The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is widely recognized as the gold standard in project management credentials, offering professionals a significant edge in a competitive job market.
As organizations around the world increasingly adopt project management methodologies, the demand for certified project managers continues to grow. One of the most common questions aspiring PMPs ask is, “How much does it cost to book the PMP exam?”
The cost of booking for the Project Management Professional (PMP) exam can vary significantly based on several factors, including membership status with the Project Management Institute (PMI), training options, and additional resources.
Key components of the total investment include exam fees, PMI membership costs, training and preparation expenses, booking costs and additional costs such as study materials and renewal fees.
This article provides a detailed analysis of the various costs associated with PMP certification globally, enabling candidates to make informed decisions and effectively budget for this important career advancement.
Whether you are an experienced project manager or just beginning your journey, understanding these costs is essential for planning your path to certification.
PMP Exam Fees
The most significant fixed expense is the exam fee, which varies depending on whether the candidate is a PMI member.
For PMI members, the exam fee is $405, while non-members must pay $555. This fee covers the initial attempt at the exam. If a candidate needs to retake the exam, the fees are $275 for PMI members and $375 for non-members.
PMI Membership Fee
It is not necessary for you to become a PMI member to sit for your PMP® certification exam. However, joining PMI can provide substantial savings on the exam fee. The annual membership fee typically ranges from $139 to $159, which includes a $10 application fee for new members.
By becoming a member, candidates not only benefit from the reduced exam fee but also gain access to valuable resources, including:
- A free digital copy of the PMBOK Guide, which is essential for exam preparation.
- Access to a wealth of project management resources, publications, and networking opportunities.
- Discounts on training and certification renewal fees.
Why Becoming a PMI Member Is Important
Becoming a member of the Project Management Institute (PMI) offers numerous advantages for professionals pursuing the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification and advancing their careers in project management.
- Cost Savings on Certification Fees
One of the most immediate benefits of PMI membership is the reduced cost of certification exams.
- Exam Fee Discounts: For PMI members, the PMP exam fee is $405, while non-members pay $555. This represents a savings of $150 on the exam fee alone, making membership financially advantageous for those planning to take the exam .
- Renewal Fee Discounts: Members also benefit from lower renewal fees. The renewal fee for PMI members is $60, compared to $150 for non-members .
- Access to Valuable Resources
PMI membership provides access to a wealth of resources that can enhance a candidate’s preparation for the PMP exam and ongoing professional development.
- PMBOK Guide: Members receive a free digital copy of the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) Guide, which is essential for understanding the standards and practices in project management .
- Study Materials and Tools: PMI members often have access to exclusive study materials, webinars, and tools that can aid in exam preparation and professional growth.
- Networking Opportunities
Membership in PMI opens doors to a vast network of project management professionals.
- Local Chapters: PMI has local chapters worldwide, providing opportunities for members to connect with peers, attend events, and participate in professional development activities.
- Global Community: Being part of PMI connects members to a global community of project managers, facilitating knowledge sharing, mentorship, and collaboration.
Find Out: Is PMP Certification Worth it?
- Professional Development and Continuing Education
PMI emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and professional development.
- Professional Development Units (PDUs): Members can earn PDUs through various activities, including attending PMI events, participating in webinars, and completing training courses. This is essential for maintaining PMP certification, which requires 60 PDUs every three years .
- Access to Training Programs: PMI offers a range of training programs and certification courses that help members stay current with industry trends and best practices.
- Recognition and Credibility
Being a PMI member enhances a professional’s credibility in the field of project management.
- Global Standards: PMI is recognized worldwide for its high standards in project management. Membership signifies a commitment to professional excellence and adherence to ethical practices.
- Career Advancement: Many employers value PMI membership and may prefer or require it for certain project management roles, thereby enhancing job prospects and career advancement opportunities .
- Advocacy and Influence
PMI advocates for the project management profession and its practitioners.
- Industry Influence: As a member, individuals contribute to PMI’s efforts to promote the value of project management in various industries, influencing policies and practices that affect project managers globally.
- Access to Research and Publications: Members receive access to PMI’s research publications, which provide insights into industry trends, challenges, and innovations.
Therefore, joining PMI is a strategic decision for anyone serious about advancing their career in project management.
Check out: How to pass PMP Exams
PMP Retake Costs
If you have pursued the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification and did not pass the examination on your first attempt, you can retake the exam according to the policy set by the Project Management Institute (PMI), the organization that administers the exam.
Before diving into strategies for your next attempt, let’s review some important details. The exam fee for the second and third attempts is discounted and varies based on your PMI membership status.
Overview of Retake Fees
If a candidate does not pass the PMP exam on their first attempt, they will incur additional costs for retaking the exam:
- Retake Fee for PMI Members: $275
- Retake Fee for Non-Members: $375
These fees apply for each subsequent attempt within a one-year period. Candidates are allowed a maximum of three attempts to pass the exam within this timeframe. If candidates do not pass after three attempts, they must wait one year before reapplying.
Additional Considerations
- Rescheduling or Cancellation Fees
If a candidate needs to reschedule or cancel their exam appointment, PMI charges a fee of $70 if this is done within 30 days of the scheduled exam.
If a candidate cancels more than 30 days in advance, there is no fee.
- Impact on Total Costs
Retaking the exam can significantly increase the total investment required for PMP certification. For example, if a PMI member fails the exam once and retakes it, their total costs could rise from approximately $2,144 to $2,419 (including the retake fee).
