PMI-ACP Certification: A Detailed Walkthrough of the Application Process – Testkings

The PMI-ACP (PMI Agile Certified Practitioner) certification is one of the most sought-after credentials for professionals working in agile project management environments. The certification is offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), a globally recognized organization for project management professionals. It is designed for individuals who want to demonstrate their expertise in agile methodologies, which are widely used in modern project management to ensure flexibility, rapid delivery, and a high level of collaboration.

Agile project management focuses on iterative development, where projects are broken down into smaller, manageable tasks that can be completed in shorter timeframes, known as sprints. This methodology allows teams to adapt quickly to changes and deliver value to stakeholders continuously. With the growing popularity of agile across various industries—including software development, marketing, and healthcare—the PMI-ACP certification has become an essential credential for professionals looking to enhance their careers in agile project management.

The PMI-ACP certification helps to establish that a candidate has the knowledge, skills, and experience to manage projects using agile methodologies effectively. It recognizes your ability to implement agile practices and tools, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and make decisions that maximize efficiency and value in fast-paced project environments.

Before applying for the PMI-ACP exam, it is essential to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements. PMI has set specific criteria to make sure that only those with the right experience and knowledge are qualified to sit for the exam. These eligibility requirements include both practical project experience and formal education in agile practices, which help to ensure that candidates can apply agile principles in real-world scenarios.

The first eligibility criterion for the PMI-ACP certification is a minimum of 2,000 hours (about one year) of general project experience. This experience must have been completed in the last five years, and it must demonstrate your ability to manage projects from start to finish. In addition to this general project experience, PMI requires candidates to have a minimum of 1,500 hours (approximately 8 months) of experience working on agile projects specifically. This ensures that applicants have hands-on experience with agile methodologies and are familiar with the concepts and practices that define agile project management.

In addition to project experience, PMI requires candidates to have completed at least 21 contact hours of agile training. These hours must include coursework or training in agile methods, such as Scrum, Kanban, Lean, or Extreme Programming (XP). The training ensures that candidates have formal knowledge of agile principles and are capable of implementing them in various project scenarios. PMI-ACP training is typically offered by accredited training providers, who offer courses in both in-person and online formats.

Once you meet the eligibility requirements, you can begin the process of applying for the PMI-ACP exam. The next steps involve completing the application form, documenting your project experience and training, and submitting the necessary information to PMI for approval. This section of the process is crucial because PMI will evaluate your application to ensure that it aligns with their criteria before granting you permission to take the exam.

The PMI-ACP certification not only validates your agile project management expertise but also opens doors to new career opportunities. Agile methodologies are increasingly being adopted across industries because of their ability to deliver faster results, reduce waste, and improve collaboration. By earning the PMI-ACP certification, you demonstrate your commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest project management trends and your ability to adapt to the evolving needs of today’s fast-paced business world.

The PMI-ACP Application Process and Required Information

Once you’ve confirmed that you meet the eligibility requirements for the PMI-ACP certification, the next step is to complete the application process. The PMI-ACP application is an essential part of the certification journey, as it enables PMI to verify your experience, training, and qualifications before you can sit for the exam. The application can be submitted online through the PMI website, and there is also the option to print a PDF version. However, applying online is the most efficient method, as it allows for faster processing and submission.

Creating a PMI Account

The first step in the application process is to create an account on the PMI website if you haven’t done so already. This account will be your central hub for managing your application, submitting your documents, and tracking your progress. Once you’ve created your account, you can access the PMI-ACP application form and begin filling it out. Make sure that the email address you provide is correct, as this will be the primary communication method PMI will use to send you updates about your application and the next steps in the process.

Personal Information

The application form starts with a section requesting personal information, including your name, address, and contact details. This is basic information that helps PMI verify your identity and ensures they can reach you if needed. It’s essential to double-check this information for accuracy to avoid any communication issues later in the process.

Once you’ve entered your basic details, you will be asked if you would like to become a member of PMI. While membership is optional, it offers several benefits, including discounts on the PMI-ACP exam fee. The cost of PMI membership is $139 annually, but by becoming a member, you can save $60 on the exam fee, reducing the overall cost. For non-members, the standard exam fee is $495, while PMI members only pay $435. Additionally, PMI members receive access to a wealth of resources, such as webinars, research articles, and professional development tools, which can be valuable as you prepare for the exam.

