PMP Exam Prep Course FAQs

Eligibility

Are there prerequisites to sit for for the PMP exam?

The PMP® requires a level of experience managing and directing projects. There are also education requirements. View the education and experience prerequisites on our PMP Prerequisites website.

Application Process

What is the PMP application process?

Your journey to becoming PMP-certified begins with the PMP application. You do not have to complete the application before enrolling in UTC's course. However, we encourage students to at least begin the application process before the start of class. UTC is available to help you with any application questions you may have.

The goal of the PMP application is to detail your experience and training to show you have got what it takes to become a PMP professional.

Application Steps:

• Confirm your eligibility. Ensure you meet the experience and education prerequisites. →
• Gather your information. Document your experience and training by gathering information about projects you have led including where you worked, your role and responsibilities, and the duration of your projects. You will also include training you have completed such as institutions attended, courses completed, and qualifying hours.
• Dive into the application. You will need a pmi.org account to kick the process off. Have all the information you gathered in the previous step handy so you can sail through the application. If you need a break in the middle of the application, do not worry! You can save the application as you go.

Your application will be reviewed by PMI upon submission.

Does UTC offer application assistance?

Yes! UTC is available to help you with any application questions you may have. If you are interested in taking advantage of application assistance, please email UTC's PMP Program Coordinator at [email protected]. She would be happy to guide you through the process.

Registration

Is enrollment into UTC required?

No.

How do I enroll?

You can register on our website or by calling 423-425-4344.

How do I advocate for course enrollment to my employer?

Many PMP Exam Prep Course students ask their employers to fund their professional development, positioning the training as having exponential ROI for both the participant and organization.

Use our employer funding request template to start the conversation with your employer. The letter highlights the benefits organizations may reap through your training.

Download the Template →

Cost

How much does the program cost?

$1,795

Discounts are available for Chattanooga PMI Members and UTC Alumni. Learn more about discounts and other financial aid options here →.

Is financial aid available?

Yes! Choose from the following options:

Sallie Mae Loan: The Sallie Mae Loan is a short-term, low-interest student loan. The online application only takes 15 minutes to determine approval. If needed, you may have a cosigner. Learn more about Sallie Mae Loans → 

Employer Payment Options: Employers may choose to pay for an employee's course on our registration site using a credit card. Or, employees can select the invoice option when checking out, and their employer can then pay for the course by check. We also accept employer education vouchers if the employer chooses to submit one. Learn more about Employer Payment Options → 

Alumni Discount: UTC alumni qualify for a 10% discount on the CPIM Exam Prep Course. For details, please contact 423-425-4344 or [email protected]. Learn more about the Alumni Discount → 

How do I submit an invoice for my employer to pay for the program?

When registering for the course, select the invoice option at checkout. UTC will create an invoice to send to your employer. Then, your employer can pay for the course by check.

Format

What is the course format?

The course will be live-online with set meeting times each week. Group prep allows for collaboration and interaction among participants. This leads to a more dynamic learning environment where individuals can share ideas and discuss concepts. Additionally, group prep often consists of individuals with diverse perspectives that can enrich the learning experience as participants are exposed to different ways of thinking and problem-solving.

See the Full Course Schedule →

What is the course duration?

The course is seven weeks long.

What is the total course time commitment?

Each week, students spend a total of five hours in class. Additionally, students may spend ~4 hours weekly reviewing materials outside of class. This will vary from student to student but is an average estimated time.

Materials

What materials are included in the course?

• "The PMP Exam: How to Pass on Your First Try" by Andy Crowe
• A course workbook
• Access to the online learning system. Additionally, students have access to the system for 90 days after the course ends.
• Quick reference guide based on the PMBOK

How do I receive materials?

Your physical course textbooks and materials will be shipped to you 1 week prior to the beginning of class. You will also receive an online link 1 week before the course begins with access to the virtual materials, along with the Zoom link to log in to class each week.

Attendance

What are the attendance requirements?

Students are expected to maintain an 80% attendance rate. If you miss a combined six unexcused or excused absences, you are removed from the course without a refund. Extenuating circumstances will be evaluated.  

Post-Course

What will I receive upon completion of the program?

Participants will receive a certificate of completion based on maintaining attendance requirements. The course also qualifies for 3.5 CEUs.

How soon after the course should I sit for the exam?

30-90 days is the recommended time per the course instructor.

Where do I take the exam?

Exams are hosted at Prometric Testing Centers. Choose from one of many Prometric Testing Centers for your exam based on your location. You also have the option to take your exam online.

How do I maintain certification?

PMP-certified individuals must earn 60 PDUs every three years. PMI has created a Continuing Certification Requirements (CCR) program to help you earn PDUS and maintain your certification status. You spend one-hour blocks of time learning, teaching others or volunteering. Learn more about PDUs and the PMP certification renewal process on PMI's website.