AWS SAA-C03 Passing Score
You need 720 out of 1000 to pass — but that is a scaled score, not 72% of questions correct. Here is how AWS scoring actually works, the domain weights, what practice score means you are ready, and the retake policy.
01 The short answer
02 How AWS scoring actually works
Two design choices in the AWS scoring model explain almost every confusion about the 720 number.
1. It is a scaled score, not a raw percentage
AWS converts your raw result (how many questions you got right) into a scaled score from 100 to 1000. Scaling equates results across different versions of the exam that may be slightly harder or easier, so everyone is held to the same standard. The practical effect: 720 does not mean 72% correct. Depending on how hard your particular form was, the raw percentage you needed could be a little above or below 72%. Aim well clear of the line so form difficulty never decides your result.
2. It is compensatory — only the total matters
SAA-C03 uses a compensatory model: there is no minimum score per domain. A strong showing in one area can offset a weaker one, as long as your overall scaled score reaches 720. You will still see a per-domain “meets / does not meet competencies” breakdown on your score report, but that breakdown does not gate your pass — it is feedback, not a second hurdle.
03 The four domains and their weights
Because scoring is compensatory, the smart move is to weight your study toward the heaviest domains. Secure and Resilient architectures are more than half the exam between them.
04 What practice score means you are ready
Because the real exam is scaled, the best readiness signal is a repeatable score on fresh, full-length, timed practice exams — not one lucky run. Use this scale.
05 If you fail: the retake policy
Falling short of 720 is not the end — but AWS makes you wait and pay again, so it is worth being ready first.
| Rule | Detail |
|---|---|
| Waiting period | 14 calendar days before you can retake a failed exam |
| Attempt limit | No cap on total attempts (the 14-day wait applies between each) |
| Cost per attempt | The full $150 exam fee every time — no discounted retake |
| Your score report | Shows the per-domain breakdown — use it to target your weakest area before rebooking |
06 FAQ
What is the passing score for AWS SAA-C03?
You need 720 out of 1000 to pass the AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate (SAA-C03). Scores are reported on a scaled 100–1000 range, and 720 is the minimum passing mark set by AWS.
Is a 720 the same as getting 72% of questions correct?
No. AWS uses scaled scoring that equates results across exam versions of slightly different difficulty, so 720 does not map directly to 72% correct. Depending on your particular form, the raw percentage needed can be a little above or below 72%.
Do I need to pass each domain on SAA-C03?
No. SAA-C03 uses a compensatory model, so only your overall scaled score matters. There is no minimum for any individual domain — a strong area can offset a weaker one as long as your total reaches 720.
How long do I wait to retake SAA-C03 if I fail?
AWS requires a 14-day wait before retaking a failed exam. There is no limit on total attempts, but you pay the full $150 fee each time — so it pays to be genuinely ready before booking.
