Are you thinking about getting your PMP® (Project Management Professional) certification but not sure if you meet the requirements? You’re not alone! Many people wonder if they’re ready to take the step toward becoming a certified project manager. Don’t worry — we’re here to break it down in a simple and friendly way.
The PMP certification, offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), is one of the most respected credentials in project management. If you're serious about growing in your project management career, PMI PMP might be just the thing for you. But first things first — let's talk about whether you're eligible.
There are two paths to qualify, and which one applies to you depends on your level of education. If you have a four-year degree (like a bachelor’s), you’ll need:
- At least 36 months of project management experience in the past 8 years.
- 35 hours of project management training or a CAPM® certification.
If you don’t have a four-year degree but have a high school diploma or associate's degree, you’ll need:
- 60 months of project management experience in the last 8 years.
- 35 hours of project management training or a CAPM® certification.
The training part can come from a course, workshop, or even an online program — as long as it covers the key aspects of project management.
Not every job with a “project manager” title counts — the experience you list should show that you led or were in charge of parts of a project. That means being part of planning, leading a team, managing tasks, meeting deadlines, and making sure things stayed on track.
One more thing: the experience doesn't have to be from just one job. You can add up months from different roles and companies, as long as the work fits what the PMP application is looking for.
If you're unsure whether your experience counts or how to meet the training requirement, don't be afraid to ask others who've gone through the process. Many PMP-certified professionals are happy to share tips, and there are also online groups that can help.
Getting ready for PMP certification might take some time and planning, but if you meet the requirements, you're already halfway there. Keep learning and stay curious — you're on the right road!