You can take the PRINCE2 exam at official exam centers throughout the Netherlands, or online via proctoring. The exams are administered by PeopleCert, the official exam body for PRINCE2. You can choose between an exam at an Accredited Training Organization (ATO), an accredited exam center, or at home via online proctoring. Each option has advantages and disadvantages in terms of flexibility, travel time and exam environment. The right choice depends on your personal preference and circumstances.
Where can you take the PRINCE2 exam?
PRINCE2 (PROjects IN Controlled Environments) is a globally recognized project management method that provides a structure for successfully executing projects. A PRINCE2 certification is valuable because it validates your project management skills and enhances your career opportunities.
There are several ways to take the PRINCE2 exam:
- Via a Accredited Training Organization (ATO) – These are training institutes that are accredited to give PRINCE2 training and to take exams. After a training you can often take the exam directly.
- At authorized examination centers – These centers only offer the opportunity to take exams, without training.
- Through which channels you reach those people, classic and out of the box. online proctoring – You take the exam at home on your own computer, under the supervision of an online proctor.
Most candidates choose to take their exam immediately after a PRINCE2 to do training, because the material is still fresh in your memory.
What are the official exam locations for PRINCE2?
In the Netherlands there are several recognized examination centers where you can take the PRINCE2 exam. PeopleCert, the official examination body for PRINCE2, works together with several partners who are allowed to take exams.
Exam locations can be found in, among others:
- Amsterdam
- Rotterdam
- Utrecht
- Eindhoven
- The Hague
- Groningen
To find an exam location near you, it is best to consult the PeopleCert website or contact an ATO. They will be able to tell you what locations are available and when exams are held.
In addition to PeopleCert, there are other organisations such as APMG International that offer PRINCE2 exams, but PeopleCert is currently the main examination body for PRINCE2.
Can you take the PRINCE2 exam online?
Yes, you can take the PRINCE2 exam completely online take the exam via online proctoring. This is a flexible option that is becoming increasingly popular, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic.
For an online exam you need:
- A computer with a webcam and microphone
- A stable internet connection
- A quiet, well-lit space where you can work undisturbed
- A valid ID
Advantages of online exams are the flexibility (you can take the exam 24/7) and the convenience (no travel time). Disadvantages are that you have to provide a suitable environment yourself and that technical problems can occur.
Compared to in-person exams, online proctoring offers more flexibility, but some people experience more stress from webcam proctoring or feel more comfortable in a formal exam environment.
How do you prepare for the PRINCE2 exam?
Good preparation is essential for passing your PRINCE2 exam. Here are some practical tips:
- Take a training – An official PRINCE2 training not only gives you the knowledge, but also insight into how the exam questions are structured.
- Study the manual – Make sure you read the official PRINCE2 manual carefully.
- Take practice exams – This will help you get familiar with the type of questions and the time pressure.
- Use flashcards – Useful for learning terminology and processes.
- Form a study group – Discussing the material with others can help you understand concepts better.
For the Foundation exam it is important that you know the basic concepts and principles. For the Practitioner exam you must be able to apply this knowledge in practical situations. Therefore, pay extra attention to case studies when preparing for the Practitioner exam.
What are the costs of the PRINCE2 exam?
The cost of the PRINCE2 exam varies depending on several factors. Here is a general overview:
- Foundation exam: approximately €200 – €300
- Practitioner exam: approximately €350 – €450
- Combination voucher (Foundation + Practitioner): approximately €500 – €600
These prices are excluding training. If you book a complete training including exam, the costs are higher:
- Foundation training + exam: approximately €1.000 – €1.400
- Practitioner training + exam: approximately €1.200 – €1.600
- Complete training (Foundation + Practitioner): approximately €2.000 – €2.500
There is usually no price difference between online and physical exams. However, a resit may be cheaper than the first exam. Prices can also vary by project management trainer, so it pays to compare different providers.
What do you need to know on the day of your PRINCE2 exam?
On the day of your PRINCE2 exam it is important to be well prepared. Here are the most important things to consider:
- Necessary documents: Bring a valid ID (passport, driver's license or ID card).
- Length of time: The Foundation exam lasts 60 minutes, the Practitioner exam lasts 150 minutes.
- Scoring system: For Foundation you need to answer at least 33 out of 60 questions correctly (55%). For Practitioner the threshold is 38 out of 68 points (55%).
- Allowed aids: You are not allowed to use any aids in the Foundation exam. You are allowed to use the PRINCE2 manual in the Practitioner exam (only the official, unmodified version).
- Not allowed: Electronic devices (other than the computer on which you take the exam), notes or other books.
Make sure you are on time (for an on-site exam) or that you are ready well in time (for an online exam). For online exams, you often have to log in 30 minutes before the start for the identity check and system check.
If you pass your exam, you will usually receive your digital certificate within 48 hours. A paper certificate will follow later by post.
Now that you know where and how to take your PRINCE2 exam, you can make the right choice that suits your situation. Whether you choose an exam on location or online, good preparation is the most important thing for success. Do you want to know more about PRINCE2 training or personal advice about which exam option suits you best? Then please feel free to contact us contact us.
