PRINCE2 exams

World’s most popular project management certification

Book your PRINCE2 exam to achieve a globally recognized project management qualification. Choose from our flexible online exam options.

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PRINCE2 Foundation - exam

Foundation exam

The 1-hour Foundation-level PRINCE2 exam is the most popular certification level. Passing the Foundation-level PRINCE2 exam shows employers you know the terminology of the PRINCE2 methodology.

This exam only option comes with 7 days’ access to our PRINCE2 elearning. Exam based on PRINCE2 7th edition.

  • Accreditation: PeopleCert
  • Prerequisites: None
  • Format: Online only.

PRINCE2 Foundation course

Foundation-level PRINCE2 exam includes

The Foundation-level PRINCE2 exam only option includes:

  • 7-day access to Foundation elearning accredited by PeopleCert
  • A digital copy of the official PRINCE2 manual – Managing Successful Projects with PRINCE2 (7th edition)
  • Foundation-level PRINCE2 exam (7th edition)
  • PRINCE2 certificate after passing the Foundation exam
  • PRINCE2 exam preparation
  • Sample PRINCE2 exams.
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Practitioner Exam

Practitioner exam

A 2.5-hour Practitioner-level PRINCE2 exam is for students seeking the higher Practitioner certification. Passing the Practitioner-level PRINCE2 exam shows employers you know how to apply PRINCE2 on non-complex projects.

  • Accreditation: PeopleCert
  • Prerequisites: See above
  • Format: Online only.

PRINCE2 Practitioner course

Practitioner-level PRINCE2 exam includes

The Practitioner-level PRINCE2 exam only option includes:

  • 7-day access to Practitioner elearning accredited by PeopleCert
  • Practitioner-level PRINCE2 exam (7th edition)
  • PRINCE2 certificate after passing the exam
  • PRINCE2 exam preparation
  • Sample PRINCE2 exams.
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Learn more about PRINCE2 exams

Do you need training?

Before buying a PRINCE2 exam, stop and ask whether you need PRINCE2 training. If you have previously failed a PRINCE2 exam and want to take another, then choose either your Foundation exam or Practitioner exam.

However, if you are self-studying to save money, then please ensure you read this article which explains the pros and cons of each PRINCE2 study method.

FAQs about PRINCE2 exams

Are PRINCE2 exams open book?

The PRINCE2 Practitioner exam is open book, allowing use of the official PRINCE2 manual.

The PRINCE2 Foundation exam is closed book-no reference materials are permitted.

Can I just sit a PRINCE2 exam?

Yes. You can sit a PRINCE2 exam without joining a course. Exams can be booked online or taken as part of an accredited PRINCE2 course.

While not mandatory, completing a PRINCE2 training course is recommended-it helps you understand the method, apply it to real projects, and increases your chance of passing on the first attempt.

Can I take PRINCE2 exam without training?

Yes. You can purchase a PRINCE2 exam-only voucher from Knowledge Train without enrolling on a course. There’s no training requirement for taking the exam.

You can prepare through self-paced PRINCE2 e-learning or an official instructor-led course.

Choose the method that best suits your learning style and level of experience.

Can you fail PRINCE2?

Yes. The PRINCE2 Foundation and Practitioner exams require a minimum 60% to pass.
If you fail, you can retake the exam by paying the fee again.

Results are issued immediately after the online exam.

Preparing thoroughly with sample questions and study materials increases your chance of success on the first attempt.

Can you take the PRINCE2 exam online?

Yes. Both PRINCE2 Foundation and Practitioner exams can be taken online through remote proctoring.

You’ll need a webcam, microphone, stable internet, and a quiet space.

Schedule your exam for a convenient date and time.

Remote supervision ensures a secure, fair exam experience without travelling to a test centre.

How many people fail PRINCE2?

On average, only 3% of students fail the PRINCE2 Foundation exam, and 27% fail the PRINCE2 Practitioner exam.

Most candidates pass on their first attempt with adequate preparation and practice using PRINCE2 Foundation mock exams.

How many times can you take PRINCE2 exam?

