PHR Exam Prep & Study Guide

Ready to level up your career in human resources? Earning your PHR certification could be the game changer you’re looking for. The PHR Exam Prep & Study Guide is your trusted companion on this journey, helping you navigate the exam with confidence and ease.

The PHR certification isn’t just a fancy title – it’s a sign that you’re equipped with the essential knowledge and skills to excel in HR management. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the field, having the right HRCI PHR certification study guide is crucial to mastering the exam’s content.

In this guide, we’ll break down the PHR exam into bite-sized pieces, highlight the key areas you’ll need to know, and explain why a detailed HR certification exam guide is your best tool for success. With the PHR Exam Prep & Study Guide, you’ll be well on your way to acing the exam and unlocking new opportunities in your HR career!

PHR Exam Certification Requirements

Before diving into your PHR Exam Prep & Study Guide, it’s essential to understand if you’re eligible for the PHR certification. The Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI), which administers the PHR exam, has specific requirements based on your education and experience in the HR field.

To be eligible for the PHR certification, you’ll need:

• A minimum of one year of experience in a professional-level HR position with a Master’s degree or higher.
• A minimum of two years of experience in a professional-level HR position with a Bachelor’s degree.
• A minimum of four years of experience in a professional-level HR position with a high school diploma or equivalent.

The HRCI evaluates your experience based on whether you’ve worked in a position where HR was your primary function or where you spent at least 51% of your time on HR activities. 

Understanding these PHR certification requirements is the first step in your PHR certification journey.

PHR Exam Format and Structure

The PHR exam is designed to test your knowledge and competency in various HR disciplines. Understanding the exam’s format will help you structure your PHR study plan more effectively.

The PHR exam consists of 115 questions, including 90 scored questions and 25 pretest questions that are not scored. You’ll have two hours to complete the exam, with an additional 30 minutes for administrative tasks.

The exam covers several functional areas, including:

• Business Management: This section tests your understanding of HR’s role in business operations, including metrics, organizational development, and corporate social responsibility.
• Employee and Labor Relations: This area addresses workplace policies, employee relations, and legal compliance.
• Learning and Development: This section covers employee training, development programs, and performance management.
• Total Rewards: Here, you’ll be tested on compensation, benefits, and recognition programs.
• Workforce Planning and Talent Acquisition: This area focuses on workforce planning, recruiting, and hiring processes.

The PHR exam is known for its moderate to high PHR exam difficulty level. The questions often require you to apply your knowledge to real-world scenarios rather than simply recalling facts. This makes thorough preparation essential for success. 

Utilizing resources like a PHR exam prep & study guide can help you prepare effectively.

Best PHR Exam Resources for Study

The best way to study for the PHR exam is by using a combination of trusted study guides, practice exams, and review courses. These resources help ensure you’re fully prepared by focusing on the core topics and providing a comprehensive understanding of the material.

Recommended PHR Study Materials:

Study Guides

Comprehensive PHR study guides provide structured content that covers all exam topics. The best PHR study guides include practice questions and explain the reasoning behind answers.

Practice Exams

Free PHR practice exams with answers are invaluable for testing your knowledge and identifying areas where you need additional study. These practice tests help you get comfortable with the exam format and timing.

Online Resources

Many websites offer free PHR study guide PDFs and other materials to supplement your primary resources.

Prepsaret PHR Prep Course

Among the online options, Prepsaret stands out because it offers comprehensive study notes and, most importantly, practice questions that closely reflect the actual questions tested in the exam. These materials are regularly updated to ensure they align with the current exam content.

When selecting your study materials, ensure they’re current with the latest exam updates and cover all functional areas proportionate to their weight on the exam.

Creating a PHR Study Plan

A well-structured study plan is essential for PHR exam success, especially if you’re balancing preparation with full-time work. Here’s how to create an effective PHR certification study plan for beginners:

Step 1: Assess Your Knowledge

Start by taking a practice test to identify your strengths and weaknesses. This will help you allocate more study time to areas where you need improvement.

Step 2: Set a Timeline

Most successful candidates spend two to four months studying for the PHR exam. Consider your work schedule, family commitments, and learning style when determining your timeline.

