What Happens if I Don’t Pass the PMP on My First Attempt?

Failing the Project Management Professional (PMP) exam on the first try can be a setback, but it’s important to know that it’s not the end of the journey. The PMP exam is notoriously challenging, and many candidates don’t pass on their initial attempt. So, if you didn’t pass initially, don’t worry—you can still succeed on your second attempt.

What to Do Right After Failing the PMP Exam

Once you receive your results, start by identifying where you may have gone wrong. Most testing centers provide a report of your performance.  

This report not only indicates whether you passed or failed but also provides a percentage breakdown of your performance in each of the five process groups: Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring and Controlling, and Closing. This feedback is invaluable as it highlights your strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to focus your study efforts for future attempts.

Here’s what you can do next:

• Request a Detailed Score Report: Some providers offer comprehensive reports that show your performance in each knowledge area. This can be invaluable for pinpointing specific sections that need improvement.
• Review the Exam Content Outline: The Project Management Institute (PMI) provides a detailed content outline covering key areas tested on the exam. Refer to this outline to ensure you’re thoroughly studying all relevant topics.

PMP Exam Retake Policies

If you don’t pass the PMP exam on your first attempt, the PMI (Project Management Institute) allows you to retake the exam. However, there are certain policies and costs involved:

Three Attempts Per Eligibility Period

PMI allows up to three attempts to pass the exam within a one-year eligibility period, which starts when you receive approval to take the test. This means that after your first attempt, you have two more tries within the same year to pass.

Exam Retake Fees

To schedule a retake, you must submit a re-examination form and pay the associated fee. The fees for the second and third attempts are discounted compared to the first attempt:

Computer-Based Test Fees:

1. PMI Members: $275
2. Non-Members: $375

Paper-Based Test Fees:

1. PMI Members: $150
2. Non-Members: $300

These fees apply for each additional attempt, making it wise to assess your readiness before rescheduling. After three unsuccessful attempts, candidates must wait one year from their last test date before reapplying for certification.

Waiting Period Between Attempts

PMI requires a waiting period between attempts. After your first failed attempt, you must wait at least one month before retaking the exam. This gives you a chance to review areas where you struggled and refine your study approach.

Expiration of Eligibility

If you fail the exam three times within your one-year eligibility period, you’ll need to wait a full year from the date of your last attempt before you can reapply to take the PMP exam. Additionally, you’ll need to complete the entire application process again, including resubmitting proof of your project management experience and education.

NOTE: Failing an exam can be discouraging, especially for a high-stakes certification like the PMP. However, it’s essential to maintain a positive mindset and remember that many successful project managers have faced similar setbacks.

 Use this experience as an opportunity to strengthen your project management knowledge and skills. Focus on the long-term benefits of earning your PMP certification, including career advancement, higher earning potential, and increased credibility in the project management field.

How to Prepare for a PMP Retake

To increase your chances of passing the PMP exam on your next attempt, consider these effective strategies:

Analyze Your Score Report: After each attempt, PMI provides a detailed score report highlighting your performance in each of the PMP exam domains. Review this carefully to understand which areas need improvement, whether it’s People, Process, or Business Environment. Focus your study efforts on these weak spots.

Revamp Your Study Plan: If your initial approach didn’t work, re-evaluate your study methods and resources. Consider using additional or alternative study materials such as video lectures, practice exams, or project management simulators. Incorporating more varied resources can help you understand complex concepts from different perspectives.

Consider PMP Prep Courses: Many candidates find that a structured PMP preparation course can make a significant difference. Instructors in these courses often have in-depth experience with the PMP exam and can provide valuable insights, exam strategies, and study tips that improve your understanding and retention of the material.

Join Study Groups or Forums: Engage with other PMP candidates or join a study group. Collaborative learning allows you to exchange tips, share study resources, and clarify doubts. Online forums and study groups are great spaces for connecting with others who can offer motivation and support throughout your preparation.

Take Practice Exams: Practice exams simulate the actual PMP testing environment, allowing you to get comfortable with the exam’s format, time constraints, and question types. They also help you gauge your readiness and identify any remaining areas of weakness.

Focus on Time Management: Time management is crucial for the PMP exam. The exam has 180 questions to be completed within four hours, leaving little room for delay. Practicing time management on mock exams will help you build the pacing needed to complete the actual test confidently.

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