6 Tips to Claim 35 Contact Hours in your PMP Certification Application

The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a globally recognized professional certification for project managers. The PMP certification application is offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI) and is based on the PMI’s Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK). The PMP certification demonstrates that a project manager has the knowledge, skills, and experience required to successfully manage projects.

One of the requirements for obtaining the PMP certification application is to fulfill the 35 contact hours of project management education. This means that an individual must have completed 35 hours of formal project management education before they can apply for the sample PMP application.

Importance of fulfilling the 35 contact hours requirement

1. Requirement for Certification: Fulfilling the 35 contact hours requirement is mandatory for obtaining the PMP certification. Without completing the 35 contact hours of project management education, an individual cannot apply for the PMP certification.
2. Quality of Education: The 35 contact hours requirement ensures that PMP candidates receive a minimum level of quality project management education. This ensures that PMP candidates have a common understanding of project management concepts and principles.
3. Professional Development: Fulfilling the 35 contact hours requirement allows PMP candidates to expand their knowledge and skills in project management. This can lead to professional growth and development.
4. Competitive Advantage: The PMP certification is highly respected in the project management community. Fulfilling the 35 contact hours requirement can give PMP candidates a competitive advantage in the job market.
5. Increased Credibility: The PMP certification is recognized globally and indicates that a project manager has a high level of knowledge, skills, and experience in project management. Fulfilling the 35 contact hours requirement adds to the credibility of the PMP certification and demonstrates that project manager is committed to their professional development.

Tips to claim 35 contact hour

Tip 1: Choose a reliable PMP training provider

Selecting a reliable PMP training provider is critical to ensure that the 35 contact hours requirement is fulfilled. A reputable training provider will offer high-quality project management education that is in line with the PMI’s Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) and will adequately prepare candidates for the PMP exam.

Importance of selecting a reputable training provider

1. Quality of Education: A reputable training provider will offer high-quality project management education that is in line with the PMBOK. This ensures that PMP candidates receive a minimum level of quality project management education.
2. Preparation for the PMP Exam: A reputable training provider will adequately prepare PMP candidates for the PMP exam. This can increase the chances of passing the exam on the first attempt.
3. Credibility: A reputable training provider adds credibility to the 35 contact hours of project management education completed by a PMP candidate. This can enhance the credibility of the PMP certification.

Criteria to consider when selecting a training provider

1. Accreditation: A reputable training provider should be accredited by a recognized organization such as the PMI. This ensures that the training provider meets the minimum standards for project management education.
2. Course Content: The course content should be in line with the PMBOK and cover all the necessary project management topics. The course should be structured and provide a comprehensive understanding of project management concepts and principles.
3. Instructor Qualifications: The instructors should be experienced project managers who hold the PMP certification application. They should be knowledgeable, engaging, and able to answer questions.
4. Delivery Method: The training provider should offer a delivery method that is suitable for the candidate’s learning style and schedule. This can be classroom-based, online, or a hybrid approach.
5. Reviews: The training provider should have positive reviews from past candidates. Reading reviews from previous candidates can provide valuable insight into the quality of the training provider’s project management education.

Tip 2: Attend a classroom-based or online training course

Attending a formal training course is an effective way to fulfill the 35 contract hours required for the PMP certification. PMP candidates can choose between classroom-based and online training courses. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages.

Comparison of classroom-based vs. online training courses

1. Classroom-Based Training: This type of training is conducted in a physical classroom with an instructor and other PMP candidates. Classroom-based training allows for face-to-face interaction and collaboration with peers and instructors. It can provide an immersive learning experience and help candidates stay focused and motivated. However, classroom-based training can be expensive and may require travel and time away from work.
2. Online Training: This type of training is conducted over the Internet. Online training allows for flexibility and convenience since candidates can learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. It can be more cost-effective than classroom-based training and eliminate the need for travel. However, online training may lack the face-to-face interaction and collaboration that classroom-based training provides. It can also require a high level of self-discipline and motivation to complete the training.

