PRINCE2 FAQs
Welcome to our PRINCE2 Frequently Asked Questions page. Here you'll find comprehensive answers to the most common questions about PRINCE2 certifications. Whether you're new to project management or looking to advance your existing skills, this resource will help you understand the certification pathway and what to expect at each level. We've organised these FAQs into two main sections covering both the Foundation and Practitioner certifications to help you make informed decisions about your professional development journey.
PRINCE2 Foundation
The PRINCE2 Foundation certification represents your first step into the PRINCE2 methodology. This entry-level qualification establishes your understanding of the fundamental principles, themes, and processes of PRINCE2.
The following frequently asked questions cover everything you need to know about starting your PRINCE2 journey, from course requirements and exam formats to study materials and certification benefits.
The PRINCE2 Foundation course is an entry-level certification that introduces the PRINCE2 project management methodology. It provides a fundamental understanding of the PRINCE2 principles, themes, and processes used to manage projects effectively. This certification is internationally recognised and widely used across industries.
The course is suitable for:
- Project team members and aspiring project managers
- Professionals looking to enter project management
- Current project managers seeking formal certification
- Business analysts and team leaders
- Anyone involved in project work who needs to understand PRINCE2 methodology
No formal prerequisites are required for the PRINCE2 Foundation course. However, basic project management experience or knowledge is beneficial. The course is designed to be accessible to beginners while still valuable for experienced professionals.
The exam format includes:
- 60 multiple-choice questions
- 60 minutes duration
- Closed book examination
- Questions based on scenario-based situations
- No negative marking for wrong answers
Yes, the Foundation exam can be taken online through authorised examination institutes. You'll need:
- A quiet, private location
- Stable internet connection
- Webcam for proctoring
- Valid ID for verification
- Computer meeting technical requirements
Yes, successful candidates receive an official digital certificate from AXELOS (the examining body). The certificate is internationally recognized and can be verified online by employers.
Key benefits include:
- Enhanced career prospects in project management
- Internationally recognised qualification
- Common language and approach to project management
- Increased confidence in managing projects
- Better understanding of project roles and responsibilities
- Foundation for advanced project management certifications
- Improved project success rates through structured methodology
The standard course duration is typically:
- 16-20 hours for self-paced online learning
- Additional 20-30 hours recommended for self-study and exam preparation
The syllabus covers:
- Introduction
- Overview of PRINCE2® Project Management
- People
- Organising
- Starting Up a Project
- Business Case
- Plans
- Quality
- Risk
- Controlling a Stage & Managing Product Delivery
- Managing a Stage Boundary
- Issues
- Progress
- Closing a Project
- Directing a Project
- Course Review
- Internal Assessment
- Documents
The Foundation exam is designed to test basic understanding rather than advanced application. With proper preparation and study, most candidates find it manageable. The questions are straightforward and focus on testing knowledge rather than complex problem-solving.
Effective preparation includes:
- Attending all training sessions (classroom or virtual)
- Reading the official PRINCE2 manual
- Taking practice exams Using provided study materials
- Creating study notes and mind maps
- Focusing on understanding key concepts rather than memorisation
The pass mark is 33 correct answers out of 60 questions (55%). This threshold ensures candidates have a solid grasp of PRINCE2 fundamentals while being achievable with proper preparation.
The PRINCE2 Foundation certification never expires. However, it's recommended to stay updated with current project management practices and consider advancing to the Practitioner level for professional growth.
Yes, you can proceed to the Practitioner level immediately after passing the Foundation exam. In fact, many training providers offer combined Foundation and Practitioner courses. The Foundation certification is a prerequisite for the Practitioner exam.
PRINCE2 Practitioner
Building on the Foundation level, the PRINCE2 Practitioner certification demonstrates your ability to apply PRINCE2 principles in real-world scenarios. This advanced qualification is designed for professionals ready to take their project management expertise to the next level.
The questions in this section address the more complex aspects of PRINCE2, including practical application, advanced exam preparation, and professional development opportunities available to certified PRINCE2 Practitioners.
The PRINCE2 Practitioner course is an advanced-level certification that builds on Foundation knowledge to teach the practical application of PRINCE2 methodology. It focuses on tailoring PRINCE2 principles to real-world project scenarios and demonstrates your ability to implement the methodology in complex project environments.