Documenting Your Agile Project Experience

One of the most critical parts of the PMI-ACP application is documenting your agile project experience. PMI requires you to have a minimum of 2,000 hours of general project experience and 1,500 hours of specific agile project experience. This agile experience must be spread across the past five years to ensure that your skills are up-to-date.

The application will ask you to provide detailed information about the agile projects you have worked on. You will need to list the project names, describe your role, and outline the tasks and responsibilities you handled during the project. Specifically, you must demonstrate that your experience aligns with the seven domains of agile practices that PMI covers. These domains include:

Agile standards and attitudes (16%)
Respect-based realization (20%)
Partner participation (17%)
Team execution (16%)
Multitasking (12%)
Problem detection and resolution (10%)
Continuous improvement (9%)

Each domain represents a critical aspect of agile project management, and PMI expects you to document how your experience aligns with these areas. You will be asked to allocate a percentage of your time across these domains, showing where your efforts were most focused. PMI looks for a balanced exposure to all areas, but it is understood that each individual may have different levels of involvement in each domain depending on the specific agile projects they’ve worked on.

You will also be asked to provide the names and contact details of a project sponsor or manager who can confirm your agile project experience. It’s important to make sure that these individuals are willing to verify your participation in the projects you list. PMI may contact them to validate your experience, so transparency is key to a smooth process.

Documenting Your Agile Training

Another requirement for the PMI-ACP certification is at least 21 hours of formal agile training. This ensures that you have received structured education in agile methodologies and are not just relying on practical experience. The training can cover various agile methodologies, including Scrum, Kanban, Lean, and Extreme Programming (XP). Many PMI-approved training providers offer these courses, both online and in person.

In the application, you will need to list the training programs you’ve completed, including the course name, provider, dates of completion, and the number of hours you participated. It’s important to ensure that the training you list is directly relevant to agile practices and is PMI-recognized. If you haven’t completed the required 21 hours of training yet, there are numerous ways to meet this requirement, including taking courses offered by PMI-approved providers or participating in agile workshops and seminars.

Once you’ve listed all your agile training, the PMI-ACP application will prompt you to provide evidence of the training. This could include certificates of completion or transcripts from the training provider. Be sure to keep a record of your training certificates and any documentation of the courses you’ve taken, as PMI may request these documents during the application review process.

Application Review Process

Once you’ve completed the application, including all sections on personal information, agile project experience, and agile training, you can submit it for review. PMI typically processes applications within 3-5 business days. During this period, PMI will verify the information provided and ensure that it meets the certification requirements. If everything is in order, you will receive an email notification confirming your eligibility and a payment request for the exam.

If PMI finds any discrepancies or requires additional information, they may contact you to clarify or verify details before proceeding with your application. It is important to provide accurate and complete information from the outset to avoid delays or complications in the approval process.

After Application Approval

Once your application is approved, PMI will send you a payment request. At this stage, you will need to pay the exam fee, which, as previously mentioned, is $495 for non-members and $435 for PMI members. Payment can be made online via credit card, and PMI will provide you with instructions on how to proceed with scheduling the exam.

After the payment is processed, you will be given access to schedule your exam through Pearson VUE, the official PMI testing partner. The exam is computer-based, and you can choose from a wide range of locations and times. The PMI-ACP exam is offered at Pearson VUE test centers globally, and you will have a year to take the exam once your application is approved.

During the one-year qualification period, you can take the exam up to three times if needed. This gives you the opportunity to retake the exam in case you do not pass on your first attempt. You will need to wait at least 60 days between attempts, but having three attempts gives you multiple chances to succeed.

Completing the PMI-ACP application is a key step in achieving your agile certification. It requires a thorough understanding of agile practices, a record of relevant project experience, and completion of the necessary training hours. By carefully following the steps outlined in the application process and providing accurate information, you set yourself up for success in obtaining the PMI-ACP certification. Once your application is approved and payment is made, you can schedule your exam and begin preparing for the final step in earning your PMI-ACP credential.

