Josh, thank you for your emails every day. They keep me on track. There are conflicting information about what it takes to pass the PMP exam. I have read 61%, 65% and I’ve heard you must pass each of the 5 knowledge areas?
It’s hard to study, but curious – is this really what anyone knows?
-Betty
This question was a reply to a PMP Guide newsletter message.
It’s a valid question and one that is worth asking. If you have been wondering about this, please don’t be offended.
Here are the reasons you shouldn’t care
The PMI no longer publishes a passing score. Many bloggers and training providers have tried to figure out what a passing score is from different factors. I won’t do that, as I can’t support any number of numbers with data.
When I took my exam, there was a published passing score. But it didn’t matter to me what it was. As in school, I didn’t care about the passing score for an exam or class. My goal is to do everything right. Even if you don’t achieve that goal, it’s the best way for you to get the most out of the process by learning as much as possible.
Aim For Mastery
If I was taking the PMP exam again, I would want to score 95% or higher on practice exams on a regular basis before sitting for the actual thing. Or, I would rather not use scores as a baseline. I want to be extremely confident because I know the PMI standard like the backs of my hands. Because mastery is my goal, not passing.
This is just my opinion. I recommend that you also take this stance. It will propel you to excellence and mastery, not just a passing score. How much effort you put in will determine how successful your learning journey, whether it is for a degree or certification. The more you put in, you will get out.
I welcome comments and follow-up questions.
If you are interested in more information about the scoring, here are some excerpts from PMP Handbook.
PMP Handbook, page 17 (sourced August 10, 2011).
PMP Handbook Page 29 – Sourced August 10, 2011,
