Considering PRINCE2 certification? This comprehensive FAQ answers the most common questions about PRINCE2 training, exams, costs, and career benefits.
📚 Key Insight: Over 1 million professionals worldwide hold PRINCE2 certification, making it one of the most recognized project management credentials globally.
PRINCE2 (Projects IN Controlled Environments) is a process-based project management methodology used extensively by governments, corporations, and NGOs worldwide. It provides a structured framework with clearly defined roles, responsibilities, and processes for managing projects of any size or complexity.
PRINCE2 is owned by PeopleCert (formerly AXELOS). PeopleCert manages the certification scheme, maintains the official manual, and accredits training organizations.
There are two main levels: PRINCE2 Foundation (tests knowledge of PRINCE2 principles, themes, and processes) and PRINCE2 Practitioner (tests ability to apply PRINCE2 to real-world scenarios). PRINCE2 Agile is also available for those combining PRINCE2 with agile delivery methods.
No. PRINCE2 Foundation has no prerequisites. Anyone interested in project management can take Foundation training and exam.
You must hold a current PRINCE2 Foundation certification or an equivalent approved qualification (such as PMP, CAPM, or IPMA Level D).
PRINCE2 Foundation certification is valid for life. PRINCE2 Practitioner certification is valid for 3 years and must be renewed by passing the Practitioner re-registration exam or earning sufficient CPD points.
PRINCE2 training covers the 7 principles (continued business justification, learn from experience, defined roles and responsibilities, manage by stages, manage by exception, focus on products, tailor to suit the project environment), 7 themes (business case, organization, quality, plans, risk, change, progress), and 7 processes (starting up a project, directing a project, initiating a project, controlling a stage, managing product delivery, managing a stage boundary, closing a project).
Typical training durations: Foundation (2-3 days), Practitioner (2-3 days), or combined Foundation & Practitioner (5 days). At AeRC, we offer a comprehensive 5-day combined course.
Foundation exam: approximately $250-350. Practitioner exam: approximately $350-450. Training costs vary but typically range from $800-2,000 depending on provider, format (classroom vs online), and location. At AeRC, we offer competitive rates with exam vouchers included.
Foundation pass rate: approximately 95-98% with proper training. Practitioner pass rate: approximately 85-90% with adequate preparation.
Yes. PRINCE2 is highly recognized across Africa, particularly in Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana, Uganda, and Tanzania. It is especially valued in government, NGOs, financial services, and telecommunications sectors.
PRINCE2 focuses on the “how” of project management—a specific methodology. PMP focuses on the “what”—a broader body of knowledge. Both are valuable. PRINCE2 is often preferred in government and NGOs, while PMP is more common in private sector and technology. Many senior professionals hold both certifications.
Yes. Many providers offer virtual classroom training with live instructors, as well as self-paced online courses. At AeRC, we offer both classroom (Nairobi) and live online training options.
You can maintain by: 1) Passing the Practitioner re-registration exam (shorter 1-hour exam) before expiration, or 2) Earning 60 CPD points over 3 years through continuing education activities.
Project Manager, Program Manager, PMO Manager, Project Coordinator, Business Analyst, Project Consultant, Delivery Manager, and many other project-related roles.
Absolutely. PRINCE2-certified professionals earn 30-40% more than non-certified peers. The certification opens doors to better positions, higher salaries, and global opportunities. Most professionals recoup their certification investment within months.
Contact an accredited training organization like African eDevelopment Resource Centre. We offer 5-day Foundation & Practitioner courses with exam vouchers included. Visit our website or call +254 100 996929 to enroll.