The Payment Process and Scheduling the PMI-ACP Exam

Once your PMI-ACP application has been approved by the Project Management Institute (PMI), the next step in the certification journey is to make payment for the exam and schedule your testing session. This part of the process is essential to move forward with your certification and get one step closer to achieving the PMI-ACP credential. In this section, we will walk through the details of the payment process, what happens after your payment is processed, and how you can schedule your exam.

Paying the Exam Fee

After PMI reviews and approves your application, you will receive an email notification from PMI informing you that your application has been accepted and is ready for payment. The email will provide a link to the PMI website where you can complete the payment process. It is important to ensure that your payment is completed promptly to avoid any delays in scheduling your exam.

The PMI-ACP exam fee is based on whether or not you are a PMI member. As a PMI member, you qualify for a discounted rate, making membership a cost-effective option if you plan on taking the PMI-ACP exam. The fees are as follows:

For PMI members: The exam fee is US$435.
For non-members: The exam fee is US$495.

The PMI membership fee is US$139 annually. While this is an additional cost, membership provides you with several benefits that can help reduce your overall exam cost, including the exam fee discount, access to PMI’s extensive library of resources, and opportunities to network with other project management professionals. Additionally, membership grants you discounts on training and educational resources that could help you prepare for the exam.

If you haven’t yet decided whether to become a member, now is the time to consider it, especially if you’re looking to save on the exam fee and gain access to PMI’s wide array of member benefits. The savings you get on the exam fee alone—US$60—often justify the cost of membership, especially if you’re committed to advancing your career in project management and agile practices.

Once you decide whether to pay as a member or non-member, proceed to the payment section on the PMI website. You can pay the exam fee using major credit cards, and PMI will process your payment promptly. After successfully completing the payment, you will receive an email confirming your transaction and outlining the next steps in scheduling your exam.

Scheduling the PMI-ACP Exam with Pearson VUE

After your payment has been processed, you will receive additional instructions from PMI regarding how to schedule your PMI-ACP exam. PMI partners with Pearson VUE, a global leader in computer-based testing, to provide a secure and standardized testing experience for PMI certification exams. Pearson VUE operates test centers around the world, giving you flexibility in choosing a convenient location and time for your exam.

To schedule your exam, follow these steps:

Log in to Your PMI Account: Once your payment is confirmed, log in to your PMI account and access the exam scheduling portal. You will find the link to schedule your exam under the “Exam” section of your account dashboard.
Select a Testing Location: Choose a Pearson VUE test center that is convenient for you. You can search for test centers by city, state, or country, and you will be able to see available locations in your region. Pearson VUE operates test centers in many countries, so there should be a convenient location for you, regardless of where you live.
Choose a Date and Time: After selecting your preferred test center, you will be prompted to choose an available date and time for your exam. Keep in mind that PMI-ACP exam appointments are subject to availability, so it’s a good idea to schedule your exam as soon as possible to secure your preferred time slot. You have up to one year from the date of your application approval to take the exam, but scheduling early ensures you have ample time to prepare.
Confirm the Exam Appointment: Once you’ve selected the test center and time, you will be asked to confirm your exam details. Be sure to carefully review your chosen date, time, and location before finalizing your appointment. You will then receive a confirmation email from Pearson VUE with your exam appointment details. This email will include the test center address, exam time, and any specific instructions or identification requirements for exam day.

It’s important to note that Pearson VUE offers flexibility in rescheduling your exam if necessary. If you need to change your exam date or time, you can do so up to 48 hours before your scheduled exam, though a rescheduling fee may apply. However, it’s advisable to stick to the original schedule if possible, so you can proceed with your certification goals without unnecessary delays.

Preparing for the PMI-ACP Exam

After scheduling your exam, it’s time to focus on preparation. The PMI-ACP exam is a comprehensive test that covers a wide range of agile practices and methodologies. It consists of 120 questions, which include 100 scored questions and 20 unscored pre-test questions that are used for research purposes. The exam is designed to assess your knowledge and application of agile principles, including Scrum, Kanban, Lean, and other agile frameworks.

