Exam Comparison
AWS SAA vs AZ-500
Comparing the AWS Certified Solutions Architect — Associate (SAA-C03) and the Microsoft Azure Security Technologies (AZ-500). Both fall under IT Certifications. Both are covered by the Cloud Cert Exam Prep: AWS, Azure & GCP app.
AWS SAA vs AZ-500: At a Glance
| Detail | AWS SAA | AZ-500 |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | AWS Certified Solutions Architect — Associate (SAA-C03) | Microsoft Azure Security Technologies (AZ-500) |
| Governing Body | AWS | Microsoft |
| Number of Questions | 65 | 50 |
| Time Limit | 130 minutes | 120 minutes |
| Passing Score | 720/1000 (scaled) | 700/1000 |
| Exam Fee | $150 USD | $165 USD |
| Category | IT Certifications | IT Certifications |
| C3RT App | Cloud Cert Exam Prep: AWS, Azure & GCP Soon | Cloud Cert Exam Prep: AWS, Azure & GCP Soon |
Content Areas Compared
AWS SAA Domains
- Design Secure Architectures(30%)
- Design Resilient Architectures(26%)
- Design High-Performing Architectures(24%)
- Design Cost-Optimized Architectures(20%)
AZ-500 Domains
- Manage Identity and Access(25–30%)
- Secure Networking(20–25%)
- Secure Compute, Storage, and Databases(20–25%)
- Manage Security Operations(25–30%)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between AWS SAA and AZ-500?
The AWS SAA (AWS Certified Solutions Architect — Associate (SAA-C03)) is administered by AWS and consists of 65 questions. The AZ-500 (Microsoft Azure Security Technologies (AZ-500)) is administered by Microsoft and consists of 50 questions. Both are IT Certifications credentials.
Can I take both the AWS SAA and the AZ-500?
Yes, the AWS SAA and AZ-500 are separate credentials with separate eligibility requirements. Each is awarded by a different governing body (AWS and Microsoft respectively). Check the official requirements for each before registering.
Which should I take first, AWS SAA or AZ-500?
The right sequence depends on your career goals and current credentials. The AWS SAA is offered by AWS with a passing score of 720/1000 (scaled), while the AZ-500 is offered by Microsoft with a passing score of 700/1000. Review the eligibility requirements for each with the respective governing bodies before deciding.
Does C3RT cover both the AWS SAA and the AZ-500?
C3RT is building apps for both the AWS SAA and the AZ-500. Both will be available on iOS and Mac.
The AWS Certified Solutions Architect — Associate (SAA-C03) (AWS SAA) is administered by AWS. The Microsoft Azure Security Technologies (AZ-500) (AZ-500) is administered by Microsoft. C3RT is not affiliated with either organisation. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.