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USA CAPM Exam Guide: Format, Cost, Domains and Free Practice Test

Last reviewed ยท By the USA Exam Preparation editorial team

The CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management) from PMI is the entry-level step before the PMP exam. It needs no project experience, just a secondary diploma and 23 hours of project management education.

Practice with our free CAPM practice test.

Key takeaways

  • 150 questions (135 scored) in 180 minutes.
  • Fee: $225 for PMI members, $300 for non-members.
  • Covers predictive, agile and business analysis approaches.
  • Valid for 3 years (15 PDUs to renew).

USA CAPM Exam: Quick Facts

Offered by
PMI
Questions
150 (135 scored)
Time
180 minutes
Fee
$225 member / $300 non-member
Education
23 contact hours

CAPM Exam Domains

DomainWeight
Project Management Fundamentals and Core Concepts36%
Predictive, Plan-Based Methodologies17%
Agile Frameworks/Methodologies20%
Business Analysis Frameworks27%
More on CAPM Exam Domains โ†’

CAPM vs. PMP

The PMP requires 36โ€“60 months of project leadership experience and 35 hours of training. The CAPM requires no experience. Start with CAPM if youโ€™re new to projects, and move to PMP once you have the experience.

More on CAPM vs. PMP โ†’

Free practice test

Ready to test yourself?

Choose your test length, practice with instant feedback or take it exam-style, and get your score with an explanation for every answer.

Go to the USA CAPM Exam practice test โ†’

USA CAPM Exam FAQs

How many questions are on the CAPM exam?

150 questions, of which 135 are scored, in 3 hours.

Full answer โ†’

How much does the CAPM cost?

$225 for PMI members and $300 for non-members.

Full answer โ†’

Do I need experience for the CAPM?

No. You need a secondary degree and 23 hours of project management education.

Full answer โ†’

Is the CAPM worth it?

It helps entry-level candidates show PM knowledge and counts toward the education needed for the PMP.

Full answer โ†’

Official sources

Disclaimer: This guide is for general information. Rules, fees and procedures can change. Confirm the current requirements with the official agency listed in the sources. Read our editorial policy.

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