PRINCE2® Foundation and Practitioner Certification Training

PRINCE2® stands for Projects In Controlled Environments. Though this methodology originated and is commonly accepted in the UK, it is a globally recognized certificate that some industries prefer above PMP. It provides one of the best guides to project management.

Some of the key features of PRINCE2® include attention on the justification of a business, well-structured organization for team members executing a project, division of projects into manageable units and flexibility among others. Being a methodology, a lot of people prefer it to other related project management certificates which often tilts more towards theory. Project managers opt for this certification to get detailed processes that are more practical in approach.

In 1989, the Central Computer and Telecommunications Agency (CCTA)in the UK  adopted a method called PROMPT II as a UK Government standard for information systems (IT) project management. It was called 'PRINCE', an acronym that originally stood for PROMPT II IN the CCTA Environment. The acronym PRINCE was later attributed to PRojects IN Controlled Environments and was used outside the IT environment, both in the UK and around the world.

PRINCE2® was released in 1996 as a generic project management method.  It contains several themes and processes, which project managers and some industries have preferred above others as a result of it practicality and methodology. Though more popular in the UK and some countries of the world, it is a globally recognized management system that has been effective for users and project managers.

PRINCE2® is a useful certification if you have the desire to expand your horizon in the field of project management. It has well laid down templates, methodologies, and processes that can help you execute all sorts of projects. Being a well-recognized certification, you are sure of gaining 20% more recognition than those who are not certified. You also stand the chance of getting hired faster as a PRINCE2® professional than someone without the certification.

PRINCE2® certification gives you an edge over those who are not certified when it comes to salary and other benefits. It is very flexible and can be adapted to all kinds of projects.

Project management offers a clear cut methodology to solve project related problems, streamline processes and enhance productivity and profitability. Without it, there will be no defined plans and clearly mapped out directions which a project should follow. It also helps to do away with chaos.

Without project management, there will be no teamwork or organized collaboration. It also helps to maximize the use of all available resources towards successful project completion. Other benefits include: change management with ease, cost control (reduces all financial risks), management of quality and so on.

PRINCE2® has no prerequisites so many people take this certification in the early years of their careers, as compared to the PMP certification which requires that a person must have 7500 hours of experience in case of a secondary degree, or 4500 hours of experience with a 4 year degree.

Also, the PRINCE 2 as a project management methodology has a clear approach for managing and completing a project successfully which is flexible in application, unlike the PMP management techniques that are considered as theoretical and rigid in real life scenarios and dire project situations. The PRINCE2® methodology can be applied to various organizational processes as well as in projects.

The cost of PRINCE2® certification includes the exam fee, training fee, and learning materials fee. The cost of the PRINCE2® Foundation exam fee is $365, while the PRINCE2® Practitioner exam fee is $485. However, this varies from one country to another. The training fee for PRINCE2® courses online ranges from $300 - $1000. The classroom training cost around $1,000. 

Some courses are bundled with the PRINCE2® Foundation and Practitioner certification exams costs. The bundle training can help you save money for both the PRINCE2® Foundation and Practitioner certification exams.

PRINCE2® qualification is the certificate received after passing the PRINCE2® Foundation exam or the PRINCE2® Practitioner exam. If you appear for only PRINCE2® Foundation exam and pass it, you are given the PRINCE2® Foundation certificate but if you sit both exams and pass them,  you are given the PRINCE2® Practitioner certificate.

Most candidates start with the Foundation level after which they proceed to the Practitioner. A qualified PRINCE2® candidate has higher chances of getting lucrative jobs and also doing his or her job more effectively. PRINCE2® qualification can also be of great benefits to organizations as they will be able to sustain their clients’ interest by using this proven methodology.

The PRINCE2® foundation exam is the first stage of the 3 levels of PRINCE2® exams. Being a Foundation exam, there are basically no requirements or conditions for taking it. The exam is set on the foundation course to enable candidates to apply the principles of PRINCE2® to any given project as a team member. The exam format is multiple choice questions comprising 60 questions. If you are able to pass 33 questions correctly, you have made the 55% pass mark requirement. Candidates are given 60 minutes to attempt all questions

No. It is a closed book exam. It is the PRINCE2® Practitioner that is an open book exam, where candidates are allowed to take their manuals into the examination room and make use of key points and other useful processes. There is usually no penalty for taking it into the examination as no one cares what it is being used for.

The exam format for the Foundation exam is 60 multiple choice questions. If you are able to pass 33 questions correctly, you have made the 55% pass mark requirement. Candidates are given 60 minutes to attempt all questions.

PRINCE2® is a specialized framework that helps both aspiring and practicing managers carry out their projects within the allotted time and a given budget. It helps managers in dividing given tasks and projects into clear stages from start to finish focusing especially on product delivery rather than mere activities.

It contains 4 main elements; 7 principles, 7 themes, 7 processes and adaptation to the environment of the project. It suits different categories of projects. The goal of the business and the requirements serve as guiding principles for the entire project from the beginning to the end. Above all, the progress of projects is well evaluated.

This question doesn’t have a specific answer as the number of project managers across the globe is perpetually on the rise. However, a statistics showed that The PMI claims 450,000 members, and over 650,000 certified Project Management Professionals (PMP). The Project Management Institute's quotes: Through 2020, 1.57 million new project management jobs will be created each year around the world, according to our Project Management Talent Gap report. The number will continue to increase because of the demand for the profession.

Axelos is the body that governs PRINCE2®. It is an accredited training organization that has complete authority in conducting trainings and awarding certification examinations. As a result of this, Axelos has all the authority to conduct trainings in PRINCE2® and also award candidates the Practitioner exam certificate. This is why most PRINCE2® candidates have the logo of Axelos on  their PRINCE2® Practitioner certificate.

Axelos was created in 2013 in the UK with the aim of managing, developing and growing globally recognized project management portfolios. The methodologies that are part of the portfolio of Axelos are embraced and used globally by project managers and other programmers.

