PMP Exam Guide

PMP certification explained: what the PMP is and what it's worth, who qualifies, how to get certified step by step, and how to keep it current with PDUs.

The PMP certification requirements explained: the experience and 35 contact hours you need, the four eligibility paths, and how to qualify without a degree.

How much does PMP certification cost? A full breakdown of exam fees, PMI membership, training, and renewal — plus the simple move that saves you $250.

How to complete the PMP application: set up your PMI account, document your experience with real examples, handle a possible audit, and schedule the exam.

The PMP Exam Content Outline (ECO) explained: the three domains and their 2026 weightings, the heavier agile and hybrid focus, and the full exam format.

A step-by-step PMP study plan: the 10 steps to follow, a sample weekly schedule, the best study resources, and how to pace your prep to pass on the first try.

How long to study for the PMP? Most candidates need about 8–12 weeks and 60–120 hours, depending on experience. A realistic timeline, hours per week, and more.

PMP exam tips that actually work: how to think the PMI way under time pressure, what to expect on exam day, online vs test center, and the retake policy.

A PMP formulas cheat sheet with every formula worth memorizing: earned value (EVM), critical path, three-point estimating, ROI, and EMV, plus a worked example.

There's no published PMP passing score, and the famous 61% is a myth. How PMI actually scores the exam, how many questions it has, and the score to aim for.

How hard is the PMP exam? It's challenging but passable — first-attempt pass rate is an estimated 60–70%. Why it's hard, the real pass rate, and how to pass.

The PMI Code of Ethics explained: the four values — responsibility, respect, fairness, honesty — plus mandatory vs aspirational standards and how it's tested.

Is PMP certification worth it? For most experienced PMs, yes — a ~$26k/year salary premium against a few hundred to ~$1,000 cost. The honest ROI breakdown.

How much is a PMP certification salary? US PMP holders earn a median $135,000 — about 24% more than non-certified PMs. See the premium, growth, and ROI.

CAPM vs PMP: the CAPM is entry-level with no experience required; the PMP is for experienced PMs. Compare cost, exams, salary, and which one to choose.

PMP renewal made simple: earn 60 PDUs every 3 years and pay the renewal fee — no re-exam. What PDUs are, how to earn them free, and how CAPM renewal works.