Frequently asked questions - Qualifications and Training

No, the qualifications offer structured progression, however, you should start at a level appropriate to your needs and experience.

Each qualification has sample examination papers to help you ascertain the right level of qualification for you.                 

You can also assess your level of competence against our Competence Framework. There is a high level self assessment tool you can use featured on our CPD information page.

Notification of your results will be provided within (we cannot give results by telephone):

• Fundamentals qualification: 2 weeks
• Management qualification: 8 weeks
• Professional qualification: 10 weeks
• Risk Certificate Level 1: 2 weeks
• Risk Certificate Level 2: 10 weeks

For paper examinations:

• Fundamentals qualification: 6 weeks
• Risk Certificate Level 1: 6 weeks

Training for the following courses can be achieved through undertaking a course with an Accredited Training Provider:

• APM Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ) formerly known as Introductory Certificate
• APM Project Management Qualification (PMQ) formerly known as APMP
• Risk Certificates

The Provider will then schedule an exam for you with APM.

There is a directory of our Accredited Training Providers online. You can narrow the search by exam type, mode of delivery and location.

Candidates wishing to self-study can book onto an open exam directly with APM. View further open exam details. 

In line with the Equality Act 2010, APM has a duty to provide reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities, special educational needs, or temporary injuries to ensure they can access assessments without being disadvantaged. Adjustments can be made to exam conditions for APM qualifications or standard assessments.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

• Extra time and/or supervised rest breaks
• Use of a scribe or reader
• Permission to submit handwritten exam scripts
• Permission to use specialist equipment

For full details and how to apply, please refer to our Reasonable Adjustments and Access Arrangements Policy.

The pass mark is 36 out of 60 which equals 60%.

This may be changed on the recommendation of the Examinations Technical Assurance Group during the lifetime of the qualification.

Absolutely. Anyone awarded the CPM qualification (IPMA Level B) has demonstrated a high level of competence across the entire project life cycle and it will continue to maintain an individual's status in the market. However it is subject to a 5 yearly recertification for current holders, looking at a candidates CV and recent project history.

APM Practitioner Qualification (PQ) is a recognised route one assessment towards chartered status (ChPP). For more information on what this means for you please visit our ChPP webpage.