You can take the PRINCE2 exams as many times as needed – there’s no limit. Most candidates pass on their first attempt with proper preparation.

Use sample exams and practice questions to boost confidence.

If unsuccessful, simply rebook and retake the exam later.

Is PRINCE2 an open book exam?

The PRINCE2 Practitioner exam is open book, allowing use of the official PRINCE2 manual to apply knowledge to practical scenarios.

The PRINCE2 Foundation exam is closed book, assessing understanding of the PRINCE2 principles, people, practices, and processes without reference materials.

Is the PRINCE2 exam difficult?

Difficulty varies by level:

  • The PRINCE2 Foundation exam is easier, with a 97% UK pass rate.
  • The Practitioner exam is more challenging, with a 73% pass rate.

Thorough study, practice questions, and understanding PRINCE2 concepts will greatly improve your success rate.

Consistent preparation helps most candidates pass both exams on their first attempt.

What are the PRINCE2 exam requirements?

Foundation: no prerequisites.

Practitioner: you must hold one of the following:

  • PRINCE2 Foundation (6th Edition)
  • PRINCE2 Practitioner (6th Edition)
  • PMI CAPM or PMP
  • IPMA Levels A-D.

What do I need to take my PRINCE2 online exam?

You’ll need a desktop computer, webcam, and photo ID.

For the Practitioner exam, also have your PRINCE2 manual ready for reference.

What is a PRINCE2 exam voucher?

A PRINCE2 exam voucher lets you book your online exam through Knowledge Train.

What is the PRINCE2 exam body?

The PRINCE2 examining body is PeopleCert, which administers all official PRINCE2 exams worldwide.

What is the PRINCE2 exam registration process?

After paying your PRINCE2 exam fee, you’ll receive an email from PeopleCert with instructions to register your details and select your exam date online.

What is the procedure for the PRINCE2 online exam?

After paying your exam fee, register your preferred date and time.
On exam day, follow the emailed instructions. An online invigilator will:

  • Verify your photo ID
  • Ask you to rotate your webcam 360° to confirm no unauthorised materials or people
  • Monitor you via webcam for the entire exam session.

When can I take my PRINCE2 exam?

During instructor-led training, your trainer may schedule exam time, but you can book your PRINCE2 exams whenever convenient. Exam booking is flexible to fit your schedule.

When do I get my PRINCE2 exam results?

You’ll receive your PRINCE2 exam results immediately after completing the online exam.

Which version are the PRINCE2 exams?

All PRINCE2 exams in English are based on the PRINCE2 7th Edition. For other languages, call +44 (0)207 148 5985.

Infographic

Infographic showing PRINCE 2 exams taken worldwide and the countries and languages that PRINCE2 exams are available in.

IT Learning Library™ online training

PRINCE2 exams and certification route

PRINCE2 exams are a key part of the certification route for PRINCE2. Candidates prepare using PRINCE2 materials, and PRINCE2 prep resources. These exams test understanding of the PRINCE2 framework, principles, and management products. PRINCE2 assessment covers both Foundation and Practitioner qualifications, based on the 7th edition syllabus. PRINCE2 review and testing provide a chance to pass and earn recognised certifications.

Exam invigilators and educational technology

Exam invigilators oversee the exam environment, whether in a classroom or using educational technology. The PRINCE2 project management team supports candidates through downloads, sample questions, and practice tests. Many candidates use PRINCE2 study guides, practice answers, and notes provided by partners and websites. The PRINCE2 exam system is designed for flexibility and allows candidates to apply and tailor their knowledge.

PRINCE2 exam value

PRINCE2 exams test candidates on their knowledge of the concepts, themes, and methods required for project management success with PRINCE2. The scheme is globally recognised and provides additional opportunities for project managers and individuals. Candidates must be able to demonstrate understanding through real scenarios and best practice solutions. The framework supports both public and private sector needs, making PRINCE2 qualifications valuable for anyone in the industry.

