I already hold the AWS Solutions Architect Associate certification, but I have limited hands-on experience working with AWS. I originally planned to take the Developer Associate exam, but I'm wondering whether it would make more sense to prepare directly for the Solutions Architect Professional exam instead. How difficult was the Professional exam for those who took it, and which certification would be the better next step for someone still building practical experience?
3 Answers
The Solutions Architect Professional exam is considerably harder than the Associate exam. You get three hours, and you’ll probably need most of that time. If your goal is to build knowledge step by step, the Developer Associate is the more sensible next move. Whichever path you choose, try to build a real project alongside your studying.
The Professional exam focuses heavily on scenario-based judgment rather than simple memorization. A lot of questions involve migrations, multi-account setups, resilience, and cost tradeoffs, and the wording can be tricky. Without practical AWS experience, it can become an exercise in memorizing decision patterns, so I’d lean toward Developer Associate first.
Certifications can help demonstrate that you understand the material, especially when you’re trying to get your first opportunity, but they don’t replace hands-on experience. Having several certificates without being able to explain how you’ve used the services may not impress an interviewer. Build and document a few projects so you can connect the certification knowledge to real decisions.
That’s fair, although practical experience can be difficult to get when many entry-level roles already ask for experience. A certification at least shows that you’ve learned the fundamentals and may help you get considered for an opportunity.
Taking the easier exam first could also help you build confidence and get used to AWS exam-style questions before attempting the Professional level.