To be a PMI certified Project Management Professional (PMP ®), one can ideally follow the process described below. This process is developed based on experience with the PMP ® certification process and guides you through the necessary steps:
Verify the conditions: To be eligible for the PMP Exam Prep, you must meet the following conditions:
During the last 8 years you should have at least 4,500 hours of project management experience to demonstrate (7500 hours if you are not in possession of a bachelor or master degree or equivalent). You must have experience in all project areas (initiation, planning, implementation, management and closure).
Agree with the 'PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct.
Have at least 35 hours of training in project management, e.g. through a Registered Education Provider.
Begin your preparation
It is encouraged that you have at least 3 months in advance to begin PMP Exam Prep. The following literature can help you in your preparation:
- PMBOK ® Guide 4th Edition
- Harold Kerzner "A systems approach to planning scheduling and controlling"
Start by taking the literature before you participate in a preparatory training for the PMP ® exam and gain the required 35 training hours. Virtually all preparatory training in the PMP ® exam requires you to at least have read the last edition of the PMBOK ® Guide.
Take part in an exercise to achieve your 35 contact hours
It is now the time for training to find you continue to prepare for the PMP ® exam. A preparatory training for the PMP ® exam helps you better understand the actual PMP Exam Prep and learn important knowledge and methods of project management knowledge areas, as discussed in the PMI standard.
It is recommended that the training is as close as possible to the desired exam date schedule. Modular training or preparation in distance learning programs can help you leverage the expert knowledge for a long time.
Sign up for the PMP ® Certification
Once you have the 35 contact hours required for the PMP ® exam, you can register for the PMP ® exam.
Now you must wait for the processing of the application by PMI. Normally it takes 5 business days. 10% of all applications are subject to an audit by PMI, and check that all information submitted in relation to project management experience is accurate, and references are verified.
If you filled out the forms correctly there will be no problems in audit.
Once your application is approved by PMI, you can pay for the certification.
Once your payment is received by PMI, you will receive your Letter of Eligibility with a code and you can schedule your exam at a Prometric Test Center (www.prometric.com).
Exams on paper are only taken for large groups or within companies. Take part in the exam and earn your certificate.