If you’re a project manager, you’ve likely heard of these three letters tossed around in every conversation about certification. The PMP certificate is a popular credential many project managers add to their professional resume, with over 1.2 million people holding the title.
But what is it really, and is it worth the effort?
In this guide, I’ll explain PMP certification, from why project managers pursue it to its requirements and, finally, whether it’s worth the investment.
Key Takeaways
- 1.5 Million Certificates Globally: Over 1.5 million project managers have achieved PMP certification.
- Internationally Recognized: The PMP credential is globally recognized and offered by PMI.
- Higher Earnings: Being PMP certified can boost your earning potential.
- Experience Required: You need significant project management experience to qualify.
- A Huge Commitment: Getting PMP-certified requires an extended investment of time, money, and effort.
PMP Certification Explained
PMP certification is a credential provided by the Project Management Institute (PMI), recognizing professionals who have demonstrated knowledge, skills, and experience in managing projects.
As the leading industry project management organization, the PMI offers project management training, tools, and networking opportunities to over 600,000 members worldwide.
It’s one of the most respected certifications for project managers! Earning the PMP credential proves your ability to manage projects across various industries, which is vital to growing your career as a project manager.
Why Do Project Managers Get PMP Certified?
If you have peers and colleagues who are PMP certified, you’ve probably wondered why they pursued it. PMP looks outstanding on a resume, of course, but why else would one choose to have this credential in their stackup?
- Opens the Door to New Career Opportunities
- Builds Core Project Management Skills
- Provides a Framework for How to Manage Projects
- Increases Potential for a Promotion or Raise
The numbers show that having a PMP certification can give your earning potential a huge boost.
79% of project managers surveyed under ‘PMI’s Earning Power: Project Management Salary Survey—Twelfth Edition’ hold a PMP certification. Across 40 countries, PMP-certified professionals earn, on average, 16% higher median salaries than those without the certification.
Now that we’ve learned why project managers become PMP-certified let’s discuss the requirements for taking the exam.
PMP Certification Requirements
Before you dedicate your free time to exam prep, you have to know if you’re even eligible for the certification. Not just anyone can take the exam. In fact, the PMP certification is designed for experienced project managers.
Eligibility Criteria
Your educational background and overall project management experience will determine your eligibility.
Educational Background:
- If you have a four-year degree, you need 36 months of experience in leading projects.
- If you have a high school diploma or associate’s degree, you need 60 months of experience leading projects.
Project Management Education:
- You have to complete 35 hours of formal project management education. This can be accomplished through training programs or courses.
Experience:
- You must have experience managing projects. This means you should have led and directed teams, worked on project plans, managed budgets, and helped deliver projects successfully.
Once you’ve confirmed you’re eligible, it’s time to follow the steps to becoming a certified PMP!
How to Get PMP Certified
Getting PMP certified involves a few straightforward steps.
Step 1: Put in Your Application
Are you a real-life project manager who has on-the-job experience directing and leading a cross-functional team? Be prepared to show it! You’ll also have to prove you’ve met the requirements for formal project management education.
Pro tip: Are you keeping records of your project management experience and education? Having clear documentation will make filling out the application SO much easier and faster. No one wants to scramble for receipts.
Step 2: Everyone’s Least Favorite Part—Studying
Stu(dying). Coincidence? I don’t think so.
Once your application is accepted, it’s officially time to buckle down and prepare for the exam. The PMP exam is challenging, covering topics like project planning, execution, monitoring, and closing.
Most candidates spend a few months preparing, using resources made specifically for project managers pursuing PMP certification. Definitely make use of online PMP courses like Brain Sensei, PM PrepCast, or study groups, as well. Studying gets lonely, and collaborating with others will more than likely boost your confidence.
Pro tip: Create a personalized study schedule with your daily or weekly goals. Breaking them into smaller chunks will make them feel more manageable and help you actually absorb what you’re learning.
Step 3: Schedule (and Take) the Exam
Once you’re positive you know your stuff, schedule your exam. It can be taken either in person or online.
The exam is a 200-question multiple-choice test, and you’ll have four hours to complete it. Don’t be hard on yourself if you don’t pass on your first try—you can take the exam up to three times within a year.
Pro tip: Schedule your exam for the time of day when you feel most alert—whether you’re a morning go-getter or a night owl, timing can make a big difference in your focus and performance!
Step 4: Stay Certified
Once you pass, your certification is valid for three years. During this time, you have to earn 60 professional development units (PDUs) to maintain your certification. This can be done through further education, like seminars or professional project management activities (volunteering).
Pro tip: Don’t procrastinate earning those PDUs! Ideally, you want to complete a few each year so you’re not rushing to meet the requirement when renewal time comes around.
Bottom Line: Is PMP Certification Worth the Investment?
Let’s officially address the question that looms in a lot of project manager minds: Is PMP certification worth your time?
The answer depends on your career goals. If you’re working in an industry where project management is important—construction, IT, healthcare, marketing, etc.—PMP certification will make you stand out. Many companies value it highly, and it can be the deciding factor in whether you’re hired or promoted.
Keep in mind the time, money, and effort involved. You’ll need to balance your work responsibilities with studying, which could require a significant amount of time and effort. Having a tight schedule can make getting this certification feel like a never-ending battle.
However, if you’re willing to invest in your career, PMP certification can help you get your foot in the door for incredible opportunities.
FAQs
On average, it takes 3-6 months to study and get PMP certified, depending on your experience and the time you dedicate to preparing.
The PMP exam is one of the toughest in the project management field, with a pass rate of around 60%. It covers a range of topics, like project risk management, so retaining study materials is crucial.
PMP is valued in industries like construction, IT, healthcare, manufacturing, and finance, where project management skills are in high demand.
Yes! If you don’t have a four-year degree, you’ll need 5 years of project management experience instead of the 3 years required with a degree.
Yes, PMP certification is valid for three years. To maintain it, you must earn 60 Professional Development Units (PDUs) within that period.
