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Writer's pictureSHIBU VALSALAN

PMP Exam is Changing!

Updated: Sep 23, 2023

PMI introduces major exam changes to the PMP® exam for Enhanced Exam Security starting 25 September 2023.

"On 25 September 2023 (EST), we're introducing enhanced data forensics and security policies for the Project Management Professional (PMP)® exam. These updates uphold the integrity of PMP® certification and reinforce the fairness and validity of the testing process" PMI (2023).

PMP Exam Changes September 2023 by Shibu Valsalan
Image source: Google

A summary of the changes made to the PMP Exam, along with guidance on how to adapt to these changes and an exploration of their consequences. What PMP exam changes can be expected from 25 September 2023?

The Project Management Professional (PMI-PMP) exam is widely recognized as the pinnacle certification in the field of project management. It boasts a community of more than 1.4 million credential holders spanning various domains, including project management, operations, business management, and other sectors [1]. Over time, the PMP course has undergone numerous changes, encompassing updates to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) and Exam Content Outlines (ECOs).

However, the journey hasn't been without its challenges, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Testing centers faced restrictions, leading to the introduction of online exam options. Unfortunately, this shift also gave rise to unethical practices, such as online proxy exams, which go against the PMI code of ethics. Numerous organizations and individuals began advertising free exam assistance on social media channels, an issue that has drawn PMI's attention.

I strongly endorse the core aim of making sure that all PMP certification holders are truly qualified to work as project managers. This prestigious credential can only be attained through their diligent effort in successfully passing the PMP exam and amassing substantial experience in the field of project management.

As part of the exam enhancements, PMI will implement data forensics and security policies for the PMP exam. This is to uphold the integrity of PMP certification and reinforce the fairness and validity of the testing process.

Specifically, the new measures will help to:

  • Detect and prevent cheating and fraud.

  • Protect the confidentiality of test-taker data.

  • Ensure that all test-takers are given a fair and equal opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills.


How this would affect the new PMP candidates?

In terms of functionality, the following will apply to all candidates participating in the PMP exam starting on September 25, 2023.


PMI EXAM CHANGES STARTING 25 SEP 2023 BY SHIBU VALSALAN
Source: On Enhanced Exam Security for Project Management Professional (PMP)® Exam

The below changes are applicable effectively from 25 September 2023.


1. Exam Results: After completing the exam, candidates will receive notification that their responses have been forwarded to PMI, and they can expect to receive an email from PMI containing their exam results within five (5) business days.

2. Security breach: When misconduct is detected, the exam is categorized as a security breach. The candidate will be sent an email notification stating that their score has been invalidated and will not be disclosed.

3. Re-appearance: Candidates who experience a security failure must retake the exam in person (CBT) and cover the associated expenses themselves. These security failures will be considered as one of the candidate's three allowable PMP® exam attempts within a single eligibility period.

New Security Rules & their Impact.

If PMI cancels a candidate's exam score, it's considered an exam security failure. Having a security failure means you've used up one of your three allowed attempts for the PMP test during a specific eligibility period. All PMP candidates can still take the exam up to three times within a year's eligibility period. However, if your score is canceled, you'll also be required to take any future retakes at a physical test center.

To maintain the exam's credibility, candidates who experience an exam security failure won't be allowed to retake the PMP test online. They will need to retake the exam in person. This measure is in place to implement extra security measures and to guarantee that all candidates are personally taking the test without relying on proxy testing services.

Cancellation of PMI Membership due to violation?


If a few candidates whose scores were invalidated due to exam security issues may also be members of PMI or PMI chapters. Currently, PMI does not have intentions to terminate the memberships of those impacted. However, it's important to note that PMI retains the authority to take further actions against any misconduct, including the possibility of revoking membership for individuals who violate our ethical and professional conduct agreements.

The changes to the PMP exam methods are meant to improve the experience for test-takers and ensure that the certification remains a valuable credential for project managers.

PMI regards exam security matters with utmost seriousness and will take necessary actions concerning training entities as required. If you have more questions about this or any other exam security-related topics, please feel free to reach out to them at examsecurity@pmi.org.

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