AWS SAP-C02AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional
Advanced AWS architecture for senior cloud professionals
Details last reviewed October 2026. Fees and exam formats change — always confirm on the official page.
About this certification
The AWS Solutions Architect – Professional is an advanced credential that validates expertise in designing complex, multi-account AWS architectures. It covers migration strategies, cost governance, advanced networking, and enterprise-scale solutions.
What you'll validate
- ✓Complex multi-tier architectures
- ✓Migration and hybrid environments
- ✓Cost governance
- ✓Advanced networking
- ✓Security at scale
- ✓Multi-account strategy
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +Top-tier AWS credential — highly respected
- +Significant salary uplift over Associate
- +Demonstrates deep architecture expertise
Disadvantages
- −Requires Associate first
- −Very difficult exam — high failure rate
- −Needs extensive real-world AWS experience
Who it's for
Best for
- →Senior cloud engineers targeting architect roles
- →Those who've held AWS SAA for 1+ years
Not ideal for
- ×Beginners
- ×Those without hands-on AWS architectural experience
Career paths this unlocks
AWS SAP-C02: quick answers
- How much does the AWS SAP-C02 exam cost?
- The listed exam fee is $300 (USD). Fees vary by region and change over time — confirm on the official page before you buy.
- How long does it take to prepare for AWS SAP-C02?
- We estimate roughly 250 hours of study for most candidates; your time depends on prior experience.
- How long is the AWS SAP-C02 exam?
- The exam is 180 minutes with about 75 questions.
- How long is the AWS SAP-C02 credential valid?
- 3 years. Recertify every 3 years. Exam version change: SAP-C02 last day Nov 16, 2026; SAP-C03 from Nov 17, 2026.
Study Resources
Contains affiliate linksTop picks for AWS SAP-C02
Register for the exam
Purchase directly on AWS Training — benefit codes sometimes available via AWS events
More places to study
Self-paced video courses from independent instructors
Courses and certificates from universities and companies
Practice exams focused on AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud
Practice tests and hands-on labs for IT certifications
Printed and Kindle exam guides
Subscription video courses
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Jobs for AWS SAP-C02 holders
Pay depends on role, location, and experience more than on any single credential. Check current postings below for real ranges in your market.
LinkedIn Jobs
Posted in the last 7 days
Indeed
Dice (tech roles)
Tech-focused job board
Job links open external sites. Search results are live and not curated by MyCertPath.
Quick Facts
- Exam Cost
- $300
- Exam Duration
- 180 minutes
- Questions
- ~75
- Passing Score
- 750/1000
- Exam Format
- Multiple Choice
- Study Time
- ~250 hours
- Validity
- 3 years
- Salary Impact
- Strong (editorial rating)
- Last Reviewed
- October 2026
Prerequisites
- !AWS Solutions Architect – Associate (or equivalent experience)
- !2+ years AWS architecture experience
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