple sittings within 90 days.
The application will request the following information:
- A) General personal information
- B) Project management experience
- C) Details of your completed 23 contact hours of project management education
It is essential to provide accurate and complete information since modifying details at a later stage may prove challenging. After submitting your application, PMI typically reviews it within 5-7 working days, assuming no clarifications are needed.
Upon approval, you will receive an email instructing you on how to make the examination payment. Be aware that there is a possibility of being selected for an audit, which would require additional evidence and information before final approval is granted.
Once your application is approved, you will receive an email containing your PMI Eligibility ID and instructions on booking your exam at a Prometric testing centre. To ensure a smooth process, we highly recommend familiarising yourself with the CAPM handbook, which offers comprehensive information about the certification. The latest version of the handbook can be downloaded from the PMI website.
What Happens If I Fail My First Attempt?
Rest assured, you have three attempts available for the CAPM exam during your one-year eligibility period. It is crucial to utilise all your attempts within that year to avoid the need to re-apply for the CAPM exam after a year’s suspension.
It’s important to consider that the exam fee for the second and third attempts will be lower. PMI members will pay only $150 USD, while non-members will pay $200 USD.
What Is a PMI Audit?
After you have completed your CAPM exam application and paid the fee, there is a possibility of being selected for an audit. In the event you are not chosen for an audit, you will be informed accordingly. If selected for an audit, PMI will request further evidence and information, including copies of your diploma or its global equivalent, proof of project experience, and training institute certificates. The review and response process typically takes around one week after PMI receives the requested documentation.
Upon successful completion of the audit, you can proceed with your CAPM exam application. However, if PMI finds any intentional falsification of information, you will be permanently banned from applying for the CAPM exam. If you happen to provide false information unintentionally, it is essential to notify your PMI contact promptly to correct the error.
How Do I Retain My CAPM Certification?
Unlike the PMP certification, CAPM does not necessitate the accumulation of Professional Development Units (PDUs). However, it’s important to note that the CAPM certification has a validity period of five years. By the end of the fifth year, you are required to retake and pass the exam. This ensures that you stay updated with the latest PMBOK Guide revisions and maintain your proficiency in project management knowledge.
In the event that your CAPM certification expires, you will need to restart the application process as if you were a new candidate. This emphasises the significance of staying current with your certification to avoid any disruption in your project management career.
FAQ
What is The CAPM?
Both the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) and Project Management Professional (PMP) certifications are specialised credentials provided by the Project Management Institute (PMI). These certifications enhance professionals’ credibility and provide them with valuable opportunities to enhance their skills and expertise in the field of project management.
Is CAPM Worth Having?
Obtaining a CAPM certification can significantly benefit individuals with up to three years of experience in project management, as it enhances their resumes and sets their job applications apart. It serves as an excellent starting point for those aiming to pursue a career in project management. However, if you possess more than three years of experience, we recommend considering the PMP certification as the next step in advancing your professional goals.
Which Is Better CAPM or PMP?
If you are at the beginning stages of your project management journey, the CAPM certification may be a more suitable and feasible option compared to the PMP. It can provide a solid foundation for your career. However, if you already possess some experience and aim to enhance your skill set to increase your competitiveness in the job market, pursuing the PMP certification might be a more fitting choice.
How Hard Is It To Pass The CAPM Exam?
The CAPM exam revolves around PMI’s framework, making the study process relatively straightforward. With the right study materials and sufficient memorization of the required information, passing the CAPM is achievable. However, one challenge is that PMI does not disclose their pass/fail rates, which can make it slightly more challenging to gauge the level of preparation required.
Is CAPM For Beginners?
The CAPM certification is designed for beginners and serves as an entry-level qualification. Its primary objective is to provide individuals with little to no direct project-related experience an opportunity to showcase their understanding of the fundamental principles and terminology of project management.
How Long Does It Take To Study For The CAPM Exam?
On average, preparing for a typical CAPM exam demands approximately 45-60 hours of study time, equivalent to 8-10 weeks of focused preparation, dedicating around 6 hours of studying each week.
How Long Does The CAPM Certification Last?
Unlike the PMP certification, CAPM does not necessitate the accumulation of Professional Development Units (PDUs). However, it’s important to note that the CAPM certification has a validity period of five years. By the end of the fifth year, you are required to retake and pass the exam to maintain the validity of your certification.
Can You Put CAPM After Your Name?
Upon successfully passing the exam, one of your initial actions should be updating all your online profiles and resume to showcase your newly achieved certification. Now that you are officially certified, you can proudly add the CAPM letters after your name. You have put in the effort to earn this certification, so make sure to promote and highlight it in your professional endeavours.
Overview
The CAPM certification holds significant value as it provides aspiring project management professionals with a strong foundational knowledge in the field. Focusing on essential project management principles and practices, this credential serves as an ideal starting point for those seeking to launch their careers in project management. Achieving the CAPM certification not only showcases a dedication to professional growth but also enhances credibility in the competitive job market. With thorough preparation and commitment, candidates can develop a comprehensive understanding of project management concepts, increasing their chances of success in the CAPM exam.
During your journey towards becoming a certified associate in project management, make the most of study resources, practice exams, and practical experiences to reinforce your knowledge and skills. The CAPM certification not only validates your expertise but also opens doors to exciting opportunities in various industries worldwide. Whether you’re a recent graduate, a career switcher, or an aspiring project manager, the CAPM certification can be the gateway to a fulfilling and rewarding career in the dynamic field of project management. Embrace the challenge, remain dedicated to learning, and let the CAPM certification propel you toward a bright future in the world of project management.
Now that you’re ready to start on your CAPM journey, have a look at our guide to PMI exams, and see our comprehensive guide to all things agile.
