Key Takeaways
- The PMP exam contains 180 questions to be completed in 230 minutes (3 hours and 50 minutes), with 175 scored questions and 5 unscored pretest questions
- The exam covers three domains: People (42%), Process (50%), and Business Environment (8%) through June 2026
- Eligibility requires 35 contact hours of project management education plus either 36 months of project experience with a 4-year degree or 60 months without
- PMI uses psychometric analysis to determine passing scores rather than a fixed percentage, with performance evaluated across all domains
- Starting July 1, 2026, the exam updates to 185 questions, 240 minutes, and new domain weightings aligned with PMBOK 8
About the PMP Exam
The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is the world's most recognized project management credential. Administered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), the PMP validates your competence to perform in the role of a project manager, leading and directing projects and teams.
Exam Format Overview
The PMP exam is a computer-based test that challenges your understanding of project management principles, methodologies, and real-world application.
| Feature | Current Format (Through June 2026) | New Format (July 2026+) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Questions | 180 | 185 |
| Scored Questions | 175 | TBD |
| Time Allowed | 230 minutes (3 hrs 50 min) | 240 minutes (4 hours) |
| Breaks | Two 10-minute breaks | Two 10-minute breaks |
| Testing Options | Test center or online proctored | Test center or online proctored |
Question Types
The PMP exam includes five different question formats designed to test various levels of understanding:
| Question Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Multiple Choice | Select one correct answer from four options |
| Multiple Response | Select two or more correct answers from a list |
| Matching | Match items from two columns (e.g., terms to definitions) |
| Hotspot | Click on the correct area of an image or diagram |
| Fill-in-the-Blank | Limited use; complete a statement with the correct term |
Scenario-Based Questions
Most PMP questions are scenario-based, presenting realistic project situations. You'll need to analyze the context and determine the best course of action, not just a correct one. The 2026 exam will expand these to include practicum questions with tools, data, and case studies.
Domain Weightings
The exam content is organized into three domains based on PMI's Exam Content Outline (ECO):
Current Domains (Through June 2026)
| Domain | Weight | Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
| People | 42% | Team management, leadership, conflict resolution, stakeholder engagement |
| Process | 50% | Planning, execution, monitoring, closing, integration |
| Business Environment | 8% | Strategic alignment, benefits realization, compliance |
Updated Domains (Starting July 2026)
| Domain | Weight | Change |
|---|---|---|
| People | 33% | Decreased from 42% |
| Process | 41% | Decreased from 50% |
| Business Environment | 26% | Increased significantly from 8% |
The 2026 update also shifts the methodology balance: 40% predictive/waterfall and 60% agile/hybrid approaches.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the PMP exam, you must meet educational and experience requirements:
Path 1: With Four-Year Degree
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor's degree or global equivalent |
| Project Experience | 36 months leading and directing projects |
| PM Education | 35 contact hours of formal PM training |
Path 2: Without Four-Year Degree
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | High school diploma, associate's degree, or equivalent |
| Project Experience | 60 months leading and directing projects |
| PM Education | 35 contact hours of formal PM training |
Path 3: GAC-Accredited Program Graduates
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor's or graduate degree from GAC-accredited program |
| Project Experience | 24 months leading and directing projects |
| PM Education | 35 contact hours (waived if CAPM holder) |
Experience Guidelines
- Experience must be non-overlapping (can't count same months twice)
- Experience must be from the last 8 years
- Volunteer and non-profit work counts if it involves PM responsibilities
- You do not need the title "Project Manager" — documented PM experience is what matters
Passing Score
PMI does not publish a fixed passing score. Instead, they use psychometric analysis to evaluate performance:
- Each scored question is worth one point
- Subject matter experts determine the minimum passing threshold
- Your performance is rated across all three domains
- Results are reported as Above Target, Target, Below Target, or Needs Improvement
While PMI doesn't disclose exact requirements, training providers estimate aiming for 70% or higher on practice exams to prepare adequately.
Exam Fees and Retake Policy
| Fee Type | PMI Member | Non-Member |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Exam | $405 USD | $655 USD |
| Retake Fee | $275 USD | $375 USD |
| PMI Membership | $139/year | — |
Retake Policy
- You can retake the exam up to three times within a one-year eligibility period
- You must wait at least 30 days between attempts
- After three failures, you must wait one full year before reapplying
Certification Maintenance
Once certified, you must maintain your credential through continuing education:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Cycle Length | 3 years |
| PDUs Required | 60 Professional Development Units |
| PMI Talent Triangle | Minimum PDUs across Ways of Working, Power Skills, and Business Acumen |
| Renewal Fee | $60 (members) / $150 (non-members) |
Key Takeaways
- The PMP exam tests your ability to apply project management knowledge in realistic scenarios
- Three domains cover People, Process, and Business Environment aspects of project management
- Eligibility combines education, documented PM experience, and formal training hours
- PMI uses a scaled scoring model rather than a fixed percentage pass rate
- Major exam updates take effect July 1, 2026, aligning with PMBOK 8th Edition
How many questions are on the current PMP exam, and how many are scored?
Which domain currently carries the highest weight on the PMP exam?
An applicant with a bachelor's degree needs how many months of project management experience to qualify for the PMP exam?