If you’re a PMI® exam taker, you may have already heard the big news: Pearson VUE is set to replace Prometric as the testing provider for all PMI® exams. This is a major change that will affect thousands of people every year, and it’s important that you understand how it will impact you and your upcoming exam. In this article, we’ll explore what you need to know about this announcement, how it affects your exam, and how you can prepare and stay up-to-date with the changes.
Important PMI® Update for Exam Takers
As of December 2019, PMI® has officially announced the transition from Prometric to Pearson VUE as the sole testing provider for all PMI® certification exams. This change is set to take effect on December 16, 2019, and will impact all PMI® exams, including the popular Project Management Professional (PMP)® exam.
What You Need to Know About the PMI® Announcement
The switch to Pearson VUE as the testing provider marks a major change for PMI® exam takers. Pearson VUE is a leading provider of computer-based testing services, and has been partnering with PMI® for other exams such as the PMI-ACP® (Agile Certified Practitioner) exam for some time. With this new partnership, PMI® hopes to deliver a more streamlined and consistent testing experience to individuals worldwide.
It is important to note that the transition to Pearson VUE as the sole testing provider for PMI® certification exams will also bring changes to the exam scheduling process. Exam takers will now be able to schedule their exams online through the Pearson VUE website, rather than through Prometric. Additionally, exam takers will have access to a wider range of testing locations, as Pearson VUE has a larger network of testing centers worldwide. PMI® has provided detailed instructions and resources to help exam takers navigate this transition smoothly.
How the PMI® Announcement Affects Your Exam
If you’re planning to take a PMI® exam in the near future, it’s important to understand how this announcement will impact you. Firstly, you’ll need to register for your exam with Pearson VUE instead of Prometric. This means that you’ll need to create a new account and schedule your exam through Pearson VUE’s website before the transition takes place in December 2019.
Changes to the PMP® Exam: What You Need to Know
For those taking the PMP® exam, there may be additional changes to take note of beyond the switch to Pearson VUE. As of June 30th, 2020, the PMP® exam content will be updated to reflect the latest practices and trends in project management. The exam itself will still consist of 200 multiple-choice questions, but the content will shift towards more agile and hybrid approaches to project management. Existing exam candidates will still have the option to take the exam based on the current PMBOK® Guide, Sixth Edition content until June 30th, 2020.
It’s important to note that the changes to the PMP® exam content are not just cosmetic. The shift towards agile and hybrid approaches reflects a broader trend in project management towards more flexible and adaptable methodologies. As such, it’s important for PMP® candidates to familiarize themselves with these new approaches and understand how they fit into the broader project management landscape. This may require additional study and preparation beyond what was previously required for the exam.
Taking the PMP® Exam Before or After June 30th, 2020
Regardless of whether you’re planning to take the PMP® exam before or after the changes take place, it’s essential that you are familiar with the updated content. PMI® has made study resources and training courses available to aid in exam preparation for the updated exam content.
How to Prepare for the PMP® Exam Based on Your Scheduled Date
It’s important to tailor your exam preparation based on your scheduled exam date. If you’re planning to take the PMP® exam before June 30th, 2020, you’ll need to focus on studying the current PMBOK® Guide, Sixth Edition content. Conversely, those planning to take the updated exam after June 30th, 2020, will need to focus on studying the updated exam content, which can be found in the new PMBOK® Guide, Seventh Edition.
For those planning to take the PMP® exam after June 30th, 2020, it’s important to note that the exam format will also be changing. The updated exam will consist of 180 questions, with a time limit of 230 minutes. This is a significant change from the current exam format, which consists of 200 questions with a time limit of 240 minutes.
In addition to the changes in exam format and content, PMI® has also updated the eligibility requirements for the PMP® exam. As of July 1st, 2020, candidates will need to have either a four-year degree and three years of project management experience, or a secondary degree and five years of project management experience. This is a change from the current eligibility requirements, which allow candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent to take the exam with seven years of project management experience.
Top Products to Help You Ace the PMP® Exam
PMP® Exam Prep Books and Resources You Can’t Miss
If you’re looking for additional study resources for the PMP® exam, there are plenty of options available to you. PMI® offers official exam prep textbooks, as well as online courses and practice exams to aid in your preparation. Other popular options include books such as Rita Mulcahy’s PMP® Exam Prep and Andy Crowe’s The PMP® Exam: How to Pass on Your First Try. These resources can provide valuable insights into exam content, exam-taking strategies, and more.
PMP® Exam Success Stories from Real Exam Takers
In addition to these resources, it can be helpful to read about the experiences of other exam takers who have successfully passed the PMP® exam. You can find success stories and advice from other PMP® exam takers on PMI’s website as well as on online forums like Reddit and LinkedIn. These stories can provide valuable insight into how to best prepare for the exam and what to expect on exam day.
Importance of Time Management During the PMP® Exam
One of the most important factors in successfully passing the PMP® exam is time management. The exam is timed, and you will need to answer 200 multiple-choice questions in four hours. It’s important to practice time management during your exam preparation by taking practice exams and timing yourself. During the actual exam, make sure to pace yourself and allocate enough time for each question. Remember, you can mark questions for review and come back to them later if you’re unsure. By practicing good time management, you can increase your chances of success on the PMP® exam.
Additional Resources for PMP® Exam Takers
PMI® Membership Benefits for Exam Takers
Don’t forget to take advantage of PMI® membership benefits as well. PMI® offers exclusive resources and discounts to its members, including access to its online library of project management resources, discounted exam fees, and access to PMI® events and networking opportunities. PMI® membership can provide valuable support and additional resources throughout your exam preparation and beyond.
How to Stay Up-to-Date with PMI® Exam Changes and Updates
Finally, it’s important to stay up-to-date with any future changes or updates to PMI® exams. PMI® regularly updates its certification exam content to reflect evolving trends and best practices in project management. To stay informed, consider joining PMI’s mailing list, following their social media accounts, attending PMI® events, or subscribing to PMI’s project management journals and online resources.
Additional Study Materials for PMP® Exam Takers
Aside from PMI® resources, there are also other study materials available for PMP® exam takers. These include study guides, practice exams, and online courses offered by various providers. It’s important to choose study materials that are aligned with the latest PMI® exam content outline and that fit your learning style and schedule.
Benefits of Joining a PMP® Exam Study Group
Joining a PMP® exam study group can also be beneficial for exam takers. Study groups provide a supportive environment where members can share their knowledge and experiences, ask questions, and receive feedback. They can also help you stay motivated and accountable in your exam preparation. You can find PMP® exam study groups through PMI® chapters, online forums, or social media groups.
Conclusion
The transition to Pearson VUE as the sole testing provider for PMI® exams marks a significant change for PMI® exam takers. By understanding the changes and preparing accordingly, you can set yourself up for exam success. Take advantage of available resources and stay up-to-date with future changes to ensure that you are always set up for exam success.
It is important to note that the transition to Pearson VUE may also bring about changes in the exam format and content. PMI® has stated that they will continue to update their exams to reflect changes in the industry and best practices. As such, it is crucial for exam takers to stay informed about any changes that may affect their exam preparation.
Additionally, with the shift to Pearson VUE, exam takers may experience changes in the testing environment and procedures. It is recommended that exam takers familiarize themselves with the Pearson VUE testing center policies and procedures to ensure a smooth testing experience. This includes reviewing the testing center rules, arriving early to allow time for check-in, and bringing the necessary identification and materials.
