The APM Project Management Qualification Online Learning (APM PMQ) is a qualification from the Association for Project Management (APM). It is designed for project managers who have at least two years experience of project management. The primary purpose of the learning is to ensure that delegates have sufficient knowledge and understanding to successfully complete the APM Project Management Qualification three-hour, closed book, examination.

The course covers the 24 topics aligned to the APM Competence Framework included in the APM Project Management Qualification handbook.

The Association for Project Management has announced its new exam format for the Project Management Qualification (PMQ) that will launch from September 2024. This means there are a few changes to the syllabus. Although primarily, the qualification will continue to be based on the BoK7, there are some notable additional topics included that align with the APM Competence Framework. New syllabus from September 2024 will include:

• Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
• Sustainability
• Ethics, Compliance and Professionalism
• Transition Management

The learning focuses on providing knowledge, principles and best practices in project management and includes exam preparation. The APM Project Management Qualification assesses the candidate’s breadth of knowledge in all areas of project management, from strategic and commercial implications, to the technical, organisational, and people management skills required to participate effectively within a project team.

The online learning is made up of a combination of learning bytes which are narrated by experts, practice questions, flash cards and other learning games, including case studies together with access to CITI’s online study guide.

We recommend that when you have completed at least 35 to 50 hours of distance learning you can consider booking your APM examination.

However, different people have different learning styles and speeds, so we will not push you to take the APM examination on any given date – or impose cut-off dates on the distance learning (please refer to item 1.11 of our Terms & Conditions). We have found this to increase delegate stress levels and negatively affect pass rates.

The examination is quite demanding and a lack of effort and commitment on the part of the learner will result in failure to gain the accreditation. We strongly recommend that each individual carefully plans their learning and sets themselves achievable milestones to ensure that they keep on track. Wherever possible, having a work colleague or mentor (preferably the individual’s line manager) to discuss progress at regular intervals is beneficial.

The new format examination from September 2024 will focus wholeheartedly on the assessment of a candidate’s project management knowledge through four new
question types that are designed to be accessible and to minimise barriers particularly for neurodiverse candidates. The structure of the exam will be made up of a combination of:

• 20 x multiple choice
• 10 x long response
• 5 x list response
• 5 x short response questions.

 There will be a maximum of 90 marks available and the pass mark will be dependent on the difficulty level of the questions set.

For the examination you will need:

• a computer/laptop (with webcam and microphone),

• smartphone or tablet with camera,

• ID verification documents (either a passport or driving licence) 

• strong internet connection. Prior to taking the examination, you will need to check that your internet and PING speed meet the recommended minimum requirements.