Step 3: Create a Weekly Schedule

Divide your study material according to the exam’s functional areas. Plan to spend more time on Employee and Labor Relations since it accounts for 39% of the exam content.

A typical weekly schedule might include:

• Monday-Thursday: 1-2 hours of studying after work
• Saturday-Sunday: 3-4 hours of more intensive study
• Regular breaks and review sessions

Step 4: Use Various Study Methods

Mix different study methods to enhance retention:

• Reading study guides
• Watching video lectures
• Taking practice quizzes
• Using flashcards for key terms
• Participating in study groups

For those just getting started, utilizing a PHR exam prep & study guide PDF can provide a convenient and portable resource. 

Many websites offer a PHR exam prep & study guide PDF free of charge, which can be a good starting point before investing in more comprehensive materials.

Remember to adjust your plan as needed based on your progress and comfort level with different topics.

Online PHR Prep Course Options

Online prep courses have become increasingly popular for PHR exam preparation, offering flexibility and structured learning experiences. These courses can be particularly beneficial for self-directed learners who need some guidance.

Top Online PHR Prep Courses:

Prepsaret PHR Prep Course

Prepsaret PHR Prep Course is considered one of the best options because it offers comprehensive study notes and practice questions that closely mirror the actual exam content. The materials are regularly updated to reflect changes in the exam, giving you confidence that you’re studying relevant information.

HRCI’s Official PHR Test Prep

Developed by the same organization that administers the exam, this course provides authoritative content.

Pocket Prep PHR: This mobile app allows you to study on the go with practice questions and explanations.

PHR Test Prep Online Platforms

Various online platforms offer video lectures, interactive exercises, and community forums where you can connect with other HR professionals preparing for the exam.

When selecting an online course, consider factors such as:

• Course content and comprehensiveness
• Quality and quantity of practice questions
• Access period and format (self-paced vs. instructor-led)
• Cost and value for money
• User reviews and success rates

Online courses often provide structured learning paths that can be especially helpful if you’re new to HR certification or prefer guided instruction over self-study.

PHR Practice Tests and Exam Simulation

Practice tests are one of the most effective tools for PHR exam preparation. They help familiarize you with the exam format, improve your time management, and identify knowledge gaps.

Benefits of PHR Practice Tests:

• Assess Knowledge: Practice tests help you evaluate your understanding of different functional areas.
• Build Stamina: The PHR exam is lengthy; practice tests help build the mental endurance needed for the actual exam.
• Reduce Anxiety: Familiarity with the exam format and question types can significantly reduce test anxiety.
• Improve Time Management: Practice tests help you gauge how much time to allocate to each question.

Finding Quality Practice Tests:

• Free PHR Practice Exam with Answers: Look for reputable websites that offer free practice questions with detailed explanations.
• PHR Exam Practice Questions Banks: Comprehensive question banks with hundreds or thousands of questions can provide varied practice scenarios.
• Timed Practice Exams: Take full-length, timed practice exams to simulate the actual testing experience.

Try out a PHR Practice Test FREE

After completing practice tests, thoroughly review your incorrect answers and the explanations provided. 

This review process is often where the most learning occurs. Track your progress over time to ensure you’re improving in all functional areas.

PHR Exam Tips and Strategies for Success

Beyond studying the content, developing effective test-taking strategies can significantly impact your performance on the PHR exam.

Before the Exam:

• Review, Don’t Cram: In the days leading up to the exam, focus on reviewing key concepts rather than trying to learn new material.
• Manage Stress: Maintain healthy sleep habits, exercise regularly, and practice relaxation techniques to manage exam anxiety.
• Prepare Logistically: Ensure you know the testing center location, required identification, and any other test day requirements.

During the Exam:

• Read Carefully: Pay close attention to keywords in questions such as “most,” “least,” “best,” and “except.”
• Manage Your Time: Pace yourself to ensure you have enough time for all questions. If you’re stuck on a difficult question, mark it and return later.
• Use Process of Elimination: For challenging questions, eliminate obviously incorrect answers to improve your odds of selecting the correct response.
• Answer Every Question: There’s no penalty for wrong answers on the PHR exam, so make an educated guess if you’re unsure.

The current PHR exam pass rate is approximately 55%, which underscores the importance of thorough preparation. 

