Ahmed SanadProject Director| Siemens EnergyDubai, United Arab Emirates
Hi All,
I need your help in a comparison between PMI & AACE certification accreditation.
I did a small study and compared different institutes and their courses (PMI / AACE).
I filtered PMI-SP (by PMI) and PSP & CEP ( by AACE).
but the cost involved in maintain the certification force me to go for only one certification.
Which one should I choose ? which one is most valuable ?
Stéphane ParentSelf Employed / Semi-retired| Leader MakerPrince Edward Island, Canada
It depends on what you want to advertise about yourself, Ahmed.
If you go with PMI, you are focusing on the project management side, even with the SP certification.
AACE would be focusing on the process areas - cost and schedule management - whether part of a project, initiative or operations.
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1 reply by Jackob Jackson
May 21, 2026 9:09 PM
Jackob Jackson
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Project baseline control is tested heavily in the PSP and CertifyCerts has the most realistic scenario questions for this area I've seen.
Saving Changes...
Ahmed SanadProject Director| Siemens EnergyDubai, United Arab Emirates
as I understand now from your words, that AACE has an edge that it'll enable me to work in cost and schedule management , whatever the industry is, which means that it's more professional & not just into projects.
I think this is better for someone who may change his career from Projects (even after along time in projects, there must be a career shift). Saving Changes...
Stéphane ParentSelf Employed / Semi-retired| Leader MakerPrince Edward Island, Canada
Technically, project management is for any industry. The problem is that it can be hard to move your PM skills from one industry to another.
The AACE should be better at industry transitions. Saving Changes...
Ahmed SanadProject Director| Siemens EnergyDubai, United Arab Emirates
I think the decision is easier now, AACE has an edge for being that generic.
really many thanks for your support. Saving Changes...
Stéphane ParentSelf Employed / Semi-retired| Leader MakerPrince Edward Island, Canada
You're most welcome, Ahmed. All the best on your AACE journey. Let us know how it goes. Saving Changes...
Ahmed SanadProject Director| Siemens EnergyDubai, United Arab Emirates
sure, i'll give you feedback. Saving Changes...
Ahmed SanadProject Director| Siemens EnergyDubai, United Arab Emirates
Dear All,
I already just finished a 30 hours training for scheduling and planning, helping me to apply for both PMI-SP & PSP certificates.
and now the difference between both certificates is more clear to me, I found that both have save content, but PSP concentrate on some specific topics (for those who will be working as a professional planners and project controllers), but for project managers who want to get the exposure of planning and scheduling, preparation for PMI-SP would be sufficient, in order not to get into details in planning.
However, I'm now a deputy project manager, but I'm planning to apply for the PSP certificate, not PMI-SP because I find it more specific.
Thanks all
Ahmed Sanad
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1 reply by Emmanuel Okunusi
Aug 11, 2023 10:36 AM
Emmanuel Okunusi
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Hi Ahmed, I found your post very insightful and would like to connect with you. At the moment I'm thinking of taking either the PSP or MPI-SP certification and would like to gather more info from you and learn form your experience on the journey.
I will appreciate if we can connect on LinkedIn, I searched for your name and didn't find it.
Thank you for your support.
Saving Changes...
Ahmed SanadProject Director| Siemens EnergyDubai, United Arab Emirates
Thank you so much for your support. Saving Changes...
Dear All,
I already just finished a 30 hours training for scheduling and planning, helping me to apply for both PMI-SP & PSP certificates.
and now the difference between both certificates is more clear to me, I found that both have save content, but PSP concentrate on some specific topics (for those who will be working as a professional planners and project controllers), but for project managers who want to get the exposure of planning and scheduling, preparation for PMI-SP would be sufficient, in order not to get into details in planning.
However, I'm now a deputy project manager, but I'm planning to apply for the PSP certificate, not PMI-SP because I find it more specific.
Thanks all
Ahmed Sanad
Hi Ahmed, I found your post very insightful and would like to connect with you. At the moment I'm thinking of taking either the PSP or MPI-SP certification and would like to gather more info from you and learn form your experience on the journey.
I will appreciate if we can connect on LinkedIn, I searched for your name and didn't find it.
Choosing between PMI and AACE certifications can be tough. Both certification bodies offer valuable credentials in project management, but they do have some differences.
PMI offers the PMI-SP (Scheduling Professional) certification, which focuses on project scheduling. This certification demonstrates your expertise in creating and maintaining project schedules. On the other hand, AACE offers the PSP (Planning & Scheduling Professional) and CEP (Certified Estimating Professional) certifications. The PSP focuses on planning and scheduling, while the CEP focuses on cost estimating.
To decide which certification is most valuable for you, consider the following factors:
1. Industry Recognition: PMI is widely recognized and respected in the project management field, while AACE may have a slightly smaller network. However, AACE's certifications are highly regarded in industries that focus more on cost estimation.
2. Job Market: Research the job market in your specific industry. Look for job postings that mention either PMI or AACE certifications as preferred or required. This can give you an idea of which certification holds greater value in your industry.
3. Your Career Goals: Evaluate your long-term career goals and the specific skills you want to acquire. If you're more interested in project scheduling, the PMI-SP may be the better choice. If cost estimation and planning align better with your career goals, go for the PSP or CEP.
4. Cost-Benefit Analysis: Consider not only the initial certification costs but also the ongoing costs of maintaining the certification. PMI certifications, including the PMI-SP, require you to earn Continuing Education Units (PDUs) every three years, which can add up in terms of time and money. Review the requirements of both certifications and calculate the long-term cost before making a decision.
Ultimately, the most valuable certification for you will depend on your specific goals, industry, and personal preferences.
Good luck with your certification journey! Saving Changes...
