Certification Frequently Asked Questions

Who is PMCert?
PMCert is the independent certification body of the American Society for the Advancement of Project Management (asapm). We operate in accordance with the requirements of ISO 17024, Conformity assessment — General requirements for bodies operating certification of persons.

What is the relationship with IPMA?
We are the exclusive provider of IPMA’s Four-Level-Certification (4-L-C) program in the USA:

The International Project Management Association (IPMA) is a federation of nearly 40 national project management associations. asapm is the USA's IPMA Member Association. IPMA provides global recognition with a local flavor. (click here to go to IPMA’s website)

So this is IPMA's Certification Program?
We have enhanced IPMA’s process to support certification against the GAPPS Global Level 1 and Global Level 2 Project Manager standards as well.

The Global Alliance for Project Performance Standards (GAPPS) develops competency frameworks to benefit the program and project management community by promoting mutual recognition of standards and qualifications. (click here to go to the GAPPS website)

How can PM-related consulting and training firms benefit?
* By aligning with asapm's Competence-based approach to improving project performance.

* By becoming an asapm Competence Enabler, our marketing program that helps promote
   companies that can progress beyond knowledge, to skill, competence, and PM Performance.

* By joining asapm and working with our members to apply the National Competence Baseline, a
   foundation not only for certification, but for Talent Development and improved performance.

FAQs for Groups Seeking Level B or C

Why is there a Group Discount for Levels B and C?
Because our Assessors can plan a block of time to work with a group over a period of several days; note that Assessor travel, if required, is additional and is billed at cost.

Is there a Group discount for asapm members?
Group Pricing includes one year membership in asapm for each candidate. If a candidate is already a member, membership will be extended for an additional year.

How do I know who in my group is a Level B and who is a Level C candidate?
We use the CIFTER to evaluate each candidate's evidence. You can refer to that for guidance, but PMCert will determine whether your candidates are eligible for Level B or Level C. If your evaluation of the management complexity of their projects differs from ours, you may provide additional evidence, but all PMCert decisions are final.

Do I have to separate my candidates into two groups, Levels B and C?
Group applications can include candidates for both Levels B and C (Senior Project Manager and Project Manager).

What happens if a group participant fails?
There is no such thing as failing a Performance Competence-based certification. Instead, a candidate may fail to provide adequate evidence of competence. Those Candidates may appeal. Click here for information on the appeals process.

What about Recertification? How does that work?
Recertification is the responsibility of the individual who has been certified and will take place in accordance with standard PMCert practices. Click here for recertification requirements.

FAQs for Individuals Seeking Level B or C

Are there any other costs associated with Levels B and C?
Candidate travel, if required, is the responsibility of the candidate.

How do I know if I am a Level B a Level C candidate?
We use the CIFTER to evaluate each candidate's evidence. You can refer to that for guidance, but PMCert will determine whether you are eligible for Level B or Level C. If your evaluation of the management complexity of your projects differs from ours, you may provide additional evidence, but all PMCert decisions are final.

What happens if I fail my attempt at Performance-Competence Based Certification?
There is no such thing as failing a Performance Competence-based certification. Instead, a candidate may fail to provide adequate evidence of competence. Those Candidates may appeal. Click here for information on the appeals process.

I see that this cert is valid for 5 years. That's great! Is there a recertification program?
Yes, click here for the recertification requirements and process.

Is there a way to get the group discount for Level C or B?
You can save some money and make some new friends by organizing a group of at least 5 candidates for the exam; Contact Us for more information on this option.

FAQs for Individuals Seeking Level D

Is there a way to get the group discount for Level D?
You can save some money and make some new friends by organizing a group of at least 10 candidates for the exam; Contact Us for more information on this option.

PMCert Links:
PMCert Certification Program Overview
Certification Pricing Summary
About Our Certification Exams
Learn About Recertification
Certification From Four Perspectives: Executives, PMO Managers, Consultancies and Individuals