PMP Exam Cost: The Full Breakdown for 2025
From PMI membership and exam fees to study materials and retake costs, here is everything you need to budget for your PMP certification — and how to keep the total as low as possible.
$405
Exam fee for PMI members
$555
Exam fee for non-members
$275
Member retake fee
PMI Exam Fees
The PMP exam fee is $405 for PMI members and $555 for non-members. PMI membership costs $139 per year. If you plan to take the exam, purchasing PMI membership first saves you $11 net ($555 − $405 − $139 = $11 savings), and gives you a year of access to PMI resources, digital PMBOK 8, and PDU opportunities for renewal.
Retake Costs
You have 3 attempts within your 1-year eligibility period. The retake fee is $275 for PMI members and $375 for non-members. If you exhaust all 3 attempts or your year expires, you must reapply and pay the full exam fee again. This makes preparation investment worthwhile — studying thoroughly costs far less than a retake.
Study and Preparation Costs
Many candidates spend $500–$1,500 on study materials: online courses ($200–$600), question banks ($50–$200), and study guides ($30–$80). PMPRocket provides free PMBOK 8-aligned study guides, practice questions, and a full mock exam at no cost, significantly reducing preparation expenses. The 35-hour education requirement is the main non-optional cost — budget $200–$400 for an accredited course.
Total PMP Investment
A typical total PMP investment ranges from $900 to $2,500 depending on how much you spend on study materials. At minimum (PMI member, PMPRocket for free prep, inexpensive 35-hour course): approximately $700–$900. At maximum (non-member, premium courses, retake): $2,000–$2,500. The credential typically pays back within months of a new role or raise.
Is There Financial Assistance?
PMI offers scholarship and financial support programs through the PMI Educational Foundation. Some employers reimburse PMP exam costs as professional development. Government and military programs may also offer funding. Check with your employer's HR or L&D team before paying out of pocket — employer sponsorship is common for PMP candidates in large organizations.
PMP Exam Cost: Frequently Asked Questions
Does PMI membership reduce the PMP exam cost?
Yes. PMI members pay $405 versus $555 for non-members — a $150 saving on the exam. Since membership costs $139/year, the net saving after membership is $11, plus you get access to PMI resources and digital PMBOK 8.
Can I reschedule my PMP exam for free?
Yes, if you reschedule at least 2 business days before your appointment. Last-minute changes (within 2 days) incur a $70 rescheduling fee. Cancellations within 2 days are not refunded.
What happens if I fail — do I pay again?
Yes. Each attempt after the first has a retake fee: $275 for members, $375 for non-members. You have 3 attempts within your 1-year eligibility window before reapplying.
Are study materials included in the PMP exam fee?
No. The exam fee only covers the exam itself. Study materials, courses, and the 35-hour education requirement are separate costs. PMPRocket provides free practice questions, study guides, and mock exams.
Is PMP more expensive than other certifications?
PMP is mid-range for professional certifications. AWS certifications cost $150–$400. CISSP is $749. CFA is significantly more expensive across three levels. Given the salary premium PMP delivers, most candidates consider the ROI strong.
Reduce your prep costs with free PMPRocket resources
PMPRocket offers free PMBOK 8 practice questions and a full timed mock exam. No sign-up, no cost — just focused PMP prep.