What is PRINCE2 Certification: Know Exam Pattern, Cost & Fee

What is PRINCE2 Certification?

PRINCE2 (Projects IN Controlled Environments) is a project management methodology that is used worldwide. 

It provides a structured approach to managing projects of any size or complexity, Moreover, it is designed to be adaptable for various types of projects. PRINCE2 certification is issued by AXELOS and is recognised globally.

PRINCE2 benefits many industries including IT, construction, finance, marketing, the public sector, and healthcare. The methodology benefits complex projects with multiple stakeholders and significant risks. 

By using a structured approach to project management, PRINCE2 certification undoubtedly can help an organization to deliver projects on time, within budget, and to a high-quality standard.

PRINCE2 Foundation

PRINCE2 Foundation is the entry-level certification in the PRINCE2 certification programme. So, It is designed to give individuals a basic understanding of the PRINCE2 methodology, including its principles, themes, and processes.

The PRINCE2 Foundation certification course is perfect for the following: 

• Project managers and professionals who manage projects/work in a team. 
• Aspiring project managers looking to develop their project management skills. 
• Professionals in project design, development, and delivery - including project board members, team managers, project assurance, project support, and operational line managers/staff.
• Anyone who is considering a move to project management as a career. 

PRINCE2 Foundation Exam Requirements

For enrolment, proof of previous qualifications is not required, however, you must attend a training course from one of AXELOS’ Accredited Training Organisations (ATOs). 

The course should cover the PRINCE2 methodology, principles, themes, and processes.

Depending on the training provider, PRINCE2 Foundation typically takes two and a half days, with the exam held at the end. You can opt for self-study or distance learning to prepare for the exam.

PRINCE2 Foundation Exam: PRINCE2 Certification Cost

The PRINCE2 Foundation exam cost/fee may vary depending on the location you expect to take the exam, and the accreditation body in charge. 

It is best to check with your PRINCE2 accreditation body or training provider for the specific exam fee.

PRINCE2 Foundation Exam Structure & Content

This certification exam is a closed-book lasting one hour.  It is comprised of 60 multiple-choice questions.

You need to secure a minimum of 55% to pass the exam, i.e., you must get 33 questions correct. 

There are three types of questions: multiple choice, missing word, and list.

Multiple-choice questions will have four potential answers, and you will be asked to select one. Similarly, For  the missing word questions, you will be asked to complete the sentence by filling in the correct missing word. Finally, you will be given a list of four statements with which you will have to select the two correct ones.

PRINCE2 Practitioner

PRINCE2 Practitioner is an advanced-level certification that builds on the knowledge and skills gained from the PRINCE2 Foundation certification.

It is designed for project managers and team members who want to enhance their ability when applying PRINCE2 methodology to real-world projects.

The PRINCE2 Practitioner certification course is perfect for the following: 

• Project managers and project teams working in a PRINCE2 environment. 
• Anyone involved in project management. 
• Professionals in project design, development, and delivery - including programme managers, project executives and board members, project engineers, PMO leaders, change managers, functional managers, product delivery managers, and steering committee members.
• Anyone who wants to advance their career prospects with a project management certification.

PRINCE2 Practitioner Exam Requirements

To sit the PRINCE2 Practitioner exam, you must meet specific requirements. Specifically, you must have previously passed one of the following exams:

• PRINCE2 Foundation 
• Project Management Professional (PMP) 
• Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) 
• IPMA Level A (Certified Projects Director) 
• IPMA Level B (Certified Senior Project Manager) 
• IPMA Level C (Certified Project Manager) 
• IPMA Level D (Certified Project Management Associate) 

Please check out the complete AXELOS terms and conditions regarding the prerequisites.  

PRINCE2 Practitioner Exam: PRINCE2 Certification Cost

The PRINCE2 Practitioner exam cost/fee may vary depending on the location you expect to take the exam, and the accreditation body in charge. 

It is best to check with your PRINCE2 accreditation body or training provider for the specific exam fee.

PRINCE2 Practitioner Exam Structure & Content

The PRINCE2 Practitioner exam is an open-book lasting two and a half hours. It is comprised of 68 multiple-choice questions that evaluate whether a candidate can tailor and implement the PRINCE2 project management methodology.

The candidate needs to secure a minimum of 55% to pass the exam, i.e., you must get 38 questions correct. 

All questions in the exam are in a multiple-choice format. You will be presented with a brief scenario followed by a question, before being asked to select one of the four potential answers provided for questions that carry one mark (A, B, C, D).

For matching, questions that carry three marks and three pieces of information are provided, and you must select an answer for each from a list of five or six options.

PRINCE2 Certification: Foundation vs Practitioner

The Foundation and Practitioner PRINCE2 certifications are two distinct levels of certification.

The Foundation certification is an entry-level qualification. Because, It covers the principles and processes of project management, including planning and controlling projects using PRINCE2. 

It is an ideal qualification for those starting in project management, as it gives a broad overview of the concepts and provides a foundation in project management theory and practice. 

In contrast, the PRINCE2 Practitioner is an advanced certification, recommended for those with experience in PRINCE2. It builds on the knowledge gained from the Foundation course, In addition, it provides more in-depth understanding of the subject. 

It focuses on the practical application of PRINCE2 in the real world, such as managing projects, making decisions, implementing changes, and resolving issues. 

In addition to the above, the PRINCE2 Practitioner also covers risk management, quality assurance, and tailoring PRINCE2 to fit different types of projects. 

Both PRINCE2 certifications need to be renewed after three years in one of the following ways: 

• Retake the same exam before the renewal date  
• Pursue another PeopleCert certification course 
• Collect and log professional development points with PeopleCert through their MyAxelos platform.  

From March 2023 onwards, another renewal path will be available. Click here for further updates. 

To check the certification status, you can visit the  Certificate Verification Service page, insert your certificate number, and complete the image verification.

Quality-Assured PRINCE2 Courses: Training

IPM's  PRINCE2 Foundation course  is designed to provide an understanding of the principles and processes of project management. However, PRINCE2 Practitioner course  builds on the knowledge gained in the Foundation course, and provides a more in-depth understanding of the subject. 

Both courses, contrarily, are delivered by certified trainers with extensive experience in the field. Courses include practical exercises, case studies, and mock tests. 

As an Axelos Accredited Training Organization, IPM - Institute of Project Management provides a course with the most exclusive and up-to-date content, contributing 21.0 PDUs to your Continuous Professional Development record.

In conclusion, IPM Course Adviser is always happy to assist those who want to learn more about the course. You can contact us or schedule a call directly with us.