Professional Project Management certifications and resources

Professional Project Management certifications, such as PRINCE2 help people advance their careers. PRINCE2 Agile options are available for those wanting more advanced qualifications. PRINCE2 works within the wider portfolio of project, programme, and risk management tools like M_o_R, MoP, and MS Project. Candidates are supported by trainers, guides, and resources to ensure completion and success.

PRINCE2 exam is a key certification for aspiring project management professionals.

A PRINCE2 exam invigilator typically supervises candidates during the PRINCE2 test in a classroom setting.

PRINCE2 testing is often compared to the Project Management Professional (PMP) credential.

PRINCE2 exams now utilise educational technology for online PRINCE2 exam proctoring.

PRINCE2 test candidates receive important exam details via email before the scheduled PRINCE2 exam.

The classroom environment for PRINCE2 exams is designed to minimise distractions.

Passing the PRINCE2 exam can enhance a project management professional’s career prospects.

PRINCE2 exams invigilators ensure all PRINCE2 exam rules are strictly followed.

Educational technology has made PRINCE2 exam preparation more accessible and efficient.

PRINCE2 exams are overseen by an exam invigilator in a classroom, with details sent via email to project management professionals.

PRINCE2 Exams assess understanding of project management principles.

PRINCE2 Exams are available at Foundation and Practitioner levels.

The PRINCE2 exam consists of multiple-choice questions and scenario-based tasks.

The PRINCE2 exam is recognised internationally by employers.

PRINCE2 Exams preparation often involves studying official manuals and sample questions.

Passing the PRINCE2 Exam can enhance career opportunities in project management.

Introduction to PRINCE2 exams and purpose

The PRINCE2 exams certify understanding of the PRINCE2 method and its use in project environments, supporting professional roles across project management and PMO teams.

The Foundation and Practitioner levels assess candidates on themes, processes, and tailoring, under the supervision of Axelos and accredited training organisations.

Preparation for PRINCE2 exams involves study guides, mock exam practice, question banks, and revision of key areas such as the business case, risk register, and quality theme.

Employers and programme managers value certification as evidence of governance capability, stakeholder engagement, and benefits realisation expertise.

Core benefits of certification

Certification helps project managers, delivery managers, and team managers demonstrate proficiency in governance, lifecycle control, and management product delivery.

Passing PRINCE2 exams reflects understanding of roles such as the project board, project assurance, and senior responsible owner, alongside artefacts like the project brief and project plan.

Professionals in PMO, portfolio management, and programme management use this credential to enhance career progression and align with corporate governance frameworks.

Effective use of the lessons log, issue register, and benefits review plan is a common focus in both exam preparation and workplace application.

Structure and format of foundation papers

The Foundation exam uses objective testing or multiple-choice questions to assess understanding of definitions, themes, and process sequences.

Candidates should know the seven principles, seven themes, and seven processes, and recognise roles such as sponsor, project manager, and team manager in simplified scenarios.

Time management is crucial; practice exams and timed question banks improve speed and accuracy.

Trainer-led sessions and study materials clarify complex topics such as configuration management, work packages, and management stages.

Topics frequently tested at foundation

Common Foundation topics include the business case, quality theme, risk management, change control, and management product purposes.

Questions often explore project assurance duties, project board responsibilities, and artefacts like the project brief and project plan.

Understanding the relationship between themes and processes is emphasised over memorising lists of terms.

Scenario-based practice improves recognition of correct sequencing and role responsibilities.

Practitioner exam focus and applied knowledge

The Practitioner exam tests applied judgement and requires candidates to tailor PRINCE2 to scenario contexts, referencing governance, roles, and the business case.

Examinees must show how to apply tailoring guidance to management stages, adapt work packages, use the risk register, and recommend configuration item updates.

Scenarios challenge candidates to balance controls such as change authority and quality management within project constraints.

Preparation involves practice exams, examiner feedback, and practical use of templates like the issue register and lessons log.

Answering practitioner scenario questions

Strong answers start by identifying the controlling theme or process, such as risk or change management, before recommending specific management product updates.

Candidates should reference roles such as the senior responsible owner, project board, project assurance, and delivery manager when explaining decisions.

Linking answers to the business case and benefits realisation supports governance alignment and earns higher marks.