Benefits of attending a formal training course

1. Structured Learning: A formal training course provides a structured approach to learning project management concepts and principles. It covers all the necessary topics in a systematic manner and ensures that candidates have a comprehensive understanding of project management.
2. Interaction with Instructors and Peers: A formal training course provides an opportunity for PMP candidates to interact with instructors and peers. This can provide valuable insights and perspectives on project management from experienced professionals. It also allows candidates to ask questions and receive feedback.
3. Exam Preparation: A formal training course is designed to prepare PMP candidates for the PMP exam. The course covers all the necessary topics and provides tips and strategies for passing the exam.
4. Credibility: Attending a formal training course adds credibility to the 35 contact hours of project management education completed by a PMP candidate. It demonstrates a commitment to professional development and can enhance the credibility of the PMP certification.

Tip 3: Participate in a boot camp or accelerated learning program

Participating in a boot camp or accelerated learning program is another way to fulfill the 35 contact hours required for the PMP certification. Boot camps or accelerated learning programs are intensive training programs that provide an immersive learning experience in a short period of time.

Definition of a boot camp or accelerated learning program

1. Boot Camp: A PMP boot camp is an intensive training program that is designed to prepare PMP candidates for the PMP exam in a short period of time. It is usually a 4 to a 5-day program that provides a comprehensive review of project management concepts and principles.
2. Accelerated Learning Program: An accelerated learning program is a training program that compresses a traditional training course into a shorter period of time. It is designed for PMP candidates who have a limited amount of time to complete the 35 contact hours requirement.

Advantages and disadvantages of participating in a boot camp or accelerated learning program

Advantages:

• Time-Saving: Boot camps or accelerated learning programs provide a fast track to fulfilling the 35 contact hours requirement. They are designed to cover all the necessary project management concepts and principles in a short period of time.
• Intensive Learning Experience: Boot camps or accelerated learning programs provide an immersive learning experience. They cover all the necessary topics in-depth and help candidates to retain the information better.
• Exam Preparation: Boot camps or accelerated learning programs are designed to prepare PMP candidates for the PMP exam. They provide tips and strategies for passing the exam.
• Structured Learning: Boot camps or accelerated learning programs provide a structured approach to learning project management concepts and principles.

Disadvantages:

• Cost: Boot camps or accelerated learning programs can be expensive compared to traditional training courses or online learning options.
• Intensive Learning Experience: The intensive learning experience can be overwhelming for some candidates. Boot camps or accelerated learning programs require a high level of focus and dedication to complete successfully.
• Limited Interaction: Boot camps or accelerated learning programs may not provide as much interaction with instructors and peers compared to traditional training courses.

Tip 4: Engage in self-paced learning

Engaging in self-paced learning is another way to fulfill the 35 contact hours required for the PMP certification application. Self-paced learning allows candidates to learn at their own pace, on their own schedule, and in their own environment.

Explanation of self-paced learning

Self-paced learning is a type of learning that allows individuals to learn at their own pace, without the need for live instruction. It can be done through various resources such as online courses, study guides, practice exams, and books.

Benefits of self-paced learning

1. Flexibility: Self-paced learning allows candidates to learn at their own pace, on their own schedule, and in their own environment. This flexibility allows candidates to balance their work and personal commitments while completing their PMP certification requirements.
2. Cost-effective: Self-paced learning resources such as online courses, study guides, practice exams, and books are generally more affordable than traditional classroom-based or online training courses.
3. Customizable: Self-paced learning resources allow candidates to customize their learning experience to their own learning styles and needs.

Limitations of self-paced learning

1. Self-discipline: Self-paced learning requires a high level of self-discipline and motivation to stay on track and complete the required hours.
2. Limited interaction: Self-paced learning resources do not provide the same level of interaction with instructors and peers compared to classroom-based or online training courses.

Examples of self-paced learning resources

1. Online courses: There are many online courses available that provide self-paced learning options for PMP candidates. These courses often include video lectures, quizzes, and assignments to help candidates learn the necessary project management concepts and principles.
2. Study guides: PMP study guides provide candidates with an overview of the project management concepts and principles tested on the PMP exam. Candidates can use these guides to study and prepare for the exam at their own pace.
3. Practice exams: Practice exams are a great way for candidates to assess their knowledge and understanding of project management concepts and principles. Candidates can use practice exams to identify areas where they need to focus their study efforts.

