Deciding whether to take the PMP exam in person or from home depends on your personal preferences and circumstances. To help you make an informed decision, we've compiled a list of factors to consider when choosing the best setting for your PMP exam.
Factors to Consider
Comfort level: If a controlled testing environment makes you feel more at ease, consider taking the exam at a Pearson VUE Testing Center. On the other hand, if the familiarity and convenience of your home or office appeal to you, the online proctored option might be a better fit.
Distractions: Weigh the potential distractions in each setting. Testing centers are designed to minimize distractions, while a home or office setting requires you to ensure a quiet, interruption-free space that complies with testing requirements.
Technical requirements: For the online proctored exam, a reliable computer with a stable internet connection, webcam, and microphone is necessary. You'll also need to install the required software and meet Pearson VUE's system requirements. If technical concerns or equipment availability is an issue, taking the exam in person may be a more suitable option.
Availability: In-person exams could have limited availability due to the number of testing centers and COVID-19 restrictions. Conversely, online proctored exams tend to offer more flexible scheduling options.
Our Experience and Recommendations
Based on our experience with clients, the PMP exam can be quite stressful, and managing technical logistics and compliance may add to that stress. Opting for an in-person exam can alleviate some of these concerns. However, if availability is an issue and you choose to take the exam from home, we recommend thoroughly reviewing PMI's preparation video and planning backup exam dates in case of technical challenges.
For more information on online proctor testing guidelines, visit PMI's dedicated page: Online PMP Certification | PMI
Your PMP exam experience can be greatly influenced by the setting in which you take the test. Consider your comfort level, potential distractions, technical requirements, and availability when deciding between an in-person or online proctored exam. By evaluating these factors, you can choose the best exam setting to optimize your performance and success.