PRINCE2® is a popular project management methodology that was instituted by the UK government as the de facto standard for information systems projects. It is used in different countries of the world in both private and public sector projects. PRINCE2® was started to curb the occurrence of project failure. It makes it easy to spot problems right on time. It helps project managers to keep projects on track and deliver them within the stipulated budget and time. It divides projects into three stages i.e. the beginning, middle and the closing.

PRINCE2® is very useful because it is self-encompassing. It can be applied to all projects without any software except what the company prefers to use. The knowledge of PRINCE2® will teach you principles and methodologies to effectively discharge your project without any hassle.

PRINCE2® certified project managers are in higher demand than ordinary project managers who are yet to be certified professionals. Apart from its flexibility and easy adaptability to all kinds of projects, the language of PRINCE2® is the language of all project management. PRINCE2® is practical and employers are beginning to prefer it for this reason.

PRINCE2® as a project management methodology is used across industries like IT, real estate, energy, FMCG, banking and many others. These industries apply the PRINCE2® project management methodology and proven principles when initiating and executing projects due to its flexibility and ability to substantially improve project deliverables.

The processes highlighted in the PRINCE2® framework are scalable and are useful in SMEs and more defined organizations. Due to its results-oriented approach, PRINCE2® validates the project managers’ use of the best practices required to ensure success in projects executed in these industries.

The PRINCE2® certification is recognized all over the world and the numbers of certified individuals increase every year. Its methodology and flexibility solves project management issues by identifying any risks, opportunities, and threats in projects while determining the best response to these challenges.

The PRINCE2® employs best practices in initiating, managing and completing projects in the public and private sector companies globally. Therefore, projects will be delivered successfully irrespective of schedule, cost or quality constraints while minimizing the chances of project failure. Its highly adaptable and flexible application makes it the best fit for any industry sector or project type.

The PMP and PRINCE2® are both project management certifications with different frameworks. PMP is built on the PMBOK guidelines and principles as its standard of operation instead of a methodology. It is an embodiment of processes and working techniques which a project manager can imbibe and follow to accomplish a given project. It is more of a theory and guide.

PRINCE2®, on the other hand, is a method with complete and well-detailed templates and processes, which provide step-by-step direction on project organization and execution. It involves more practical skills than the theory found in PMP. Unlike the PMP that serves as a reference guide, PRINCE2® is more of an operations manual.

PRINCE2® Foundation level of exam is easier than PMP but the practitioner aspect is often regarded as being more difficult than PMP. The difficulty level depends on individuals and the rationale behind the exam. All professional exams are difficult to some extent and passing them at your first sitting requires diligence. Anyone who has the capacity to read and understand given concepts might not find PMP difficult. In a general sense, since PRINCE2® is more of practical, a lot of people might find it easier than PMP that is full of theories and other concepts that require serious mastery.

The PRINCE2® certification has seen a rapid rise in demand in many countries in Asia and is regarded as the preferred option for project management certification in the Indian market. There is no prequalification for the PRINCE2® Foundation course so anyone with an interest in project management can subscribe to some learning and attempt the examinations.

Also as a project management methodology, its processes and guidelines help manage, mitigate risks and solve challenges that occur in projects. The PRINCE2® is also more flexible in its administration so more people take advantage of that and opt for it rather than the CAPM certification.

PRINCE2® methodology is a widely known standard put in place by the UK Government for effective project management. It is recognized and used in the private sector in the UK and internationally. The PRINCE2® framework stipulates that a project should have an organized and controlled beginning, middle and closing. This signifies that a project must have a plan before the execution.  It must be controlled as it is ongoing and when the project ends, all loose ends must be tidy.

The term PRINCE2® is an acronym for PRojects IN Controlled Environments, version 2 and its principles can be defined as a framework of good project practice for those involved in a project. These principles are core values that must always exist in a PRINCE2® project. 

There are seven of these principles defined and these are:

1. Continued Business Justification 
2. Learn from Experience  
3. Defined Roles and Responsibilities  
4. Manage by Stages  
5. Manage by Exceptions 
6. Focus on Products  
7. Tailor to Suit the Project Environment

The PRINCE2® framework is composed of four integrated elements which are Principles, Themes, Processes, and adaptation to the project environment. The framework is built on 7 principles, 7 themes, 7 processes and is tailored to the project environment. These principles are the foundations of the framework.

The themes concern aspects of project management that must be continuously addressed throughout the project and the processes describe who is responsible for performing the themes at different points of the project. Since every project is different; so the themes and processes must be tailored to suit the needs of the environment.

The PRINCE2® themes are divided into 7 categories. They are business case, organization, quality, plans, risk, change, and progress. They give the needed insights into how any project should be carried out in order for it to be result-oriented.

The first theme examines whether a given project is worth venturing into. The second breaks the project into manageable units. The next theme ensures the consistency of projects with high standards. The fourth theme ensures all stages are well covered without any loophole. The fifth stage calculates all possible risks and how to handle them when they arise and so on.

The 7 Themes of the PRINCE2® methodology include Business Case, Organisation, Quality, Plans, Risk, Change, Progress.

Yes, PRINCE2® certificates are in higher demand in the UK than in US where PMP is of higher value. Having a PRINCE2® certification in the UK will surely help you further your career if you are in the project management field or wish to pursue your career in that direction. Apart from getting the certificate to enhance your career pursuit and job search, you must be ready to add value to the project of your company’s client by appropriating the principles of PRINCE2®.

All over the world, irrespective of employers’ preference and geographical location factor in terms of project management certificate selections, project management professionals are highly paid.

Various aspects of a project can be managed with the PRINCE2® project management methodology by specifically developing and adopting PRINCE2® processes in an organization’s framework where the knowledge can be strategically applied. The framework of the PRINCE2® allows project managers to deploy and control their resources effectively and efficiently.

Organizations also allow the project managers to make decisions using their PRINCE2® knowledge and approach to effectively manage the projects under their purview while mitigating threats and risks. The developed processes help the projects under execution be broken down into simpler and more effective work packages.

Peoplecert is a globally recognized assessment/certification institute for all professional exams. It also partners with other organizations as well as government agencies for professional delivery and development of professional exams that are flawless and of high standards. Countless numbers of exams are delivered to different categories of people worldwide using different languages and unbeatable assessment technology tools.

