PMP Certification Exam
Vivek Jayaraman
2nd Nov, 2020
Project Managers with knowledge and skills are in huge demand. Project Management Professional (PMP) by the Project Management Institute (PMI) is one of the top certifications for Project Managers. It is the most preferred certification for Project Managers, and many companies do keep PMP mandatory when they are hiring Project Managers. Having a PMP certification provides knowledge and helps you acquire skills, and increases your chance of landing a job.
What are the qualifications to become PMP certified?
One of the things that makes PMP valuable is that it needs prior experience to pursue it. One needs the below requirements to apply for PMP certification.
- A four-year degree
- Three years or 36 months in project management
- 35 hours of project management training or education
- If you have an Associate Certification in Project Management (CAPM), then 35 hours of training or education is not mandatory.
We know there will be questions about what if I don't have a four-year degree. What if I have only a three-year degree or a diploma? Yes, you will able to apply for PMP provided you have the below requirements.
- A high school diploma or an Associate's degree (Three-year graduation)
- Minimum five years or 60 months in project management.
- 35 hours of project management training or education
- If you have an Associate Certification in Project Management (CAPM), then 35 hours of training or education is not mandatory.
Before applying for PMP, go through the checklist here.
PMP Certification Cost
PMP Certification cost in India is ₹23,459.00, provided if you are a PMI member. For non-PMI members, the PMP exam fees in India is ₹42,863.00. PMP certification fees are different across geographies. Refer to the below chart for PMP certification costs in India, the US, and Europe.
Applying for PMP Exam
Create your account in PMI, and initiate your application process. Gather all the details as per the checklist mentioned in the qualifications section of this article. You need to fill out the online application with all your project details as expected. Once submitted, pmi.org will review it. You can proceed with the next step only when your application is reviewed and accepted.
Once it is approved, you can go ahead and pay the fees as per your geographical location. Member and non-member prices differ. Check the PMP certification cost to know the prices. You have to pay the certification fees before taking up the exam.
Preparing for PMP Exam
PMP exams are known for their toughness. PMP professionals who have taken the exams commented that it is hard to clear PMP exams unless one goes without proper preparation. Preparation is the key to clearing PMP exams. PMI suggests having a regular study schedule that involves dedication. Go through the PMBOK and related study materials that can help you. There are also mock tests that are available for free on the Leanpitch Platform. Take up a free mock test to see where you stand.
Practice exams are an excellent way to keep a check on your preparation. Be a part of local PMI chapters to attend webinars and meetups that help you with your knowledge. PMBOK is the primary reference book, and go through it until you are clear with the concepts. Successful PMP candidates use multiple study aids, courses, self-study, and join study groups.
Taking up the PMP exam
PMP exams are available in the online format now and can be taken online from your chosen location. You may have questions about what is needed for taking the online exam.
- Schedule your online exam
- Have a computer with a reliable internet connection
- A webcam is needed
- A comfortable place to take up the exam with peace of mind
You have to attend to 200 questions in a four-hour timebox, and it will be without a break. Read the PMP code of ethics before starting the test. You have to demonstrate your proficiency in the five project management groups to get optimum results. The PMP test pass rate is 61% and is purely based on your answering in the tests. Online exam results will be immediately published.
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