How to apply for PMP®

From Application to Certification

The application process may seem a bit daunting at first, but it is a very straightforward process! Let’s see it step by step:

Step 1: Check Eligibility Requirements

Step 2: Create a PMI Account

Step 3: Fill out the Online Application Form

Step 4: Document your Project Management Experience

Step 5: Add Project Management Education details

Step 6: Review and Submit your Application

Step 7: Application Review and Acceptance

Step 8: Prepare for the Exam

Step 9: Schedule the Exam

Step 10: Take and Pass the Exam

Let’s check these in detail:

Step 1: Check Eligibility Requirements

First you need to make sure you meet the eligibility criteria set by the Project Management Institute (PMI). Requirements include:

• A four-year degree + 36 months of leading projects + 35 hours of project management education.
• Alternatively, if you have a high school diploma or an associate's degree, you need 60 months of leading projects + 35 hours of project management education.

Tip #1: In order to attain the 35 PDUs easily and at the same time be certain that you are well prepared for the exam, attend a PMP Prep Course.  Selecting a PMI accredited Prep Course, will give you thorough guidance on what to expect in the exam, level of difficulty, study material and lots of sample questions – plus the 35 PDUs which will be automatically approved by PMI. No need to submit any other proof of training apart from your certificate.

Step 2: Create a PMI Account

Visit the official PMI website (https://www.pmi.org/) and create an account if you don't already have one. This account will serve as your portal for all things related to your PMP certification journey.

Tip #2: we recommend you also become a member of PMI. You get access to free resources, including a free e-copy of the PMBOK® Guide – you need to read this book at least once before attending a PMP Prep Course, and you need to revisit it for your preparation.

While membership with PMI is not mandatory for taking the test and getting certified, it is strongly recommended. The exam fee is $405 for members and $555 for non-members. Considering that PMI membership is priced at $129 per year, the reduced exam fee compensates for the cost of joining. Being a member grants you privilege such as complimentary electronic copies of the PMBOK® Guide, the Salary Report, and various other guides and standards issued by PMI.

Step 3: Fill Out the Online Application

Once you're logged in, locate the PMP certification section and start the online application. This will require you to input personal and professional information, including details about your education, project management experience, and contact information. Take your time. The application is save-as-you-go, so you can take a break if needed.

Step 4: Document Your Project Management Experience

Be prepared to provide a detailed record of your project management experience. This includes information about the projects you've worked on, the number of hours spent leading and directing projects, and the dates of your project management experience. Check for more information here to learn more about how you can document your experience.

Step 5: Add Project Management Education Details

Include information about any project management education you've received. This may include courses, workshops, or other educational experiences related to project management. Ensure you have completed at least 35 contact hours of project management education. Attending a PMI accredited 35-hour PMP preparation course will immediately take care of this issue with no further hassle of documenting past education.

Step 6: Review and Submit Your Application

Before submitting your application, carefully review all the information you've entered to ensure accuracy. Once you're satisfied, submit your application. You can pay for the exam fee after your application is accepted.

Step 7: Application Review & acceptance

After submission, your application will undergo a review process by PMI. This typically takes about 5 to 10 business days. If selected for an audit, you'll be notified and required to provide additional documentation to verify the information in your application. Once your application is approved, you will be requested to pay the certification fee and you'll receive an eligibility letter. This letter is valid for one year.

Step 8: Prepare for the Exam

Take a PMP Prep Course, attain reputable study materials, practice exams, and consider joining a study group to ensure you're well-prepared for the PMP exam.

Step 9: Schedule Your Exam

You may pay the certification fee and schedule your exam after being properly prepared and be certain that you have studied enough and you are ready to take the test. You can take your exam at a Pearson Vue Testing Center (recommended) or securely online. You have one year from the date of your eligibility letter to take the exam.

Step 10: Take and Pass the Exam

The PMP exam is a computer-based test consisting of multiple-choice questions. Once completed, you'll receive your results immediately. Your PMP official Certificate will be mailed to you within a few days and you will also receive it in electronic format.

Ready to embark on your PMP journey? Feel free to contact us for more information in the form below.