To effectively prepare for the exam, you should focus on the following key areas:

Agile Frameworks: Make sure you are familiar with the most common agile frameworks, including Scrum, Kanban, Lean, and Extreme Programming (XP). Understand the principles, roles, and processes within each framework, and how they apply to project management.
Agile Tools and Techniques: The exam will test your understanding of various agile tools and techniques, such as sprint planning, backlog grooming, and velocity tracking. Review the tools used in agile project management and their purpose.
Agile Mindset and Practices: Beyond the technical knowledge, the PMI-ACP exam will assess your understanding of the agile mindset. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the values and principles outlined in the Agile Manifesto, and how these principles guide decision-making in agile projects.
Practice Exams: Many candidates find it useful to take practice exams to familiarize themselves with the format and question types of the PMI-ACP exam. Practice exams can help identify areas where you need further study and improve your time management during the actual exam.

Additionally, PMI offers a range of study materials and recommended resources to help you prepare. These include official PMI-ACP exam prep courses, practice exams, and books. You can also find a wealth of unofficial study guides and online forums where other candidates share their experiences and tips for preparing for the exam.

The Importance of Staying Organized and Focused

As you prepare for the PMI-ACP exam, it’s important to stay organized and focused. Set a study schedule that allows you to review all the key topics in manageable chunks. This will help you avoid feeling overwhelmed by the breadth of material and ensure that you have enough time to cover each area thoroughly.

Staying consistent in your study routine is essential. It’s also a good idea to mix up your study methods, incorporating a combination of reading, taking practice tests, attending study groups, and engaging with other learners. Different methods of learning can reinforce your understanding and keep you motivated throughout the process.

By maintaining a structured study plan and staying focused on the goal, you will be well-prepared to take the PMI-ACP exam and pass with confidence. Remember, the more effort you put into your preparation, the more likely you are to succeed in obtaining your PMI-ACP certification.

The payment and scheduling process for the PMI-ACP exam is a straightforward but crucial part of earning your certification. By following the steps outlined above, you will be able to successfully pay for the exam, schedule your testing session, and begin your final preparations for this important milestone in your career. Remember that the PMI-ACP certification is an investment in your professional growth, and the effort you put into preparing for the exam will pay off in the form of new opportunities and recognition in the field of agile project management.

Taking the PMI-ACP Exam and Certification

After completing the application process, receiving approval, and scheduling your exam, the final step toward earning your PMI-ACP (PMI Agile Certified Practitioner) certification is taking the exam itself. This section will provide an overview of what to expect on exam day, including the structure of the exam, tips for taking the test, how the scoring works, and the steps to take after you have completed the exam.

Understanding the PMI-ACP Exam Format

The PMI-ACP exam is designed to assess your knowledge and experience in agile project management, specifically focusing on agile practices and methodologies. It is a comprehensive exam that tests your ability to apply agile principles in real-world project settings. The exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions, which are divided into two categories:

100 scored questions: These questions are part of your final score and assess your understanding of key agile concepts, practices, and tools.
20 unscored pre-test questions: These are included for research purposes and do not affect your final score. They are used by PMI to evaluate new questions for future versions of the exam.

The total exam time is 3 hours, which means that you will need to manage your time effectively to complete all the questions within the allotted period. The PMI-ACP exam is computer-based, and you will be tested at Pearson VUE test centers around the world. The format of the exam allows for flexibility, as you can review and change your answers during the test, but you should be mindful of the time.

Exam Content and Key Areas of Focus

The PMI-ACP exam covers a wide range of agile concepts, methodologies, tools, and techniques. To pass the exam, you need a solid understanding of the following areas, each of which represents one of the seven domains of agile project management:

Agile Frameworks: Understand the key agile methodologies (such as Scrum, Kanban, Lean, and XP) and their roles, processes, and practices.
Agile Mindset and Practices: Demonstrate your knowledge of the agile mindset, principles, and values outlined in the Agile Manifesto. This domain focuses on your ability to foster collaboration, adaptability, and continuous improvement.
Planning and Estimating: Understand how to plan agile projects, estimate effort, and break work into smaller, manageable units. This includes familiarity with concepts such as user stories, story points, sprint planning, and velocity tracking.
Team Collaboration: Knowledge of team roles, communication strategies, and techniques for building high-performing teams is essential. This domain also emphasizes managing relationships and fostering collaboration within cross-functional teams.
Problem Solving and Risk Management: The ability to identify and resolve problems, manage risks, and ensure that projects stay on track is a key focus of this domain. You will be tested on your problem-solving skills in agile contexts.
Value-Driven Delivery: This domain focuses on delivering value to stakeholders, prioritizing work based on value, and ensuring that agile teams deliver customer-centric solutions. It also includes understanding backlog management and prioritization techniques.
Continuous Improvement: A crucial aspect of agile project management is the emphasis on learning from experience and continuously improving processes. This domain involves practices like retrospective meetings, process refinement, and adapting to changes in the project environment.

Understanding these domains and how they apply to real-world agile projects is critical for success on the exam. The PMI-ACP exam tests not only theoretical knowledge but also your ability to apply agile practices effectively in different scenarios.

Preparing for the Exam: Tips and Strategies

Proper preparation is key to passing the PMI-ACP exam. Given the broad range of topics covered, it’s important to follow a structured study plan and use a variety of resources to help you prepare. Here are some tips and strategies to help you get ready for the exam:

Review PMI-ACP Exam Content Outline: PMI provides a detailed exam content outline that outlines the domains, tasks, and percentage of questions related to each domain. Use this document as a roadmap for your studies. Make sure to focus on the areas with the highest weight and understand the concepts in depth.
Take Practice Exams: Taking practice exams is one of the best ways to prepare. Practice exams help you familiarize yourself with the question format, test your knowledge, and identify areas where you need further review. Time yourself during these practice tests to simulate the real exam experience.
Study the Agile Principles and Practices: Given that the PMI-ACP exam is designed around agile project management, it’s important to have a thorough understanding of agile principles, including the Agile Manifesto, Scrum practices, and common agile tools and techniques. Brush up on core agile concepts, as these will appear frequently on the exam.
Join Study Groups: Joining an online study group or attending in-person study sessions can help reinforce your understanding of the material. Engaging with other candidates allows you to share insights, ask questions, and receive feedback on your understanding of different concepts.
Use PMI-ACP Prep Courses: Many candidates find PMI-ACP exam prep courses helpful. These courses are designed to provide comprehensive coverage of the exam content and include interactive exercises, mock exams, and other resources that can guide your preparation. Consider enrolling in a formal exam prep course to ensure that you are fully prepared.

On the Day of the Exam: What to Expect

On the day of your PMI-ACP exam, it’s essential to arrive at the test center prepared and focused. The Pearson VUE test centers provide a controlled and standardized environment for all candidates. Here are some things you should know about the testing process:

Identification: You will need to bring valid identification with you to the test center. Typically, a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport) is required. Make sure your ID is current and matches the name on your PMI account.
Exam Instructions: Once you arrive at the test center, you will be given instructions about the exam process. This will include details on how to navigate the computer-based test, how to review questions, and how to mark your answers.
Test Environment: The test will be conducted in a quiet, secure environment. You will be seated at a computer station, where you will be able to view and answer the questions. You will have access to a calculator (if necessary), but no other materials will be allowed in the testing room.
Time Management: The exam lasts for three hours, so managing your time efficiently is essential. Avoid spending too much time on any one question. If you’re unsure about an answer, it’s better to mark it for review and move on to the next question. You can always return to it later if time permits.
Breaks: The PMI-ACP exam is continuous, with no scheduled breaks. However, you can take a break during the exam if needed. The timer will continue running during any breaks, so be mindful of the time.

Scoring and Results

Upon completing the PMI-ACP exam, you will receive your score immediately. The exam is pass/fail, and you will see whether you have passed or not right after you submit your final answers. The score report will show whether you have met the required passing standard, but specific details about which questions you answered correctly or incorrectly are not provided.

If you pass the exam, you will receive your PMI-ACP certification, which is valid for three years. To maintain your certification, you will need to earn 30 Professional Development Units (PDUs) every three years through continued education and professional activities.

