As we move into 2025, the PMI-ACP exam has undergone significant updates. Whether you’re planning to take the exam soon or already in the midst of preparation, it’s essential to understand these changes so you can align your study efforts with the updated exam structure.

In this blog post, we’ll walk through the key changes to the PMI-ACP® exam, including adjustments to the exam domains, training and experience requirements, and other crucial updates that will impact your preparation.

1. Streamlined Exam Domains

Previously, the PMI-ACP exam was divided into seven domains, but now the exam has been simplified into four core domains:

• Mindset

• Leadership

• Product

• Delivery

This change helps focus on the essential agile practices and mindset needed in today’s fast-paced project environments. By consolidating the domains, PMI® is ensuring the exam is more relevant to current agile trends and emphasizes critical competencies in a more concise manner.

As you prepare, it’s important to review these domains thoroughly, as they encompass broader knowledge and skills that agile professionals must demonstrate.

2. Increased Training Hours

For those planning to earn the PMI-ACP® certification, the required 28 hours of formal agile training (contact hours) is an important change. Previously, 21 hours of training were sufficient, but the updated requirement ensures that candidates have a deeper understanding of agile methodologies.

If you’ve already started your journey, don’t worry – PMI® still accept the 21-hour requirement until March 31, 2025. After this date, the new 28-hour training requirement will be mandatory, so plan accordingly.

3. New Experience Requirements

The experience requirement for the PMI-ACP exam has also been adjusted. Candidates now need 2 years (24 months) of agile project experience within the past 5 years. This change ensures that applicants have a more substantial, up-to-date background in agile practices, making them better equipped to succeed in the exam and their careers.

For those with a third-party agile certification or who have completed a PMI® Global Accreditation Center (GAC) program, are pre-approved to fulfill this requirement. This provides a pathway for those who have already demonstrated proficiency in agile methodologies to meet the eligibility criteria.

4. Exam Format: Scenario-Based Questions

Another critical update is the shift to more scenario-based questions. Previously, the exam contained a mix of theoretical and practical questions. Now, the emphasis is on assessing how well you can apply agile practices in real-world scenarios.

The exam will still consist of 120 questions and last 3 hours, but candidates will now encounter more questions that challenge them to solve problems and make decisions in agile environments. Preparing for this shift means focusing not only on definitions but also on how to apply agile principles effectively in various situations.

5. Professional Development Units (PDUs) Remain Unchanged

Once you obtain your PMI-ACP® certification, maintaining it requires 30 PDUs every 3 years. This requirement remains consistent, ensuring that certified professionals continue to expand their agile knowledge and stay up-to-date with industry trends.

6. No Change in Exam Fees

The exam fee remains the same: $435 for PMI® members and $495 for non-members. If you’re not already a PMI® member, you might want to consider joining, as membership offers benefits such as discounted exam fees and access to a wealth of resources for exam preparation.

How to Prepare for the Updated PMI-ACP® Exam

With the new changes in place, here’s how you can effectively prepare for the updated exam:

• Review the Exam Content Outline (ECO): The ECO will give you the most up-to-date information on what will be covered in the exam. It’s crucial to align your studies with the new exam structure.

• Complete the Required Training Hours: If you haven’t already completed the 28 hours of formal agile training, consider enrolling in a course that meets the new requirements.

• Evaluate Your Agile Experience: Ensure that your agile project experience aligns with the updated requirements. If you need to meet the 2-year experience requirement, consider ways to gain additional experience or leverage other certifications to meet the criteria.

• Practice with Scenario-Based Questions: Since the exam now focuses on real-world application, it’s important to practice with scenario-based questions. Look for resources or mock exams that replicate the new format to help you get familiar with the types of questions you’ll face.

Conclusion

The updates to the PMI-ACP exam reflect the evolving needs of the agile community and the increasing importance of practical, hands-on experience in agile environments. By understanding the changes and preparing accordingly, you can ensure you’re well-equipped to succeed in obtaining your certification.

Whether you’re just beginning your preparation or are ready to take the exam, make sure you stay up-to-date with the latest requirements and exam format. Good luck on your PMI-ACP® journey!