Is the AIGP Certification Worth It? A Complete Guide for 2025

In today's data-driven world, organizations are under constant pressure to manage and govern their data effectively. The AIGP certification, or Associate Information Governance Professional, offered by ARMA International, has emerged as a highly regarded credential for professionals seeking expertise in information governance. But with growing competition in the tech and compliance sectors, one key question arises: Is the AIGP certification worth it in 2025?

Let’s break it down, exploring everything from job prospects and salary potential to industry demand and ROI.

What Is the AIGP Certification?

The AIGP (Associate Information Governance Professional) certification is designed for entry- to mid-level professionals who aim to develop a solid foundation in information governance (IG). Issued by ARMA International, a global leader in records and information management, this certification validates your understanding of:

• Information lifecycle management
• Data privacy and compliance
• Records management
• Information risk management
• Governance frameworks and standards

This credential is especially valuable for individuals looking to build or transition into IG roles in industries such as healthcare, finance, legal, and tech.

Who Should Consider AIGP Certification?

The AIGP certification is ideally suited for:

• Records Managers looking to upscale their skills
• Compliance Officers transitioning into governance roles
• Legal Professionals managing data privacy or litigation readiness
• IT Specialists involved in data management or infrastructure
• New graduates seeking a strong credential to enter the governance field

If your job intersects with data regulation, retention policies, eDiscovery, or enterprise data management, the AIGP can be a strategic stepping stone in your career.

Is the AIGP Certification Worth It?

Let’s explore the major factors that determine its value:

1. Industry Demand

With regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, CCPA, and evolving AI governance frameworks, information governance is no longer optional — it’s a business necessity. According to Gartner and McKinsey reports, organizations are increasingly investing in IG professionals to ensure compliance, manage risk, and maximize data value.

Being AIGP-certified helps professionals align with this rising demand, giving them a competitive advantage in both private and public sectors.

2. Career Opportunities

Jobs that value AIGP certification include:

• Information Governance Analyst
• Compliance and Risk Manager
• Records & Information Manager
• Data Governance Specialist
• Legal Compliance Consultant
• Digital Archivist

With this credential, professionals can transition into more strategic roles that have greater visibility and impact within an organization.

3. Salary Potential

While AIGP is considered an entry-level to mid-level certification, it positively influences salary prospects. According to industry surveys:

• Certified IG professionals earn 10–15% more than non-certified peers.
• Entry-level professionals with AIGP can expect $60,000–$85,000 annually, depending on region and industry.
• Senior IG roles, once built upon AIGP, can reach over $120,000–$150,000.

This pay differential makes it clear: AIGP certification is an investment with long-term returns.

4. Skill Validation

The AIGP exam assesses practical knowledge that directly translates into real-world responsibilities. It’s not just about theory; it covers regulations, governance models, data classification, retention schedules, and risk controls.By earning AIGP, professionals show employers they’re job-ready and committed to data responsibility — which is especially valuable in a compliance-sensitive world.

5. Affiliation with ARMA International

Being certified by ARMA International adds considerable credibility. ARMA is globally recognized for setting IG standards and best practices. By holding an AIGP, you’re immediately part of a professional community that values ethical, standardized governance practices.

How Much Does the AIGP Certification Cost?

• Exam Fee: $300–$350 (for ARMA members and non-members)
• ARMA Membership (Optional but Beneficial): $175/year
• Study Materials: Approx. $100–$150 (self-study or third-party providers)

Compared to other certifications in compliance or governance, AIGP is relatively affordable while delivering high career value.

How to Prepare for the AIGP Exam

Preparation for AIGP typically includes:

1. ARMA’s Official Study Guide – Covers exam domains like risk, privacy, security, and IG frameworks.
2. Online Courses – Some platforms and ARMA itself offer webinars and e-learning programs.
3. Practice Exams – Mock tests can help you simulate exam scenarios and identify weak areas.

Candidates usually spend 6–8 weeks preparing, depending on their background knowledge and study time availability.

Pros and Cons of AIGP Certification

✅ Pros

• Industry-recognized credential
• Affordable certification cost
• High relevance in today’s data privacy landscape
• Pathway to higher-level certifications (like IGP or CIPP)
• Validates foundational and strategic IG knowledge

❌ Cons

• Not as well-known as broader certifications (e.g., CISSP or PMP)
• Focused more on North American legal and regulatory frameworks
• Limited to those in or pursuing IG-related roles

If you’re not planning a career in data, compliance, or governance, the AIGP may not align with your goals.

Alternatives to AIGP Certification

If you’re still on the fence, consider these alternative certifications based on your goals:

However, AIGP remains the ideal entry point into governance if you don’t yet qualify for these advanced certifications.

Final Verdict: Is the AIGP Certification Worth It in 2025?

Absolutely — if you’re planning a career in information governance, compliance, or data privacy, then the AIGP certification is definitely worth it. It’s affordable, respected, and directly aligns with growing employer demand. While it may not hold universal recognition like some IT certifications, in the IG space, it opens doors, boosts credibility, and leads to rewarding roles.

In a world where data breaches, regulatory audits, and digital transformation are daily realities, professionals who can navigate governance complexities will always be in demand. AIGP gives you the tools and confidence to be one of them.

Conclusion: Is AIGP Certification Worth It? Yes!

The AIGP certification offers a clear value proposition for those entering or advancing within the field of information governance. It affirms your skills, aligns with regulatory trends, and positions you for long-term career growth. So if you’re still wondering whether “AIGP certification worth it” — the answer is a confident YES, especially in today’s compliance-centric digital environment.