## LEED GA vs LEED AP: the short answer **LEED Green Associate (GA)** is the foundational credential — no project experience required. Exam fee $250–$350. **LEED AP (Accredited Professional)** is the specialist credential — project experience required, $450–$550 exam fee. **LEED AP BD+C** is the most common in commercial construction. ## Which do employers actually want? Employers consistently value LEED AP over LEED GA for project roles. Design and engineering firms overwhelmingly prefer LEED AP BD+C. GA appears as "preferred" but rarely as "required." ## Career impact LEED AP BD+C adds approximately $8–$14/hr to consulting rates for sustainability-adjacent roles. For sustainability director or LEED project manager roles, it's often required. [Build your AEC profile with credentials →](/build-profile)