With the use of proctors, individuals can now write their professional exams online using exam shield and can be invigilated via the internet. Peoplecert delivers several certification programs on behalf of Axelos and other similar organizations. It is now the only recognized institute that delivers Axelos examination globally.

PRINCE2® Agile is a comprehensive agile project management solution, that combines the flexibility and responsiveness of agile with the proven governance capabilities of PRINCE2®. The PRINCE2® agile was designed to interface between agile product delivery and project management. It is a combination of a certification scheme and the PRINCE2® agile guidance. 

It comes with several benefits such as allowing users to have focus on delivery and management simultaneously. As it is compatible with any known agile system, it helps with meeting deadlines on a regular basis, and contains tools that help in managing and reacting to necessary changes , thus increasing confidence among stakeholders.

PRINCE2® is often described as a waterfall method.  PRINCE2® is a project ‘waterfall’ approach, and is one of the several well-known and widely implemented waterfall methodologies that are used on IT projects. A waterfall approach is where requirements are documented and approved before moving to a design phase, followed by a build phase and finally a testing phase. Agile is also a project management methodology which put forth a groundbreaking mindset on delivering value and collaborating with customers.

As a Project Management methodology, PRINCE2® has better job prospects and is not affiliated to a specific industry sector or organization. It can be used in any industry, organization or in projects of any scale. The practical application of the methods and processes for project management helps a PRINCE2® professional expands his or her possible areas of work and appeal to a larger offering of employers and organizations.

As a credential that is highly sought after, PRINCE2® gives better compensation packages for certified project managers because its tested skills increase the effectiveness of project teams.

ITIL, the acronym for Information Technology Infrastructure Library, is the most renowned framework for IT service management in the world. ITIL is similar to PRINCE2® as it is also process-based and is also managed by AXELOS Ltd. It provides the ability to improve how IT is delivered and managed within an organization.

With ITIL, efficiency can continually be improved. It also promotes effectiveness, quality and cost management. ITIL has been used for IT but organizations are using it in a variety of settings for different purposes. Though similar, they both have different scopes. While knowledge of PRINCE2® is needed for ITIL, knowledge of ITIL is not necessary for PRINCE2®.

PRINCE2® is a very valuable qualification just as many of the others are. In fact, it is considered to be an asset in the project management industry. PRINCE2® is one of the few proven methods of delivering a project Successfully, on time and within budget and to high-quality standards. 

There is a lot to gain from getting a PRINCE2® certification, and some of the benefits include: 

1. It develops the framework of the project. 
2. It provides an almost accurate checklist of what needs to happen on a project and when. 
3. PRINCE2® will guide the project manager on when to execute a particular task.

No, PRINCE2® certifications expire neither at Foundation levels nor at Practitioner levels. It is the status of membership of a registered practitioner that expires. Your status as a registered member expires 5 years after you have been certified. However, you can re-register for the exam after 3 years of passing the Practitioner examination. The date of expiry is clearly stated on the certificate (Practitioner).

You can also confirm your status; registration and expiration from Axelos that is the company that manages and develops the PRINCE2® Portfolio, because all candidates who have successfully passed the exam and have been certified have their details registered with them.

PRINCE2® Foundation qualification is valid for a lifetime. It does not have an expiry date. PRINCE2® Practitioner certificate does not expire as well. Your certification is valid for a lifetime. However, your status as a registered PRINCE2®Practitioner will expire after 5 years but can be easily renewed.  To renew your status as a registered PRINCE2® Practitioner, you will need to take and pass the PRINCE2® Re-registration exam 3 to 5 years after your qualification. This is very important as it shows your employer you have an up-to-date knowledge of PRINCE2®.

Not necessarily. You can get into the project management industry without the PRINCE2® certification. However, it is advisable you get it for the following reasons: 

1. It is one Project Management certification that can be acquired without committing all of your time and resources. This means you can actually do your paid job and also attend training at your convenience.  
2. It is easy to get the certificate in hand immediately as soon as the training and exam have been completed as there is no strenuous registration process required to get your certification. 
3. It helps you easily develop the main project management skill-set needed to be a professional.

There are no prerequisites if one wishes to attend the workshop but in order to appear for the Practitioner certification, candidates must have one of several credentials, mentioned above. The Foundation Level examination has no such prerequisites.

PRINCE2® (Projects IN Controlled Environments) is the standard process-based project management technology that provides a step-by-step approach to deliver an effective project. It is widely used in the UK and internationally. It emphasizes dividing projects into manageable steps. It uses practices from different industries. The certification comprises different levels which are PRINCE2® Foundation (basic level), PRINCE2® Practitioner, PRINCE2® Professional (for practitioners) and PRINCE2® Agile (Agile methods).

You will receive the certification from our accrediting body, Axelos.

On clearing the PRINCE2® Foundation exam, you would receive the PRINCE2® Foundation Certification from Axelos.

The PRINCE2® certification comes in 2 stages; Foundation and Practitioner. To acquire the Foundation certificate, there are no actual conditions to be met; just the basic knowledge of project management is needed which is not compulsory. However, for the Practitioner certification, you need to have passed the foundational level or either of Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) and IPMA Level A/B/C/D.  You also need to undergo a training by a certified PRINCE2® trainer or take an online course from an accredited project management training institution before sitting for the exam.

It takes 2 days for the PRINCE2® Foundation classroom training and 2 days also for the PRINCE2® Practitioner training.  The online training for PRINCE2® Foundation takes 16 hours of study while the PRINCE2®Practitioner online training takes 16 hours of study. While choosing the PRINCE2® online training, ensure that the provider offers a training manual, video course or audio training and if possible online exam simulator or practice exam papers.

While there are no specific figures showing the numbers of people in India that are PRINCE2® certified, a 2016 survey carried out by AXELOS-PRINCE2® shows that the region with the fastest growing numbers of PRINCE2® professionals in Central Asia is India, as the percentage of growth has shot up by 14% as compared to the UK. More people in India have submitted in a recent study that they found PRINCE2® to be of great value to their careers. This shows the importance of the certification and as such many, more people are planning to or have obtained the PRINCE2® certification.