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PMP Training Costs
Training is a crucial aspect of preparing for the Project Management Professional (PMP) exam, and the associated costs can vary widely based on the format and provider.
Online Courses
Online training offers flexibility and convenience, making it a popular choice among candidates. The costs for online PMP training courses typically range from $150 to $2,300.
Self-Paced Online Courses: These courses allow candidates to learn at their own pace and are generally more affordable. Prices can start as low as $150.
Comprehensive Programs: More extensive online programs that include interactive features, case studies, and assessments can cost significantly more. For instance, Villanova University offers an online PMP prep course priced at around $1,895.
Live Virtual Classes: Some providers offer live virtual classes that provide real-time interaction with instructors. These courses can cost approximately $1,500 for PMI members and $1,800 for non-members.
In-Person Training
In-person training sessions provide direct engagement with instructors and opportunities for networking with peers. The costs for PMI-approved in-person training sessions generally range from $1,500 to $3,000.
Two-Day Courses: A typical two-day PMI-approved training course may cost around $1,500 for members and $1,800 for non-members. These courses often cover essential project management topics and include practice exams.
Four-Day Courses: More intensive four-day training programs can range from $2,500 to $3,045 for members, depending on the depth and comprehensiveness of the course content.
Check Out: Top Strategies for Passing Online Exams
PMP Additional Expenses
1. Study Materials
Candidates often need to purchase supplementary study materials to enhance their preparation for the PMP exam. These materials can include reference books, practice exams, and other resources.
– PMBOK Guide: The Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) Guide is the foundational resource for the PMP exam.
– Cost: Free for PMI members; approximately $100 for non-members.
– Additional Study Books: Many candidates choose to invest in additional PMP exam preparation books to broaden their understanding of the material.
– Cost: Ranges from $100 to $180.
– Practice Exams and Mock Questions: Access to practice exams and mock questions is crucial for familiarizing oneself with the exam format and types of questions.
– Cost: Ranges from $50 to $150 depending on the provider and the number of practice tests included.
2. Renewal Fees:
Once certified, PMP holders must maintain their certification by earning 60 Professional Development Units (PDUs) every three years. This requirement ensures that certified professionals continue to develop their skills and stay current in the field.
Renewal Fee:
– For PMI Members: $60.
– For Non-Members: $150.
This fee is applicable every three years and is essential for maintaining the PMP certification.
3. Miscellaneous Costs:
Candidates may encounter other costs associated with the certification process, including:
– Application Processing Fee: While PMI does not charge a specific application fee, candidates should be aware that there may be costs associated with submitting their application or any required documentation.
– Rescheduling or Cancellation Fees: If a candidate needs to reschedule or cancel their exam appointment, PMI charges a fee of $70 if this is done within 30 days of the scheduled exam. If a candidate cancels more than 30 days in advance, there is no fee.
Total Cost Estimation
To provide a clearer picture of the total costs involved in obtaining the PMP certification, we can summarize the expenses based on different scenarios:
Scenario 1: PMI Member
- Initial Exam Fee: $405
- PMI Membership Fee: $139
- Training Costs: $1,500 (average online course)
- Study Materials: $100 (additional books)
- Total Estimated Cost: $2,144
Scenario 2: Non-Member
- Initial Exam Fee: $555
- PMI Membership Fee: N/A
- Training Costs: $1,895 (average online course)
- Study Materials: $100 (additional books)
- Total Estimated Cost: $2,550
Scenario 3: Retake Costs
If a candidate fails the exam and needs to retake it, additional costs will apply:
- Retake Fee for PMI Members: $275
- Retake Fee for Non-Members: $375
Scenario 4: PMI Member + Online Exam Help
- Initial Exam Fee: $405
- PMI Membership Fee: $139
- Training Costs: N/A
- Study Materials: N/A
- Online Exam Help Costs
- Total Estimated Cost: Ranges $544 – $1700
By planning for these costs and utilizing the most affordable options, you can pass your PMP exam without unnecessary strain.
Continue Reading: Take My online Exams
FAQS
What Are the Current Fees for PMP?
The current fees for the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification are $405 for PMI members and $555 for non-members.
Additionally, PMI membership costs $129 annually, which can provide a discount on the exam fee. For re-examinations, the fees are $275 for members and $375 for non-members.
Does the PMP Exam Cost Money?
Yes, the PMP exam requires payment. The fees are $405 for PMI members and $555 for non-members. Additionally, candidates may incur costs for study materials and preparation courses.
For the latest information on fees and potential additional expenses, it’s recommended to visit the Project Management Institute (PMI) website.
How To Pay for the PMP Exam?
To pay for the PMP exam, you can register through the Project Management Institute (PMI) website. After creating an account, select the exam and proceed to checkout.
Payment can be made using a credit card or PayPal. Ensure that you are logged in as a PMI member to access the discounted fee. Always check for any specific payment options or updates on the PMI website.
Do You Have To Pay Every Time You Take PMP Exam?
Yes, you must pay each time you take the PMP exam. If you do not pass on your first attempt, you will need to pay the exam fee again for subsequent attempts.
However, PMI offers a discount for re-examinations: the fee is $275 for members and $375 for non-members.
How Can I Pass the PMP Exam on My First Attempt?
For a guaranteed pass on your first attempt, consider hiring a PMP expert to take the exam for you. This is the most effective way to pass the PMP exam with high scores. It’s easy and eliminates the need for extensive studying.