Exam techniques include highlighting key facts, allocating time carefully, and checking each response against examiner guidance.

Study strategy: plans, practice, and resources

An efficient study plan combines official manuals, accredited course materials, and timed practice tests, along with sample answers and examiner commentary.

Include regular reviews of themes, processes, roles, and products such as the project brief, project plan, and benefits review plan to strengthen understanding.

Mock exam sessions develop timing and familiarity with the question bank format, highlighting weaker topics for focused revision.

Relate study material to workplace practice by mapping exam topics to real projects, using artefacts like the risk register, lessons log, and change authority documents.

Tools and materials for efficient revision

Core materials include official PRINCE2 manuals, practice exams, flashcards, and annotated management product templates.

Accredited online platforms and trainers provide structured revision, practical exercises, and examiner-style feedback for Practitioner exam questions.

Group study sessions reinforce stakeholder engagement, project board collaboration, and tailoring PRINCE2 for Agile or hybrid frameworks such as AgilePM.

Maintain a personal checklist of themes, governance items, and artefacts to ensure comprehensive revision coverage.

High-density entity review for exam readiness

To build exam readiness, review entities including Axelos, Foundation, Practitioner, project board, project assurance, and senior responsible owner.

Revise roles such as project manager, team manager, delivery manager, programme manager, and PMO responsibilities alongside artefacts such as the project brief, project plan, and product description.

Practise linking concepts like business case, benefits review plan, lessons log, issue register, and risk register to ensure integrated understanding.

Be confident with change control, configuration items, work packages, management products, and tailoring guidance for faster recall during exams.

Embedding entities through active practice

Active revision includes writing case examples referencing stakeholders, sponsor roles, governance framework, and portfolio management implications.

Create mini-scenarios that require updates to artefacts such as the project plan, risk register, and benefits review plan, and practise concise responses.

Use question banks to test process control, quality, and schedule management, and map each to relevant themes and processes.

Review examiner reports to understand expectations for referencing work packages, project assurance, and management stages.

Common pitfalls, timing, and examiner expectations

Frequent mistakes include ignoring the business case, failing to reference correct roles, and missing tailoring opportunities for specific project lifecycles.

Time pressure can be mitigated by practising with strict timers and dividing minutes per question using real mock exam conditions.

Examiners reward clear connections to themes, processes, and governance, with references to project board decisions, project assurance, and stakeholder needs.

Memorisation alone is insufficient; instead, practise applying the methodology where change authority, configuration management, and issue management interact.

Practical timing techniques

Before answering, highlight scenario facts, identify the controlling theme, and specify which artefacts such as the project plan or risk register require updates.

Keep answers concise, link each to the business case, and verify stakeholder alignment and benefits realisation.

Double-check role names, such as sponsor or SRO, and confirm that all management product terminology follows PRINCE2 standards.

Develop recovery strategies for time-limited questions by addressing high-mark sections first.

Exam day conduct, results, and professional application

On the exam day, confirm identification, review permitted materials, and ensure familiarity with timing strategies practised in mock sessions.

After receiving results, progress from Foundation to Practitioner to demonstrate capability in governance and project delivery.

PRINCE2 certification enhances professional credibility and supports career advancement in roles involving governance, benefits realisation, and stakeholder management.

If a resit is needed, review weak themes, revisit lessons logs, risk responses, and repeat practice exams for targeted improvement.

Using certification in practice

Apply certification insights to improve PMO processes, portfolio management, and governance frameworks across organisational projects.

Use the qualification to pursue roles such as project manager, programme manager, or PMO lead, and demonstrate applied PRINCE2 knowledge.

Mentor colleagues through mock exams and scenario analysis to reinforce collective understanding of project governance.

Maintain competence with continuous learning, updated templates, and application of the business case and benefits review plan in project delivery.

PRINCE2 exams

PRINCE2 exams remain a recognised benchmark for project management expertise, combining theoretical knowledge with applied governance practice.

Consistent study, entity-rich revision, and real-world engagement with project artefacts lead to sustained success in PRINCE2 certification.

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