IT professionals should get a PRINCE2® certification in the early stages of their career especially those aiming for project management roles in their organizations. As a PRINCE2® certified IT professional, there is a variety of enabling skills and acquired techniques that can be deployed in handling a crisis or enhancing opportunities in projects. Having the PRINCE2® certification is an invaluable asset that improves the career prospects and advancement of such professionals while assisting them to efficiently perform their jobs. It also aids them in creating easy and effective tools that can be used in IT project assessments and audits.

There is a rising demand for PRINCE2® trained project management professionals to manage project teams and successfully execute projects according to best practices in various industry sectors ranging from IT to real estate.

PRINCE2® is widely demanded in all countries across the world and is the preferred choice for project management. This is because its well-crafted framework helps any organization executing projects to achieve exceptional results from start to completion. Also, a certified PRINCE2® person knows, understands and can apply the knowledge of project management gained from the PRINCE2® training and certifications.

No, the PRINCE2® Manual is not included in the course fee.

(You may purchase it here:  https://www.axelos.com/store/book/managing-successful-projects-with-prince2-2017 )

PRINCE2® is often considered to be the better option because of its flexibility, but the decision to choose a particular project management certification depends on a number of factors. These are popularity, company or employers’ requirement, the geographical location, the cost of the exam fee, the salary prospects, job availability and so on. These are factors you should consider. The principles of each certification differ. Therefore, to opt for the better option, consider the above factors and choose the one with an easier application on all projects.

It depends on the geographical factor and the industry you are applying to work for.  However, Asia and Africa are still neutral in terms of preference for both certifications now but it can change in the future.PRINCE2® is of higher demand in the UK, Australia, and Europe while PMP® is of higher demand in the US, Middle East, and Canada . Also, some specific industries incline towards a particular certification. Both are in high demand but preference depends on the industry and geography.

Both PRINCE2® and PMP® certificates are good for the manufacturing sector because they are major project management certifications. Though PRINCE2® is more  IT-focused, its principles, processes, and themes are flexible enough to apply on any category of project. PMP® can be said to be more applicable to the manufacturing sector since it is generic in nature and not project specific, yet both PRINCE2® and PMP® methodologies can be applied to any sector. The certification differs but both have the same goal of helping project managers achieve project success with ease. The approaches, however, are different.

PRINCE2® is fast growing and gaining recognition on a worldwide scale even in New Zealand. PMP is more popular in the US and Canada while PRINCE2® is associated with the UK and Europe. The problem is figuring out which sells in other countries of the world.

Apart from what is prevalent in a country, an organization can also decide to prefer a particular certification above the other because of its attractive features. Before sitting the exam for any project management certification, find what employers and other human resource managers want in that country as well as the preferred choice of the project management system by the hiring company.

PRINCE2® certification is valid for life but your membership status expires after 5 years. A lot of people prefer renewing their membership status by re-registering for the exam. If you’re renewing your membership by sitting for a new exam, you will be given another certificate upon successful completion because your employers will know your knowledge is up to date and will count more on your usefulness. As much as possible, try to renew your membership status every year and get the required CPDs (Continuing Professional Development points).

CPD stands for Continuing Professional Development. Axelos requires that PRINCE2® certified professionals must keep their project management knowledge up-to-date through the acquisition of CPD points. You can earn CPD points through Professional Experience, Training, Community Participation, and Self Study.

Once you have passed the PRINCE2® exam, you can join for Axelos membership. Then, you can keep your Axelos membership for the following three years by submitting 20 CPDs per year.  At the end of the third year, you would have completed 60 CPDs and can apply for PRINCE2® renewal.

Yes! PRINCE2® is valid in India and all over the world. However, due to the region of origin of PRINCE2® and PMP®, there will be a preference in what certification is commonly used. As PMP is US based and widely accepted in US, Canada, Middle East, and Asia, PRINCE2® which is of UK origin is popular and more acceptable in the UK, Europe & Australia. So regardless of the fact that PMP is commonly used in the India region, PRINCE2® is still very much valid.

The governing body of the qualification is usually responsible for the issuance of the PRINCE 2 certificate. In this case, the ownership of the rights to PRINCE2® was transferred from HM Cabinet Office of the United Kingdom to AXELOS Ltd in July 2013. AXELOS being a joint venture between Capita and the Cabinet Office has the authority of issuing the certificates of PRINCE2®. This certification is meant for professionals with little or no experience who seek to understand the principles of successful project management.

This certification was introduced to emphasize the fact that its methods are unique and unbeatable by any other method. It combines both the PRINCE2® method of structure/governance with the benefits of how agile works. Without having prior knowledge of PRINCE2®, this certification can help you work effectively with agile project teams and get the full benefit in terms of the PRINCE2®quality guidance and management. Some of the notable benefits include accessibility to easily deliver agile related projects.

As the certification is globally recognized and incorporates other agile concepts/techniques like Scrum, Cynefin, and Kanban, just like other PRINCE2® certifications, it is fast growing and much sought after.

Yes, there is. PRINCE2® Agile is the world’s most complete agile project management solution, combining the flexibility and responsiveness of agile with the governance of PRINCE2®. It is intended for people working in an Agile project management environment. It’s useful to project teams using Agile who also want a bit of structure and project management practice. PRINCE2® Agile provides structure, governance, and controls when working with agile concepts, methods, and techniques. It is designed to help professionals tailor management controls when working in an agile environment.

Yes, it is worth it for professionals who desire to deliver agile projects, upgrade their knowledge of agile concepts and techniques which includes Scrum, Kanban, Lean Start-up and Cynefin. The rationale behind the PRINCE2® Agile Foundation certification is Axelos’s desire to develop a system that can compete with the already existing system of PMI. It will guide you on how to deliver, manage or work in the confines of agile projects and project teams without necessarily having prior experience of PRINCE2®.

Taking a look at the history of PRINCE2® over the past ten years, it is seen that project managers have taken the PRINCE2® training very seriously because this standard procedure which was made compulsory by the UK government to deliver projects has consistently delivered successful results. Recruiters seek PRINCE2® certified professionals over their non-certified counterparts, as they are found to be conversant with this project management methodology that has proven to be successful across the world.