If you do not pass the exam, you will be given feedback on your performance, which can help you focus your studies for future attempts. As mentioned previously, PMI allows you to retake the exam up to three times within the one-year eligibility period. If you don’t pass on your first attempt, take time to review your weak areas, and consider retaking the exam after the 60-day waiting period.

Post-Exam Actions: Certification and Maintenance

Once you pass the PMI-ACP exam, you will officially become a PMI-ACP certified professional. This certification is a powerful tool for enhancing your career in agile project management. It validates your expertise in agile methodologies and demonstrates your ability to manage projects using agile principles. With the increasing adoption of agile practices across industries, this certification can open up new career opportunities, raise your earning potential, and give you a competitive edge in the job market.

To maintain your PMI-ACP certification, you must earn 30 PDUs every three years. These PDUs can be earned through various activities, including attending training programs, webinars, conferences, and contributing to the agile community. PMI offers a range of resources to help you earn PDUs, and they provide guidelines for how PDUs can be accrued. By staying current in the field of agile project management, you will continue to build on your expertise and keep your certification valid.

Successfully passing the PMI-ACP exam is a significant achievement that demonstrates your proficiency in agile project management. By following a structured study plan, understanding the exam content, and taking the necessary steps to prepare, you can approach the exam with confidence. On the day of the exam, managing your time, staying focused, and staying calm will help you navigate the test with ease. Once you pass, the PMI-ACP certification will open new doors for career advancement and help you establish yourself as an agile project management professional.

The journey to becoming PMI-ACP certified may be challenging, but with the right preparation, commitment, and determination, it is a rewarding experience that enhances your professional credibility and provides long-term career benefits.

Final Thoughts

Earning the PMI-ACP certification is an important milestone in your career as an agile project management professional. The process requires dedication, focus, and a deep understanding of agile principles and practices. From confirming your eligibility to completing the application, preparing for the exam, and ultimately taking the test, every step contributes to your growth as a skilled practitioner in agile project management.

As we’ve seen, the PMI-ACP certification is not just about passing an exam—it’s about validating your knowledge and experience in agile methodologies and showcasing your ability to lead teams through successful, adaptive project delivery. In today’s fast-paced, ever-changing business environment, organizations are increasingly adopting agile practices to improve project outcomes, reduce waste, and enhance collaboration. Having the PMI-ACP credential sets you apart as someone who can effectively manage projects in this dynamic environment.

The preparation for the PMI-ACP exam itself is a learning experience. Through the process, you will refine your understanding of agile frameworks like Scrum, Kanban, and Lean, and how they apply to various project management situations. This knowledge not only helps you pass the exam but also equips you to lead teams more effectively, handle challenges with agility, and continuously improve your project delivery processes.

Moreover, the certification enhances your credibility in the field and opens doors to a broader range of career opportunities. It increases your marketability and demonstrates to employers that you have the expertise required to implement agile practices successfully. Whether you’re looking to advance in your current role, transition to a new position, or expand your professional network, PMI-ACP certification can be a powerful tool for achieving your career goals.

The process of preparing for and earning the PMI-ACP certification may be intense, but it is undoubtedly worth the investment. As you continue to build your agile knowledge and gain real-world experience, you will find that the benefits extend far beyond the certification itself. It will give you the confidence to lead agile projects effectively, build stronger teams, and deliver higher-value results to your organization.

Once you’ve earned your PMI-ACP certification, it’s important to remember that it’s not the end of the road but rather a stepping stone in your ongoing professional development. The certification is valid for three years, and during that time, you will need to earn 30 Professional Development Units (PDUs) to maintain your certification. Staying active in the agile community, attending workshops, and participating in webinars are great ways to keep learning and growing.

Finally, don’t forget that the journey to PMI-ACP certification is one that requires perseverance, learning from challenges, and embracing the agile mindset in your professional life. Whether it’s preparing for the exam, working on agile projects, or participating in the agile community, everything you do contributes to your professional development.

By achieving the PMI-ACP certification, you’re not just gaining a credential—you’re establishing yourself as a leader in the agile project management space, positioning yourself for continued growth and success in your career.