TOPIC: PMP application examples

I'm working on my PMP application and feeling stuck on how to document overlapping projects and training hours. One project ended in March, the next started in February. Does that mean separate entries or combine them somehow? Another confuson is how to describe roles and responsibilites so they match what PMI looks for without repeating the same info. It would be *SO* helpful if anyone could share a quick example or screenshot of how they approched this. Also not totally clear on whether each training session needs a seperate line. Tips & examples would be amazing. Thanx. Sora

Hello Sora,

Tey not to overthink it. From what I remember, you just input the time into the application and the PMI website will automatically do the math for overlaps. You can't overlap time even if you had five projects at once.

For the second question; you can either separate them or combine them. I only separated them if they were very different from each other. Audits are random. You should be fine as long as you don't lie.

Hi Sora - It is very important to note that PMI adheres to the policies outlined in the PMI Certifications Handbook and requires that all individuals who are interested in applying for the PMP exam read the handbook prior to completing the application. The information you include within the PMP Application allows PMI to determine if you have the necessary experience and education to qualify for the PMP certification. Consider these guidelines and tips to help set yourself up for success when completing the application.

1) Describe your project experience: During the application process, you will be required to individually detail each project you managed professionally. In your description, you should include:
- A brief, one-sentence Project Objective. If you can include specific metrics within your objectives it helps (see examples below).
- A brief, one-sentence Project Outcome or Expected Outcome. If you can include specific metrics within your objectives it helps (see examples below).
- Project deliverables summarized by Process Groups (Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring & Controlling, and Closing). Acceptable abbreviations are; : IN, PL, EX, MC & CL)

2) Project Description Example – Predictive/Waterfall
Project Objective: Developed and updated Online Order Processing App to decrease order cycle time
Project Outcome: Delivered software app resulting in 28% decreased cycle time in the first month
IN-Identified stakeholders, developed project charter
PL-Created WBS, initial schedule & budget, initial quality management & resource management plans
EX-Directed cross-functional team, implemented Quality Plan, conducted procurements, and managed training efforts
MC-Measured scope, schedule & cost baseline performance, controlled risks, and ensured quality standard conformance
CL-Closed contracts, obtained customer acceptance, delivered the final product

3) Project Description Example: Adaptive/Agile
Develop and update Online Order Processing App to decrease order cycle time
Delivered software app resulting in a 28% decreased cycle time in the 1st month
IN-Identified stakeholders, created Project Charter and Milestone Schedule
PL- Created Product Roadmap, Release Plan & Product Backlog
EX-Trained all agile team members, facilitated all iteration ceremonies, removed project team impediments, helped Product Owner with backlog refinements
MC-Performed variance analysis on scope, schedule, and costs, created and distributed agile project reports, delivered iteration components to customer
CL-Closed contracts, obtained customer acceptance, delivered the final product

4) Confirm your project management education. At least 35 hours of formal project management education is necessary to qualify for the PMP. Note: Taking a PMP Exam Prep Course will satisfy the 35 Education Contact Hours

5) Ready to Apply? - Additional information regarding the application requirements and role definition can be found in the PMP Exam Content Outline and Things to Consider When Applying. While the application isn’t long, it is important to take your time to include all required information and to complete the application accurately. You can always log back into the application to complete and submit it at a later date. I also recommend saving a PDF copy of your application as you are filling it out as well as right before you are going to submit it.

Happy Studying!

Sora - We have an article “How to Fill in the PMP Application” which also includes PMP Application Examples that you can use. I recommend reviewing it and using it as a guide, along with the excellent details Kevin already shared.

But here are the briefest of explanations two your concerns:

• Overlapping projects can be listed separately so long as each one clearly outlines its own scope and time frame.
• When logging training hours, just ensure each course meets PMI’s formal education criteria and is accurately recorded.

Hope that helps.