Yes, it is recognized worldwide. Getting certified in PRINCE2® not only adds to your knowledge but gives higher career opportunities. PRINCE2® certificate holders are highly regarded by many human resource managers seeking professionals in the field of project management. Another reason why PRINCE2® certification is in high demand is its flexibility and easy adaptability to any project in any field. PRINCE2® professionals are sought after in countries like the UK, Australia, and Canada. While some developing countries may be neutral, you may want to find out what certification is popular there before registering for the exam.

With the PRINCE2® certificate on your CV, you can attract job opportunities globally. Since this programme will equip you with the precise skill set you need to enhance your project management core abilities. Renowned international brands are hiring professionals with PRINCE2® certification.

The acquired capabilities in PRINCE2® will equip you to manage any project challenges you encounter and you will be completely confident on what to do. With a PRINCE2® certification on your CV, you will be regarded as an all-around professional. Also, you will be able to work as a Project Manager, Senior Project Manager, and Service Delivery Manager.

It is very easy to get a job with a PRINCE2® certificate in India and other countries of the world by applying to the desired companies and vacancies advertised. While applying for jobs, print the PRINCE2® logo boldly on your resume. PRINCE2® is in high demand by all companies and so having it at a nascent stage in your career is an added advantage. A lot of hiring managers are looking for experience and not just a mere certificate. But, if you are at the entry level, you can still get a job by proving to your employers you have basic knowledge and ability to deliver their projects professionally.

The average salary of PRINCE2® certified professionals ranges from $7500 – $30,000 per annum depending on the position, experience, and educations of these professionals within their organizations. Hence, salaries vary from associate project managers who earn about $6000 per annum to project managers who earn an average of $15,000 per annum while senior project managers with experience spanning 20 years or more earn an average of about $30,000. The salary of PRINCE2® certified professionals in India shows that they earn at least 20% more than their non-certified colleagues who work in the same industry.

Yes, it is in the interest of someone with little or no work experience to get the PRINCE2® credential. The PRINCE2® certification requires no experience and the training is designed to supply such a person with the requisite knowledge of project management. This knowledge helps such a person become a competent project team member.

All an individual needs to get the PRINCE2® is subscribing for the certification starting with the Foundation and then the Practitioner. By completing both, a professional can manage and lead project teams successfully and make sure projects and processes are properly executed.

The PRINCE2® accreditation program is done in various countries around the world and the cost varies according to the region where the training and the examination will be taken. However, the country with the cheapest accreditation program is India. In all its regions from Delhi to other parts, the cost starts from $350 depending on the type of PRINCE2® training and certification as well as if it is focused towards an individual or corporate organization. Other countries have costs that range from $400-$1450 for the different cadres of the certification.

For the PRINCE2® Foundation exam –you need to deposit  $365. The price varies from country to country. For instance, it is £300 - £800 in the UK,  700 Australian dollars in Australia, 25000 INR in India and €450 euros in Europe. The PRINCE2® Practitioner exam costs $485. However, the price also varies in different countries of the world. For instance, it is 21,020 INR in India,  £210 pounds in the UK. Other costs include the training fee, sample exam papers cost, study guide, and membership fees.

Yes, there is an online exam for PRINCE2®. There is a web program called the remote web proctor solution which will give access to take your exams online, using a webcam, microphone, and a stable internet connection. Exams can be scheduled in advance, at a convenient date and time. A proctor will be available to invigilate the exam live. Exams can be taken 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 

The list of exams available via this service is: 

1. PRINCE2® Foundation 
2. PRINCE2® Practitioner 
3. ITIL Intermediate 
4. MoP Foundation.

Yes, you can take the PRINCE2® exam online as long as you’re able to connect through the internet and other requirements like webcam, microphone etc. Even though it is online, provisions will be made for an invigilator after scheduling the date. Exams can also be taken offline through accredited training centers around the world. Since they are not written every day but on certain days, centers are overbooked. You may need to plan your booking ahead since many people will be kept on the waiting list. Depending on your final decision, there is provision for both online and offline examinations.

You can take the PRINCE2® exam online with Peoplecert. With this globally recognized institute, you can sit your exam at your own preferred location provided your system has webcam and internet facility. Peoplecert has developed an exam shield where candidates can be invigilated online through virtual proctoring. Besides being well equipped with the latest technology and tools, Peoplecert is flexible and easily accessible.

The PRINCE2® Foundation certification exam is easy,  it takes about 3-4 hours of study every day for 10-12 days or 1-2 hours daily for 3 weeks. However, be committed and focused to the study hours. The PRINCE2® Practitioner certification exam takes 3-4 hours a day for about 3-4 months or 1-2 hours daily for 4-6 months of study to pass the examination. Ensure that you understand the content and the concepts so you can pass the exam at the first attempt.

PRINCE2® study materials can be found online and offline (training institutions, bookstores etc) There are quite a number of e-learning sites you can visit such as KnowledgeHut. KnowledgeHut is a widely known certified partner of Axelos that trains aspiring PRINCE2® candidates for its various certifications. It combines both theory and practical knowledge of any desired PRINCE2® level to ensure you have the needed tools for after training experiences.

KnowledgeHut study materials are approved by both Peoplecert and Axelos. Apart from the 4 days training, you also get downloadable e-materials and expert tutors at your disposal.

No, there is no mandatory requirement that a student must have or must use the PRINCE2® manual to pass the exams. Course lessons and the manual are considered adequate for tutoring as well as a study using accredited PRINCE2® course study guides. Of course, the PRINCE2® manual contains the necessary information and guidelines that are required to pass the examination. As a plus for anyone looking to self-study, this is the right tool that can be used to ensure preparation.

Yes. The PRINCE2® exam is easier to study for than CAPM because of the difference in study hours. PRINCE2® has both Foundation and Practitioner qualifications. To study for the PRINCE2® Foundation, you need roughly 16 hours of classroom training while the Practitioner will also take 16 hours of classroom training. If you are able to discover an institute that can combine both studies, you will spend around 32 hours studying in a face-to-face or online classroom.

