Project Management guide · Careers and certification
PMP Certification: Requirements, Exam and How to Prepare
The Project Management Professional (PMP) is PMI's flagship certification for experienced project managers. It shows you have both the experience and the knowledge to lead projects using predictive, Agile and hybrid approaches.
Key takeaways
- The PMP is for experienced project managers who meet PMI's education and experience rules.
- The exam has 180 questions in 230 minutes covering predictive, Agile and hybrid work.
- Keep it active with 60 PDUs every three years.
Eligibility requirements
| Education | Project experience | Project management education |
|---|---|---|
| Four-year degree | 36 months leading projects | 35 contact hours (or CAPM) |
| Secondary diploma or associate's degree | 60 months leading projects | 35 contact hours (or CAPM) |
PMI also has a route for graduates of certain accredited degree programmes. Always confirm the current rules on PMI's website; see 35 contact hours.
The exam
- 180 questions in 230 minutes.
- Questions cover people, process and business environment topics.
- A mix of predictive, Agile and hybrid scenarios.
- Question formats include multiple choice, multiple response, matching and hotspot.
- Taken online with a proctor or at a test centre.
How to apply
- Complete your 35 contact hours of project management education.
- Create a PMI account and start the online application.
- Describe each qualifying project: objective, role, outcome and dates.
- Submit and wait for review; some applications are selected for audit.
- Pay the exam fee (check PMI's site for the current member and non-member amounts).
- Schedule the exam.
A 10-week study plan
| Weeks | Focus |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | Fundamentals: PMBOK Guide principles, processes, life cycles |
| 3-4 | Scope, schedule and cost, including earned value |
| 5-6 | People: leadership, conflict, teams, stakeholders |
| 7-8 | Agile and hybrid: Scrum, Kanban, servant leadership |
| 9 | Full-length timed practice exams |
| 10 | Review weak areas and rest |
Keeping the PMP active
PMP holders must earn 60 PDUs every three years and pay a renewal fee. PDUs come from education (split across the Talent Triangle) and giving back to the profession.
Frequently asked questions
What are the PMP requirements?
35 contact hours of project management education (or a CAPM), plus 36 months of experience leading projects with a four-year degree, or 60 months without one.
How many questions are on the PMP exam?
180 questions, with 230 minutes to complete them.
How much does the PMP cost?
PMI sets different fees for members and non-members and updates them from time to time. Check PMI's website for current figures.
Is the PMP exam hard?
It is challenging because questions are scenario-based and test judgement. Most candidates need several weeks of structured study.
Can I take the PMP exam online?
Yes. PMI offers online proctored exams as well as test centres.
How long is the PMP valid?
Three years. You renew by earning 60 PDUs and paying the renewal fee.
What is a PMP audit?
PMI randomly selects some applications and asks for evidence of education and experience before you can sit the exam.
Does the PMP include Agile?
Yes. A large part of the exam covers Agile and hybrid approaches.
How long should I study for the PMP?
Many candidates study for two to three months, but it depends on experience and available time.
Is the PMP worth it?
For experienced project managers it is widely recognised and often requested by employers. Check job adverts in your market to judge demand.