Is PMP Open Book?

Learning Mudra, Category - PMP


Before we discuss whether PMP is open book; Let's discuss about PMP. The Project Management Professional (PMP) is one of the most valuable Project management certifications. As the certification is globally industry recognized it becomes essential that there are no questions raised on the PMP certification credibility. Talking about the mode of PMP exam, before we were hit by the unprecedented times, like every other exam PMP exam took place in offline mode and also closed book. It means a person had to take a day off and go to the physical center in order to take the exam.

The exam starts with a short 15-minute tutorial which is followed by a survey. However, this time is not counted to total 4 hours, no schedule breaks are allowed during the exam. In order to take breaks, it’s important to note that the break time will be deducted from 4 hours.

However, for the very first time PMI made changes in the way the exam was conducted. As everyone was hit by the COVID-19 pandemic and had hard time in getting use to the new normal, PMI made sure that nothing restrains the aspiring project managers from learning. PMI along with Pearson VUE announced online testing option for Project Management Professional (PMP) examinees on 16 April 2020. To accommodate the candidates PMI offered 24/7 testing schedules, allowing candidates to take exam whenever they prefer irrespective of time of the day. Learning Mudra instructors also took a call of making the PMP training available online for the convenience of the candidates. The PMI is not charging any additional fee in case of rescheduling of exam.

The era of advanced technology

Bringing changes to such rigid system was only possible because of advanced technology, to ensure that there are no mishandlings, the exam will be administered through a live proctor in a secure portal. In order to reschedule the mode of exam, make sure that you are eligible and log in to your PMI account and navigate to ‘review application status’ bar.

Essential things before taking PMP exam online

According to PMI guidelines,

  • Uninterrupted internet connection.
  • Webcam and a microphone.
  • Pen, pencil or paper near are not allowed.
  • Not advised to navigate from exam screen.
  • And lastly a quiet place with no disturbance.

In case of any difficulty or inconvenience, a chat box is provided on the screen where an examinee can communicate. Along with that, there are few tools available as well i.e. an online calculator, and an electronic white board to write notes.

In order to maintain the integrity and credibility of PMP exam, PMI ensured that the risk related with online testing are addressed in a proper manner by implementing few security safeguards:

  • During check in process , make sure that your face matches the photo, AI enhanced identification.
  • The live proctor with AI assistance is allowed to end your exam in case of any misconduct.
  • A program designed to identify and take immediate action in case of any felony or misconduct.

To reschedule exam after being cancelled due to closed testing centers

In case your exam was cancelled due to testing center closures, you can reschedule your exam through Pearson VUE online account. Through Pearson VUE account, you can choose the online proctor testing or center-based training option. However, it is important to note that in case of unavailability of a testing center, you will be still seeing the center-based training option. Understanding the nuances PMI offered to not charge any additional fee.

You can also schedule the exam via Telephone with Pearson VUE, the representative will ask for following details:

  • Name of the examination
  • PMIs ID
  • Testing program
  • You will be asked to verify your first and last name, registered email address, contact number and address.

Interrupted internet connection

In case of having any trouble with your internet connection. Do not worry! The live proctor will try calling you, which is also the only time you are allowed to take call.

For more information on whether PMP is open book; get in touch with us at +91-987-123-7360 or email us at info@learningmudra.com

The flipside of the coin

If you believe that the best way to sit for the exam is to go to a call center then let us tell you everything has its own merits and demerits. The underlying reason behind conducting a close book exam is to make sure that there are no chances of a misconduct. However, the PMP is experienced based exam in particular domain which makes no sense of using any reference material or googling it.

Now that we have discussed, demerits of close book exam it’s essential to know that there is another side to online proctoring test as well. For instance, a person walking into the room or talking unknowingly will be counted as a misconduct, or any interruption with your internet connection or webcam there is a great possibility that live proctor stops you from completing the exam.

Conclusion to the topic : Is PMP Open Book?

To conclude with, we are all getting used to the new normal as we are gradually reopening. Therefore, it is essential to know your options and choose the optimal one. If you have option to visit nearby testing center, one must do that and if you are somebody who is concerned about your health then you can take the test from home too. Yes of course, in the end all that matters is how prepared you are for the exam.

Hope fully, the article was helpful in answering your questions.

The Author : Learning Mudra


Learning Mudra is one of the world’s authoritative providers of online training for Project Management, Data Science, Software Development, Digital Marketing, Cloud Computing, , IT, and many other budding technologies.

Visit Learning Mudra’s Corporate Training page to know more about core trainings for enterprises, enabling the employees in the field of project management.

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