AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate (SAA-C03) tests whether you can design solutions on AWS based on the AWS Well-Architected Framework. Here is how the exam works in 2026, the four domains and their weights, what each domain covers, who it is aimed at, how to keep the certification, and our suggested study plan.

Is SAA-C03 being replaced?

Not as far as AWS has said. AWS’s September 2026 certification update announced new versions of three exams: Machine Learning Engineer – Associate, Solutions Architect – Professional and Developer – Associate. It did not include Solutions Architect – Associate. As of 28 October 2026, the AWS exam guides index still lists SAA-C03, and the AWS Training and Certification blog has not announced a successor.

The only change AWS has announced is about language: the Italian version of the exam will be retired after 31 December 2026 .…