CAPM training requires 23 hours of training. For all the exams you will have to undertake self-study in addition to the training in order to grasp the content well, and the duration of self-study depends on your ability to grasp the subject matter and remember it.

It is possible that you can fail the PRINCE2® certification exams. However, the pass rate for the PRINCE2® course is higher than the failure rate. A minimum of 33/60 is needed to pass the Foundation exam which is about 55 % passing rate. For the Practitioner level, you must score 38/68 or 55% to pass. Some of the reasons for failure are misappropriation of time during exams and lack of adequate preparation. When there is adequate understanding of the themes, appendices, and glossary then you are sure to achieve success.

The cheapest way to do the PRINCE2® exam in the UK is through self-study and online course training. If you have the ability to read on your own and understand basic concepts, then go for it but if you need assistance, it may cost more because it will involve a tutor and classroom training. There are various websites on which you can register at a minimal cost and get access to a whole lot of videos and online materials. A lot of people have used online studying methods and they have passed the exam at their first attempt.

A PRINCE2® exam shield is a software installed in your system to help you write your exams online.  It is a solution known as remote web proctor that comes with the opportunity of writing exams online. With it installed in your system, you can sit the exam without any challenge. You need to check the compatibility of your system with the exam shield by visiting the Peoplecert website. You must also have your identity photos and other credentials like passport and driving license ready. Any software in your system that might affect the smooth functioning of the exam shield should be deactivated or disabled for the period of the exam.

The PRINCE2® Foundation course is an introductory course in PRINCE2® project management specialization. If you’re able to complete this course, you’re sure to have gained enough knowledge regarding the methods to effectively carry out any project within the framework of PRINCE2®.

In addition, you would have familiarized yourself with the basic terminologies and methodologies of the PRINCE2® system. Irrespective of your previous knowledge in project management, you can begin the journey of expertise in project management with the foundation level.

PRINCE2® Foundation qualification is the first level for beginners and those new to the project management field. If you have heard about project management and you are looking forward to gaining some insights into it or wish to develop yourself in that career, you have to begin with this level. Also, in order to have a better understanding of the PRINCE2® system and methodology at advanced levels, you need to start with the PRINCE2® Foundation.

The PRINCE2® Practitioner is an advanced level of qualification for those who want to apply the principles of PRINCE2® to a given project. If you are a current or an aspiring project manager, you need the PRINCE2® Practitioner.

The PRINCE2® Foundation and Practitioner Certification will teach you the project management skills that are widely accepted in the UK and around the world. Gaining these certifications will help you plan, initiate and control projects with a high rate of success by learning to effectively collaborate with stakeholders and team members  and executing the project by dividing it into manageable chunks. The PRINCE2® methodology is unique and working knowledge of its 7 Principles, Processes and Themes as prescribed in the PRINCE2® guideline will help to control use of resources and manage business and project risk effectively.

There are lots of trainers online, but you can choose the best by checking out the following guidelines: 

1. Are they accredited?
2. Do they have an Accredited Examination Center? 
3. Are they are an Accredited Courseware Provider? 
4. Do they have a record of 100% Passing Warranty? 
5. Do they provide easy to understand Course Materials? 
6. Do they provide Classroom + Virtual + Online Training Options.? 
7. Have they been certified Best in Industry Training Delivery Assurance? 
8. Do they have a support system in place even after the program has been completed?

The value of the PRINCE2® Foundation is in the advantage it gives students who want to learn about project management. It also allows people with the PRINCE2® Foundation certification to become informed members of project teams who understand the basics, project management terms and can handle critical matters and responsibilities in their various organizations.

The PRINCE2® Foundation certification is also the best for developing the right skills in project management that are important for career growth and great job prospects. It is easy to pass once a student is well prepared for it.

No, and yes. If you do not have any basic knowledge of project management, you cannot sit the PRINCE2® Practitioner exam. This means you must ideally first study for the PRINCE2® Foundation exam and pass it before proceeding to the Practitioner.

However, it is possible to proceed directly to the PRINCE2® Practitioner exam if you already have some knowledge of project management principles or have any of the following project management certifications:

• PRINCE2® foundation
• Project Management Professional (PMP)
• Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
• Certified Projects Director
• Certified Senior Project Manager
• Certified Project Manager or
• Certified Project Management Associate from IPMA

You must have been a practicing project manager before sitting the PRINCE2® Practitioner exam.

To pass the PRINCE2® Foundation in the first attempt, it is necessary to have and use available resources which include online tutorials and practice questions that prepare students extensively for the examination questions. These resources help students pass at the first attempt of the PRINCE2® Foundation. Prior to using the resources, a student must have gained relevant knowledge about the course within a learning period of no less than 16 hours. The PRINCE2® Foundation also requires that students pay attention to all the instructions given before attempting the questions in the examinations package.

The classroom training course for PRINCE2® foundation takes 2 days before the exam begins on the last day of the training. Candidates can also do personal studies or get involved in distance learning. All trainings are done by accredited training organizations around the world and they fix their varied prices for courses and examinations. If you can dedicate 3 to 4 hours daily for personal study, you can sit the exam and pass it after 12 days. But if you choose to study for just 2 hours per day, you can sit and pass the exam after 3 weeks.

PRINCE2® Foundation certification does not expire. It is only the status as a Registered PRINCE2® Practitioner that has an expiry date. It expires after 5 years of your certification. It is renewable by taking the re-registration exam 3 years after you passed the Practitioner exam. The expiry date is written on the Practitioner certificate. If you fail to write the re-registration exam when due, you will not be allowed to portray yourself as a Registered PRINCE2® Practitioner.

It is possible to undertake self-study for both PRINCE2® Foundation and Practitioner exams if you are very disciplined and work according to planned schedules. It is not enough to be diligent, you must add time management to it. A lot of people stick to a particular timetable that will enable them to cover up what the exam entails. If you are able to read for a certain number of hours per day, you should be able to get yourself ready for the exam within a few weeks. Make sure you have the needed materials or manual for the exam. Also, try and practice past questions and other prep courses.

