Quick Answer:
To fulfill the PMP 35-hour contact education requirement, enroll in a PMI-recognized or reputable provider’s formal project management course—completing all instructional modules, assessments, and obtaining a certificate that verifies 35 contact hours. Self-study does not qualify. Follow a clear schedule, keep supporting documents, and ensure your course covers PMBOK knowledge areas for full PMI compliance.
- The PMP 35-hour contact course is a mandatory prerequisite for PMP certification.
- Select an instructor-led or approved online provider offering verifiable, documented contact hours.
- Plan your studies over 3–8 weeks, incorporating assessments and real-world practice.
- Upon completion, secure your certificate to submit with your PMP application.
Table of Contents
Did you know? Over 90% of PMP applicants list the 35-hour contact course as their biggest early hurdle—but with the right approach, it can be a strategic advantage that builds your foundation for the PMP exam and your project management career.
Is This Guide Right for You?
Ideal Reader Profile
This guide is tailored for professionals preparing for the PMP certification who have not yet completed the required 35 contact hours of project management education. If you are seeking clarity on how to satisfy the PMP educational prerequisite, you’re in the right place.
Prerequisites Self-Assessment
- Do you have basic experience or interest in project management?
- Are you ready to register for a formal, instructor-led or PMI-recognized online course?
- Can you provide documented proof of completed contact hours?
- Will you allocate time over the next 6–8 weeks for coursework?
- Are you prepared to invest in a reputable PMP 35-hour course?
What You Will Have at the End
- Official completion of a PMI-accepted PMP 35-hour course
- Certificate or verifiable documentation valid for the PMP application
- Foundational knowledge in all PMBOK Guide knowledge areas
- Full readiness to apply for the PMP with proof of education
Phase 1: Preparation and Foundation
Week/Task 1: Research and Select a PMP 35 Hour Course Provider
Identify PMI-vetted or reputable PMP 35-hour course providers. Compare formats (online, in-person, self-paced), verify contact hour documentation, and ensure comprehensive coverage of PMBOK Guide knowledge areas. Read reviews and confirm provider credentials.
| Provider | Format | PMI Recognition | Certificate Provided | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LinkedIn Learning | Online, Self-paced | Yes | Yes | Low–Medium |
| Project Management Academy | Online/In-Person, Instructor-led | Yes | Yes | Medium–High |
| PMI PMI® Authorized Training Partners | Varies | Yes | Yes | Varies |
Week/Task 2: Enroll and Set a Schedule
After selecting your provider, enroll and map out your schedule. Dedicate blocks of time each week to modules, assignments, and reviews. Embed flexibility for life’s surprises and ensure you can attend live or on-demand sessions as required.
Deliverable Check-In
- Enrollment confirmation in a 35-hour course
- Personalized study timeline established
- Materials and access details received
Resources Needed
- PMI PMP Handbook and Exam Content Outline
- List of PMI-authorized course providers
- Calendar or planner (digital or paper)
Phase 2: Execution and Implementation
Week/Task 3: Complete Core Learning Modules
Dive into coursework spanning all PMBOK knowledge areas: integration, scope, schedule, cost, quality, resource, communication, risk, procurement, and stakeholder management. Actively take notes and highlight exam-relevant concepts.
| Knowledge Area | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Integration | Develop Project Charter, Manage Knowledge |
| Scope | Define Scope, Control Scope |
| Schedule | Sequence Activities, Control Schedule |
| Cost | Estimate Costs, Control Costs |
| Quality | Manage Quality, Control Quality |
| Resource | Estimate Activity Resources, Manage Team |
| Communication | Plan Communications, Manage Communications |
| Risk | Identify Risks, Control Risks |
| Procurement | Plan Procurement, Conduct Procurements |
| Stakeholder | Identify, Engage Stakeholders |
Week/Task 4: Participate in Assessments and Practical Exercises
Complete all required quizzes, case studies, and simulations. These hands-on modules reinforce learning and help confirm your grasp of critical concepts. Retain feedback and scores as evidence of participation and comprehension.
Week/Task 5: Obtain the PMP 35 Hour Course Certificate
After finishing all modules and assessments, request or download your official certificate of completion. Confirm that it states the number of contact hours (minimum 35) and includes your name, course provider, and completion date as per PMI’s criteria.
Common Roadblocks and Solutions
- Technical terminology confusion? Reference PMBOK Guide or reputable PMP prep books for clarification.
- Trouble sticking to your schedule? Designate non-negotiable study blocks in your calendar.
- Course incomplete or technical issues? Contact your provider’s support immediately for resolution and avoid delaying certification plans.
Phase 3: Optimization and Mastery
Week/Task 6: Review and Reinforce Key Concepts
Revisit any modules where your comprehension was lower. Use PMP flashcards, practice questions, or study aids for targeted review and memory retention.
