PMI SP Application Process

The PMI SP Application Process is an important step for project management professionals looking to enhance their career prospects and validate their skills in scheduling. The certification indicates that project managers possess the skillset to establish and manage project schedules, a crucial element for effectively overseeing projects. 

However, the application process for PMI-SP certification can be complex and overwhelming, particularly for those who are new to the certification process. In this blog, we will give you a step-by-step guide to the PMI SP Application Process, including eligibility criteria, required documentation, and tips for exam preparation. 

Table of Contents 

1) Eligibility criteria for PMI SP Application Process 

2) Steps in PMI SP Application Process 

3) PMI SP exam preparation 

4) Conclusion 

5) Additional resources 

Eligibility criteria for PMI SP Application Process 

To be eligible for the PMI-SP certification, candidates must meet the following requirements: 

1) Education: Candidates must have a secondary degree (high school diploma, associate's degree or the global equivalent) and have completed 5,000 hours of project scheduling experience within the last five years.

OR

Candidates must have a four-year degree (bachelor's degree or the global equivalent) and have completed 3,500 hours of project scheduling experience within the last five years. 

2) Project scheduling experience: Candidates must have experience in project scheduling, including creating and maintaining project schedules, developing and analyzing project schedule data, communicating project schedule information, and monitoring and controlling project schedules. 

3) Training: Candidates must have completed 40 hours of project scheduling education, which may include formal training, workshops, or online courses. 

4) Exam: Candidates must pass the PMI-SP certification exam, which tests knowledge and skill in creating and maintaining project schedules. 

It is important to note that candidates must meet all eligibility requirements before submitting their application for the PMI-SP certification. Once approved, candidates have one year to pass the exam and earn their certification. If a candidate doesn’t pass the exam within one year, they must reapply and meet the eligibility requirements again.
 

Steps in PMI SP Application Process
 

The application process for PMI-SP certification includes the following steps: 

1) Determine eligibility: Before applying, candidates should review the eligibility requirements and ensure that they meet all criteria. 

2) Create a PMI account: Candidates who do not already have a PMI account must create one in order to apply for the certification. 

3) Complete the application: The application includes a detailed questionnaire about the candidate's education, experience, and training in project scheduling. Candidates must also provide information about their contact information, professional experience, and education. 

4) Submit the application: Once the application is complete, candidates must submit it to PMI for review. PMI will review the application within 5-10 business days to ensure that all information is complete and accurate. 

5) Pay the certification fee: Once the application is approved, candidates must pay the PMI-SP certification fee. The fee varies depending on whether the candidate is a PMI member or non-member. 

6) Schedule the exam: After the certification fee is paid, candidates can schedule their PMI-SP certification exam. The exam is administered at Prometric testing centres worldwide and can be scheduled online or by phone. 

7) Prepare for the exam: Candidates should spend time preparing for the exam using study materials and resources provided by PMI, including the PMI-SP Exam Content Outline and PMI-SP Study Guide. 

8) Take the exam: To take the exam, candidates should ensure they arrive at the testing centre ahead of schedule and carry a valid form of identification. The exam duration is four hours, and it comprises 170 multiple-choice questions. 

9) Receive certification: Candidates who pass the exam will receive their PMI-SP certification within a few weeks. The certification is valid for three years and can be renewed by earning and reporting 30 Professional Development Units (PDUs) in project scheduling education every three years.

Register for our PMI-SP training and accelerate your project scheduling career! 

PMI SP exam preparation
 

Preparing for the PMI-SP certification exam is crucial to passing on the first try. Here are some tips for exam preparation: 

1) Review the exam content outline: The PMI-SP Exam Content Outline provides a detailed breakdown of the topics covered on the exam. Candidates should review the outline and ensure that they have a solid understanding of all concepts. 

2) Study the PMI-SP Study Guide: PMI provides a study guide that covers all topics tested on the exam. Candidates should use this guide to review key concepts and practice exam-style questions. 

3) Take practice exams: PMI offers practice exams that simulate the real exam experience. Candidates should take practice exams to familiarize themselves with the types of questions asked and the format of the exam. 

4) Participate in a study group: Joining a study group can help candidates stay motivated and focused on exam preparation. Study groups can also provide opportunities to discuss concepts with others and learn from their experiences. 

5) Attend a training course: Attending a PMI-approved training course can help candidates solidify their understanding of project scheduling concepts and prepare for the exam. 

6) Manage time effectively: The PMI-SP certification exam comprises 170 multiple-choice questions and has a duration of four hours. Candidates should practice time management techniques during exam preparation to ensure they have enough time to answer all questions on the actual exam. 

Conclusion 

The PMI SP Application Process can be challenging, but it is a worthwhile investment for project management professionals. By following eligibility criteria, completing the application, paying the certification fee, scheduling and preparing for the exam, and earning the certification, candidates can demonstrate their expertise in project scheduling and enhance career prospects. 

Boost your project management career with our PMP training courses! 

Additional resources