The PRINCE2® Foundation exam pattern has been updated and is currently structured as multiple choice objective test questions comprising of a total of 60. The pass percentage of the PRINCE2® foundation is 55%. This means that of the 60 questions, 33 must be correctly answered. There are no penalties nor are deductions made for answering questions wrongly. Most of the questions make reference to information from the Managing Successful Projects with PRINCE2® publication, 2017 edition. There are no criteria for eligibility for taking the PRINCE2® Foundation certification exam.

PRINCE2® Foundation exam costs $365. You are expected to sit the exam at a recognized ATO (Accredited Training Organization) or a specified center where you can conveniently write and pass the exam. Regarding the requirements for the Foundation certification, there are little to nothing as the conditions are not so strict. There are actually no conditions for sitting the exam at this level but some centers might require a basic understanding of project management. Since the Foundation level tests basic knowledge, it is not compulsory to have any project management skills.

It is not compulsory for a candidate to undertake any course before sitting PRINCE2® Foundation exam. It is more of a personal choice to be trained in any training institute partnering with Axelos. Candidates can undergo personal studies through deliberate and disciplined study.

For a PRINCE2® Practitioner, you must first have passed the PRINCE2® Foundation exam but there is no such condition or prerequisite for sitting the PRINCE2® Foundation exam. From experience, if you can dedicate 3 to 4 hours daily of personal study, you can sit the exam and pass it after 12 days, and 2 hours of study per day can make you pass the exam within 3 weeks.

The best way is to get enough materials online and set some time aside per day to read. You need to get the manual no matter how old it is. You may decide to get extra help through online trainers but ensure they are certified and accredited with up to date information and training materials. In a similar vein, you can get a lot of practice materials like past questions and get familiar with how the questions are framed and the correct answers. Studying is different from reading, this is why you must discipline yourself and ensure you are adding to your knowledge.

Studying for the PRINCE2® Foundation can be done online through several readily available tutors that are certified educational providers by Axelos; the certification administrators. Firstly, look through search engines for PRINCE2® training providers near you and check several reviews to select the ones that will be the best fit for you. Then, visit their online portals to determine pricing and location, pay and start your classes right away! After your training is completed, schedule your exams as soon as possible and visit online forums where PRINCE2® professionals meet to discuss interesting topics.

The PRINCE2® Foundation exam format is as follows:

• Multiple choice
• 60 questions
• 33 marks required to pass (out of 60 available) - 55%
• 60 minutes duration
• Closed book exam

On clearing the PRINCE2® Practitioner exam, you would receive the PRINCE2® Practitioner Certification from Axelos.

Yes, it is valid for only 3 years after which you have to retake the exam or become a PRINCE2® member. As soon as you pass the PRINCE2® Practitioner exam, you must become a registered member within 3 months and continue to become a member by renewing your membership through a yearly subscription. You must also maintain the digital badge that will be awarded to you upon becoming a member for 3 years. The badge will be extended for renewal on the condition of recording 20 CPD points every year. If these conditions are met, you will be given a new certificate that will last for another 3 years.

You can renew your PRINCE2® Practitioner certification in 2 ways: re-registration for the exam and renewal through membership. For the first option, after 3 years of sitting and passing the Practitioner exam, you can re-register for the exam to re-sit it. The exam is similar to the normal one.

The second option is becoming a member of Axelos, and this is far easier. After passing the PRINCE2® exam, you register to become a member of Axelos and renew the membership status every year for 3 years. Each year, you must accumulate 20 CPDs which will give you 60 CPDs at the end of 3 years.

Both these certifications operate at different levels. While a PRINCE2® Practitioner is geared towards project management level, Scrum Master leans more towards Agile product delivery level. They are not related. However, if your intention is to focus on project management, then focus on the PRINCE2® Practitioner.

If ScrumMaster is related to your job role, go for it. The choice depends on your present and future career prospects. If you are planning to join a Scrum team in the future, you can add the certification to your plans. Scrum certifications are related to the Agile methodology of project management, while the PRINCE2® Foundation and Practitioner are based on the waterfall method. Axelos has now introduced PRINCE2® Agile, that combines the flexibility and responsiveness of agile with the governance of PRINCE2®.

The PRINCE2® Practitioner exam is an exam designed for professionals who want to have the PRINCE2® Practitioner certification. It is of 150-minute exam duration. It has 68 questions and you need to pass 38/68 to get the required 55% pass mark. It is also an open book exam i.e. you are allowed to use the official PRINCE2® manual. Before you can sit for this exam, you need to provide a proof of passing one of the following exams: PRINCE2® Foundation, PMP®, CAPM, and IPMA level A, B, C, or D.

The pass rate for PRINCE2® Practitioner exam is 55%. There are 9 questions on each paper and each question carries 12 marks. To get the required 55%, you need to get 59 out of 108 marks in 21/2 hours i.e. 150-minute exam duration. The exam is also an open book exam i.e. you are allowed to use the official PRINCE2® manual. If you want to pass the exam, aim to get 100% of the 108 marks. It is possible! All you need is to devote more time to studies.

The PRINCE2® Practitioner exam lasts for 2 hours 30 minutes. To pass the PRINCE2® Practitioner exam (case study based), you must score 38 or more (out of 68 available) and get the required 55% score. Employers look forward to hiring practitioners as the certificate is well recognized by major industries.

For a classroom course, the practitioner exam is 2 days including the duration of training and the exam. The exam, just like other professional exams, is usually difficult but if you’re able to harness all available resources and practice well, you will pass.

The PRINCE2® Practitioner exam format is as follows:

• Objective testing
• 38 marks or more required to pass (out of 68 available) - 55%
• Two-and-a-half hours (150 minutes) duration, no additional reading time
• Open book exam (official PRINCE2®manual only)

You can do so, however it is not advisable that you sit for the exam without going through the training first. More so the training is usually part of the package in acquiring the certification and it is not going to take much of your time. Most providers offer it in 4-5 days. It will give you the prerequisite knowledge, tips and practice you need to pass the exam at the first attempt.