By using quality study materials like a comprehensive PHR exam preparation book and implementing effective test-taking strategies, you can significantly improve your chances of success.

PHR vs. SPHR Certification

Many HR professionals wonder whether they should pursue the PHR or the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification. Understanding the differences can help you make the right choice for your career stage and goals.

Key Differences:

• Experience Requirements: The SPHR requires more HR experience (typically 4-7 years in a professional position) compared to the PHR.
• Exam Content: While both exams cover similar functional areas, the SPHR places greater emphasis on strategic and policy-making aspects of HR, while the PHR focuses more on operational and technical aspects.
• Career Stage: The PHR is generally more appropriate for early to mid-career HR professionals, while the SPHR is designed for senior HR leaders and those in strategic roles.
• Salary Impact: Both certifications can positively impact earning potential, though SPHR holders typically command higher salaries due to their advanced experience and knowledge.

If you’re relatively new to HR or focus primarily on HR operations, the PHR is likely the more appropriate certification. 

As you advance in your career and take on more strategic responsibilities, you might consider pursuing the SPHR.

Find Out More: SPHR vs PHR

PHR Exam Cost and Fees

Understanding the financial investment required for PHR certification can help you plan accordingly and look for potential savings opportunities. The PHR exam cost and fees include:

• Application Fee: $100
• Exam Fee: $395, regardless of whether you are an HRCI member or not.

Additional Costs to Consider

In addition to the exam fees, you should also consider the costs of study materials and preparation courses:

• Study Materials: These can range from $100 to $500, depending on the type and quality of materials.
• Online Prep Courses: Prices for these courses vary widely, typically between $500 and $1,500.

For a more affordable yet effective option with a guaranteed pass, consider enrolling in the Prepsaret PHR Prep course, starting at just $69. Here are the available plans:

• 1 Month Study Plan: $69
• 2 Month Study Plan: $119
• 3 Month Study Plan: $159

These flexible options give you access to high-quality study materials without breaking the bank, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the PHR exam.

Recertification Fees

After obtaining your certification, you will need to recertify every three years. The recertification fees are approximately $169 for HRCI members.

Employer Reimbursement and Discounts

Some employers offer reimbursement for certification costs as part of professional development programs. 

Additionally, the HRCI occasionally offers discounts or promotions, particularly for early registration. These opportunities can help reduce the overall financial burden of pursuing PHR certification.

Major HR Credentialing Exams

Achieving HR professional certification is a vital milestone for those seeking to advance their careers in human resources. However, passing these exams requires more than experience—it demands effective Human Resources certification prep.

Focusing on HR professional certification not only enhances your knowledge but also boosts your credibility in the HR field. It demonstrates your commitment to the profession and can open doors to more advanced positions. 

With the right preparation and dedication, you can pass your HR credentialing exams and take the next step in your HR career.

Key HR credentialing exams to consider include:

• SHRM-CP (Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional)
• PHR (Professional in Human Resources)
• aPHRi (Associate Professional in Human Resources – International)
• PHRi (Professional in Human Resources – International)
• SPHRi (Senior Professional in Human Resources – International)
• GPHR (Global Professional in Human Resources)
• HRIP (Human Resources Information Program)

FAQs

Conclusion: Tips on How to Study for the PHR Exam

Preparing for and passing the PHR exam requires dedication, strategic planning, and the right resources. Here are some final tips to help you succeed:

• Start Early: Give yourself ample time to study all content areas thoroughly without rushing.
• Be Consistent: Regular, shorter study sessions are often more effective than occasional marathon sessions.
• Use Quality Materials: Invest in reputable PHR exam study materials, including a comprehensive PHR certification prep course and PHR exam study guide.
• Practice Regularly: Take multiple practice exams to build confidence and identify areas for improvement.
• Join Study Groups: Connect with other HR professionals preparing for the exam to share insights and motivation.
• Apply Concepts: Don’t just memorize; understand how HR concepts apply in real-world scenarios.
• Take Care of Yourself: Maintain good physical and mental health throughout your preparation process.

Remember that the PHR certification is not just about passing an exam; it’s about developing knowledge and skills that will enhance your effectiveness as an HR professional. 

Approach your preparation with this broader perspective, and you’ll not only increase your chances of passing but also derive greater value from the certification process.