What is PMP®?

PMP Certification, or Project Management Certification, stands as one of the most sought-after certifications among individuals searching for a job. It is a globally recognized credential awarded by the PMI (Project Management Institute). To earn PMP certification, a candidate has to pass a comprehensive exam that assesses a candidate’s ability to manage the people, processes, and business goals of a project.

Although PMP certification is not mandatory for most company positions, it is a widely recognized credential that can improve the credibility of your resume. Attaining PMP® certification signifies a mastery of project management principles and a commitment to professional development.

Journey to PMP Certification

Acquiring a PMP certification, although not very difficult, it demands certain eligibility criteria. To earn this certification, you need to meet the experience requirements and also pass an exam. Follow the steps mentioned below to get your PMP certification.

1. Eligibility Criteria: Before you start your PMP journey, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the exam. To pass the PMP exam, you need to either have:

• Secondary degree along with 35 hours of project management education, experience of 7500 hours for directing and leading projects, and at least 60 months of professional project management experience.

Or

• Four-year degree along with 35 hours of project management education, experience of 4500 hours for directing and leading projects, and at least 36 months of professional project management experience.

1. Apply for the PMP Exam: The second step is to register you on the PMI platform. In the application form, you need to share your basic details, educational qualifications, and experience in the field of project management.
2. Prepare for the PMP Exam: The PMP exam is quite rigorous and covers various project management topics, including initiating, planning, executing, monitoring and controlling, and closing projects. You can start preparation by making a study schedule, or can get yourself enrolled in PMP online certification courses from Knowlathon. The course from Knowlathon is designed for beginners and project managers and covers all important topics related to PMP.  
3. Take the PMP Exam: The PMP exam evaluates your knowledge and understanding of project management concepts, tools, and techniques. You have the flexibility to choose where you take your exam. You can take your exam from a designated testing center like Knowlathon or the comfort of your own home. This flexibility caters to the diverse needs and preferences of candidates, ensuring a convenient and accessible testing experience.
4. Maintaining Your Certification: The PMP certification is valid for up to 3 years. PMP certification holders must maintain their credentials by earning 60 Professional Development Units (PDUs) through ongoing education and professional activities. Or, you can sign up to take the PMP exam again.

PMP Exam

The PMP exam consists of 180 questions, which have to be answered in 230 minutes. This exam is a combination of multiple-choice, multiple responses, matching, hotspot, and fill-in-the-blank question types.

The PMP exam questions are divided into the following three sections:

1. Process: This section is 50% of the exam and tests your knowledge of the methodology of grasping a project. Here, you may be asked questions related to managing budgets and other resources, scheduling, handling changes in the project, and determining the best methodologies for a unique project.
2. People: Overall, 42% of the PMP exam, this domain includes questions on leading and building teams, managing conflict, supporting virtual teams, monitoring, and similar related topics.
3. Business: 8% of the exam, this business environment portion broadly deals with more business-minded aspects. As a project manager you are likely to tackle compliance, delivering value, and will require supporting organizational change. Therefore, this section is based on business-related aspects.

How Worth is PMP Certification?

Having a PMP certification under your belt offers various benefits, including:

• Career Advancement: PMP certification enhances career opportunities and offers opportunities to higher-level positions in the field of project management. Employers value this credential and consider it as evidence of your expertise and commitment to excellence.
• Global Recognition: PMP certification is recognized and respected worldwide. Whether you are looking to work in your country or want to go abroad, PMP signifies a standardized level of project management practices.
• Better Earning Potential: PMP-certified professionals are likely to earn almost 18% more than their counterparts. According to the Global Knowledge reports, PMP certification ranks fifth among IT certifications linked to the highest salary in the IT sector. Organizations are willing to invest more in certified project managers due to their demonstrated skills and ability to deliver more successful outcomes.
• Better Job Prospects: According to the Project Management Institute, there is a widening gap between available project managers and positions that need to be filled. Moreover, there is a strong growth for project manager jobs in the international market with an estimated growth of 33%.
• Professional Network: PMP certification connects you with a vast network of professionals and industry experts. More engagement with the community offers better opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and career growth.

PMP Exam Training

There are several styles you can choose from to prepare for the PMP exam. Some of the common approaches are:

• Classroom-Based Training: Here, you can learn in a physical classroom setting, where an instructor will guide you through exam content and provide lectures accordingly.
• Online Training: Online platforms offer self-paced online courses that allow you to study at your own convenience. You can also choose a virtual online classroom where you can attend live sessions with an instructor.
• Blended Learning: Blended learning combines elements of classroom-based learning and online training. You can attend in-person sessions for certain topics, and access online resources for self-paced learning.

Conclusion

The PMP certification is designed to leverage the training an experienced project manager already has. If you are just starting as a project manager, or looking to gain more experience, the PMP certification can be an ultimate professional credential and can provide you a transformative journey towards achieving excellence.

If you are ready to take the challenge and want to invest in your professional development, click here and get enroll for PMP certification today.