The best institute known to offer premium and effective PRINCE2® training in India through a network of training providers is PeopleCert. The network of Peoplecert accredited training providers deliver accredited training through various learning options from self-paced learning, classroom learning to online training. It is highly rated among the other institutes in the different regions in India.

Their course objectives help to understand the various processes, principles, and specified theories as outlined in the PRINCE2® project management framework. There is also the opportunity to practice the knowledge gained in the PRINCE2® project management processes with the creation of real-life scenarios as simulated in the classroom or through online tutorials.

Pre-course work for PRINCE2® training is not necessary especially if you are going to undergo the Foundation course. However, if you don’t have prior knowledge of PRINCE2®, it will help you. A pre-course will help you to understand PRINCE2® more. You will know how a PRINCE2® project works and the interdependency between the different stages. You will learn how to create project documents such as a Business case and how the project board manages projects through the stages, reports, and tolerance.

No, it is inadequate to gain PRINCE2® training alone. This is because the PRINCE2® training without any of its certifications is not enough to equip a person to become a capable project management professional. While the PRINCE2® training is popular and exposes students to the basic and advanced levels of project management, the PRINCE2®Foundation, Practitioner and Professional certifications make sure this knowledge is applied in public and private project scenarios that are simulated in the certification examinations. The PRINCE2®certifications also help to develop students’ problem-solving skills in dealing with threats that may negatively affect most projects.

KnowledgeHut is a known certified partner of Axelos that trains aspiring PRINCE2® candidates for its various certifications. It combines both theory and practical knowledge of any desired PRINCE2® level together to ensure you have the needed tools for the real world.

KnowledgeHut offers a high standard of training and all their course materials are approved by both Peoplecert and Axelos. Enrolling with them implies full coverage as you can be sure of being in safe hands.

Aside from the 4 days training, you also get 32PDUs, downloadable e-materials, the joint fee for both PRINCE2® level exams; PRINCE2® Foundation and PRINCE2® Practitioner, and expert tutors at your disposal.

This course will be beneficial to

• Product Managers, Program and Portfolio Managers, Business Project Managers
• Engineering leads
• Business Analysts
• Anyone who wishes to get PRINCE2® certified

There are different PRINCE2® certification courses online, such as the one offered by KnowledgeHut. It combines both theory and practical knowledge of any desired PRINCE2® level together to ensure you have the needed tools to pass the certification exams.

KnowledgeHut operates on a high standard and all their course materials are approved by both Peoplecert and Axelos. Enrolling with them implies full coverage of the exam material and you can be sure that you are receiving quality training and support.

Apart from the 4 days training, you also get 32 PDUs, downloadable e-materials, the joint fee for both PRINCE2® level exams(PRINCE2® Foundation and PRINCE2® Practitioner), and expert tutors at your disposal.

You will get 32 PDUs on completing the PRINCE2® Foundation and Practitioner training.

PDUs are credits awarded by the Project Management Institute(PMI). They recognize your dedication to the Project Management world through the award of credits for every educational effort you make throughout your career.  Every PMI certification, except the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), requires you to earn a specific number of PDUs per three-year certification cycle. 

The PRINCE2® methodology is not industry or project specific and can be applied to any project across industries and organizations. Originally developed by the Office of Government Commerce in the UK but is much valued across the world because of its flexibility, practicality and scalability. Becoming PRINCE2® certified will greatly enhance your career prospects and your earning potential too!

PRINCE2® (Projects In Controlled Environments) is a widely recognized project management method. It stipulates that projects should be divided into manageable and controllable parts. A project must be well planned before the commencement, it must be controlled and then when it ends, it must be tidied up.

PRINCE2® has seven principles, seven themes, and seven processes. It was created by the UK Government as a standard for information systems projects. However, it is acceptable and recognized in different parts of the world.

The PRINCE2® project management course, also known in full as Projects in Controlled Environments’ certification, is a project management course. It provides a systematic guideline when delivering any project through its professional processes, steps, and templates.

The certification has 2 major foci; process as well as project.  As a best practice qualification that is part of the Axelos portfolio, its principles can be implemented on any kind of project. Its approach to project management is unique in terms of standardized and well-spelled out approaches. The roles/responsibilities of each team member regarding tasks to be carried out are well delineated.

Certifications for project management are qualifications that help in adding value to the credentials of Project Managers and make them certified. Examples of these are: Mastering Digital Project Management (MDPM), Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), CompTIA Project+, PRINCE2® Foundation & PRINCE2® Practitioner, Associate in Project Management (APM), Certified Project Director (CPD), Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), Professional Scrum Master I, II & III.

There are also many other project management certifications apart from those mentioned above.

The following are some of the advantages of using formal project management methods:

• They are proven practices for controlling human, financial and other physical resources. 
• It helps to increase and cause improvements in terms of customer relations. 
• It promotes and enhances higher profit for the management. 
• It minimises time-to-market, as it increases quality development within a short time. 
• It helps to increase and record sustainable productivity with outstanding improvements in quality and customer satisfaction. 
• Apart from boosting the morale of team members, it reduces stress to the barest minimum. 
• There are far better coordination and collaboration between the management, teams, and stakeholders.

PRINCE2® obtains its methods from the 7 principles. They are: 

1. Continued Business Justification 
2. Learn from Experience 
3. Defined Roles and Responsibilities 
4. Manage by Stages  
5. Manage by Exception  
6. Focus on Products  
7. Tailor to Suit the Project Environment

These principles are the model for good practice in project management. A good understanding of these 7 principles will help you keep your projects on course and ensure that you follow best practices throughout the stages of projects.

PRINCE2® is made up of structured tasks to achieve specific goals and to complete projects successfully. 

The 7 processes of PRINCE2® are :

1. Starting Up a project (SU) 
2. Initiating a project (IP) 
3. Directing a project (DP) 
4. Controlling a Stage (CS)  
5. Managing Product Delivery (MP) 
6. Managing Stage Boundaries(SB)  
7. Closing a project (CP)

These processes enable projects to be thoroughly managed in a scalable way. They are the machinery that drives projects to completion.