Week/Task 7: Integrate Real-World Project Management Examples
Map concepts to your work or volunteer projects. Write brief summaries for each PMBOK area, illustrating how you would apply or have applied the principle. This helps bridge theory and practice—crucial for PMP scenario-based questions.
Week/Task 8: Final Verification and Documentation Review
- Verify accuracy and completeness of your completion certificate
- Ensure provider credentials match PMI standards
- Maintain organized digital and printed copies for easy PMP application submission
Tools and Resources Checklist
Essential Tools
- PMI’s Official PMP Handbook
- PMBOK Guide – Latest Edition
- LinkedIn Learning PMP 35 Hour Course (Approved Provider)
- Project Management Academy PMP Prep & Hours
Nice-to-Have Tools
- Anki or Quizlet flashcards for PMP study
- PMP Exam Simulator software
- Comprehensive note-taking tools (OneNote, Evernote)
Free Alternatives
- PMI’s free webinars for project management topics
- Open-source PMP study groups (Reddit, Facebook)
- Free trial courses (verify PMI acceptability for contact hours)
Progress Tracking Template
What to Measure
- Contact hours completed versus the 35-hour requirement
- Lessons/modules finished; comprehension checks passed
- Assessment scores and certificate status
How to Measure
- Use the dashboard from your course provider
- Maintain a simple spreadsheet or learning journal (date, time, topic, milestones)
- Log all quiz outcomes and feedback for targeted improvement
When to Adjust Course
- Missed weekly targets for 2+ weeks
- Not passing core assessments
- Persistent schedule conflicts—reschedule study sessions as necessary
Success Metrics: How to Know You’ve Arrived
| Level | Milestone |
|---|---|
| Minimum Success | 35 PMP contact hours officially completed; certificate in hand |
| Target Success | Solid grasp of key PMP knowledge areas, able to apply to real projects |
| Stretch Goal | Additional prep beyond 35 hours, strong PMP practice exam scores, participation in study groups |
What’s Next: Advanced Strategies
Level 2 Techniques
- Advanced PMP exam boot camps and workshops
- Practice with full-length simulators to build exam readiness
Related Certifications and Paths
- Explore PMI-ACP for Agile project management fundamentals
- Consider CAPM if you’re at the start of your PM career
- Look at advanced credentials like PgMP (Program Management) after your PMP
Community and Ongoing Resources
- Join your local PMI chapter for networking
- Participate in PMP forums and online study groups
- Subscribe to PMI newsletters; attend webinars and events
Downloadable Planner:
Download our comprehensive PMP 35 Hour Course Planner to schedule your study, monitor progress, and ensure you meet all PMI requirements. Start your PMP journey with a solid plan—get your contact hours efficiently and confidently!
FAQs
What is the PMP 35-hour course requirement? PMI requires all PMP applicants to complete a minimum of 35 contact hours of formal project management education—proven by a course completion certificate—before applying for certification. Can self-study or reading books fulfill the 35-hour requirement? No. Only formal, instructor-led or recognized online courses eligible for verifiable contact hour certificates meet PMI’s requirement. How do I confirm a PMP 35-hour course is PMI-approved? PMI doesn’t approve courses individually but expects alignment with the PMP Exam Content Outline. Choose well-known or PMI Authorized Training Providers, and ensure they issue recognizable certificates. Is it possible to complete the 35-hour course online? Yes, as long as the course is structured, instructor-led (live or recorded), and provides proof of completion that states 35 contact hours. How long does it take to complete the PMP 35-hour course? Most candidates finish in 3 to 8 weeks, based on their chosen schedule and course pacing. Is the PMP 35-hour course the same as exam preparation? Not exactly. The course fulfills PMI’s education requirement, while dedicated exam prep focuses on question formats, test-taking strategy, and mock exams. Can prior education count toward the PMP 35-hour contact hours? Prior formal project management training may count if it aligns with PMI’s standards and is recent. Documentation is required for verification.
Internal Resources
- How to Apply for the PMP Certification: Step-by-Step Guide
- PMP Exam Content Outline Explained for Candidates
- Top PMP Exam Preparation Courses in 2024
- Understanding PMI’s PMP Application Process
- Project Management Education Requirements for PMI Certifications
External Resources
- PMI’s Official PMP Certification Page
- PMBOK Guide and Standards
- Project Management Academy – PMP Contact Hours
Key Takeaways
- The PMP 35-hour contact course is an essential, non-negotiable step in your PMP journey.
- Choose providers that align with PMI requirements and offer robust educational coverage and clear certification.
- Track your progress, overcome common obstacles, and organize your documents before application.
- Use this foundational period not only to fulfill PMI’s requirement, but to permanently strengthen your project management acumen.
By following this structured approach—from selecting the right course through to final verification—you’ll meet the PMP education requirement confidently and be fully prepared for successful application and certification.
Take your next step: Ready to schedule and complete your PMP 35-hour course? Download your free study planner now to organize your journey and achieve your certification goals!
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