The course is ideal for:
- Experienced project managers seeking advanced certification
- Foundation certificate holders looking to progress their careers
- Program managers and project directors
- Senior team members involved in project delivery
- Professionals who need to demonstrate expertise in applying PRINCE2 methodology
You must have one of the following to take the Practitioner exam:
- PRINCE2® 7 (Foundation)
- PRINCE2® 6th Edition (Foundation or Practitioner)
- PRINCE2® 5th Edition (Foundation or Practitioner)
- Project Management Qualification (PMQ)*
- Project Professional Qualification (PPQ)*
- Project Management Professional (PMP)**
- Project Management Professional (PMP)®**
- Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)**
- IPMA Level A® (Certified Projects Director)***
- IPMA Level B® (Certified Senior Project Manager)***
- IPMA Level C® (Certified Project Manager)***
- IPMA Level D® (Certified Project Management Associate)***
*‘PMQ and PPQ’ are registered marks of the Association for Project Management
*‘PMQ’ is a registered mark of the Association for Project Management.
**'PMP and CAPM' are registered marks of the Project Management Institute, Inc.
***‘IPMA Level A/B/C/D’ are registered trademarks of the International Project Management Association.
APM, PMI and IPMA are not affiliated with Axelos, nor do they endorse any Axelos qualifications.
Key differences include:
- Focus on application rather than theory
- Emphasis on tailoring PRINCE2 to different project contexts
- More complex scenario-based learning
- Higher-level analytical and decision-making skills
- Practical implementation of PRINCE2 principles
- Advanced examination format with scenario-based questions
Typical durations are:
- 2-3 days for classroom training
- 20-25 hours for self-paced online learning
- Additional 25-30 hours recommended for exam preparation
- Combined Foundation and Practitioner courses typically take 5 days
The exam format includes:
- 68 questions in objective testing format
- 150 minutes (2.5 hours) duration
- 38 marks required to pass (approximately 55%)
- Scenario-based questions Open book (official PRINCE2 manual only)
The syllabus covers advanced application of:
- Learner Resources
- Module 1 - Introduction
- Module 2 - Preparing for Success
- Module 3 - Workshop 1 - Principles
- Module 3 - Workshop 1 - People
- Module 3 - Workshop 1 - Organising
- Module 4 - Workshop 2 - Business Case
- Module 4 - Workshop 2 - Starting Up a Project
- Module 4 - Workshop 2 - Initiating a Project
- Module 4 - Workshop 2 - Directing a Project
- Module 5 - Workshop 3 - Plans
- Module 5 - Workshop 3 - Quality
- Module 5 - Workshop 3 - Risk
- Module 5 - Workshop 3 - Issues
- Module 5 - Workshop 3 - Progress
- Module 5 - Workshop 3 - Controlling a Stage
- Module 5 - Workshop 3 - Managing Product Delivery
- Module 5 - Workshop 3 - Managing a Stage Boundary
- Module 5 - Workshop 3 - Closing a Project
- Module 6 - Sample Paper
- Module 7 - Exam Prep & Tips
- Module 8 - Course Review
The pass mark is 38 marks out of 68 possible marks (approximately 55%). This higher threshold ensures that successful candidates can effectively apply PRINCE2 principles in practice.
Recommended preparation includes:
- Thorough review of the PRINCE2 manual
- Practice with sample exam questions
- Study of real-world case studies
- Participation in workshop exercises
- Focus on applying PRINCE2 to different scenarios
- Time management practice for exam conditions
- Understanding how to use the manual during the exam
Yes, it is an open-book examination. However:
- Only the official PRINCE2 manual is allowed
- No other materials are permitted
- The manual cannot contain any additional notes or annotations
- Tabs and highlighting are allowed
- Electronic versions are not permitted
Yes, you can take the exam online through authorised examination institutes. Requirements include:
- Secure and quiet environment
- Reliable internet connection
- Webcam for remote proctoring
- Valid ID for verification
- Physical copy of the PRINCE2 manual
- System compatibility check before the exam
The PRINCE2 Practitioner certification is valid for three years from the date of examination. After this period, you need to maintain your certification through renewal.
Yes, to maintain your Practitioner status, you must either:
- Retake the Practitioner exam every three years, or
- Join AXELOS membership program and earn CPD points
- Complete digital badges and continuing professional development activities
- Maintain current knowledge of PRINCE2 updates and best practices
Benefits include:
- Enhanced career prospects and earning potential
- Recognition as an advanced project management professional
- Ability to manage complex projects effectively
- Increased credibility with employers and clients
- Access to senior project management roles
- Global recognition of your expertise
- Competitive advantage in the job market
Watch Video
What is PRINCE2?
PRINCE2 is like a special recipe book that helps people manage big projects. Just like how you follow steps to build with LEGO, PRINCE2 gives project managers steps to follow when they're working on important jobs at work. It helps them organise tasks, work with teams, and make sure everything gets done properly and on time.
Leading Project Method
Globally Recognised
Project Management Careers
Monthly Updates
From our Blog
Discover how to become a project manager in the UK on our blog—explore proven methodologies, industry best practices, and expert guidance to elevate your project leadership skills.