Tip 5: Attend webinars or seminars

Attending webinars or seminars is another way to fulfill the 35 contact hours required for the PMP certification. Webinars and seminars provide an opportunity for candidates to learn from industry experts and gain knowledge on specific project management topics.

Definition of webinars and seminars

Webinars are online presentations or lectures that are delivered in real time to a remote audience. Seminars are in-person or online events that provide an opportunity for attendees to learn from industry experts and gain knowledge on specific topics.

Advantages of attending webinars or seminars

1. Expertise: Webinars and seminars are often presented by industry experts who have in-depth knowledge and experience in project management. Attending these events provides an opportunity for candidates to learn from the best in the field.
2. Networking: Webinars and seminars provide an opportunity for candidates to connect with other project management professionals and build their professional network.
3. Convenience: Webinars can be attended from anywhere with an internet connection, and seminars can be attended in person or online, making them convenient for busy professionals.

Disadvantages of attending webinars or seminars

1. Cost: Attending webinars or seminars can be expensive, especially if travel and accommodation costs are involved.
2. Time constraints: Webinars and seminars are often scheduled for a specific date and time, which may not be convenient for all candidates.

How to find relevant webinars or seminars?

1. PMI events: The Project Management Institute (PMI) hosts various events throughout the year, including webinars and seminars. These events cover a wide range of project management topics and are often presented by industry experts.
2. Industry associations: Industry associations such as the International Association of Project Management (IAPM) and the Association for Project Management (APM) also host webinars and seminars on project management topics.
3. Online search: A simple online search can help candidates find relevant webinars and seminars on project management topics. Candidates can use keywords such as “PMP webinars” or “project management seminars” to find relevant events.

Tip 6: Volunteer or work on PMP-related projects

Volunteering or working on PMP-related projects is another way to fulfill the 35 contact hours required for the PMP certification. This option allows candidates to gain practical project management experience and apply their knowledge in a real-world setting.

How volunteering or working on PMP-related projects can fulfill the 35 contact hours requirement?

Candidates can earn contact hours by working on PMP-related projects and documenting their experience. To qualify, the projects must be related to project management and involve the application of project management principles and techniques. The PMI recommends that candidates document their experience in a project log, which includes a description of the project, the role the candidate played, and the number of hours spent on the project.

Examples of PMP-related projects:

1. Project management for a non-profit organization: Candidates can volunteer their project management skills to help non-profit organizations plan and execute projects. For example, a candidate could lead a fundraising campaign or coordinate a community service project.
2. Managing a team in a professional setting: Candidates can earn contact hours by managing a project team in a professional setting. This could involve leading a team on a project or serving as a project manager for a specific initiative.
3. Process improvement project: Candidates can earn contact hours by leading or participating in a process improvement project in their organization. This could involve streamlining a process, improving efficiency, or implementing new technology.

Conclusion

In conclusion, fulfilling the 35 contact hours requirement is an essential step towards obtaining the PMP certification. Candidates have several options to choose from to gain the necessary contact hours, such as attending a training course, participating in a boot camp or accelerated learning program, engaging in self-paced learning, attending webinars or seminars, and volunteering or working on PMP-related projects. It is crucial for candidates to select a reputable training provider, evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each option, and ensure that the projects they undertake are related to project management and involve the application of project management principles and techniques. By taking these tips into consideration, candidates can fulfill the 35 contact hours requirement and achieve their goal of obtaining the PMP certification.

Author:Varun Anand is the Project management expert, PMP mentor and a trainer at EduHubSpot. His Project Management institute (PMI) certification include Project Management Professional (PMP), PMI-ACP, PfMP, and CAPM. He has also done CSM certification from Scrum Alliance. Varun is an engineering graduate from the University of Maryland, Baltimore.

With over 10 years of experience in training students for PMP certification Exam, Varun is an internationally known Project Management speaker and educator. He has trained thousands of professionals, earning widespread respect in the industry. At EduHubSpot, he brings the practical side of Project Management to life, helping professionals master PMP from anywhere. He is also an experienced and renowned author.