The PMI-PBA exam is comprised of 200 multiple-choice questions.
- Of the 200 questions, 25 are considered pre-test questions.
- Pre-test questions do not affect the score and are used in examinations as an effective and legitimate way to test the validity of future questions.
- All questions are randomly placed throughout the exam.
| No. of Scored Questions | No. of Pre-test (Unscored) Questions | Total Examination Questions |
| 175 | 2 | 200 |
- Computer-based testing (CBT) is the standard method of administration for PMI examinations.
- Paperbased testing (PBT) is available under limited circumstances (refer to the Examination Administration section in this handbook for more details). The allotted time to complete the computer-based examination is four hours.
Before taking the exam, it is important to understand the format, scoring approach, and content areas being assessed. A comprehensive PMI-PBA Certification Training program can help you prepare effectively while gaining practical business analysis knowledge.
Allotted Examination Time: 240 Minutes
- It may take some candidates less than the allotted four hours to complete the examination.
- There are no scheduled breaks during the exam, although you are allowed to take a break if needed. If you take a break during the exam, your exam clock continues to count down.
- The examination is preceded by a tutorial and followed by a survey, both of which are optional and can take up to 15 minutes to complete. The time used to complete the tutorial and survey is not included in the examination time of four hours.
Item Development
- PMI-PBA exam questions:
- Are developed and independently validated by global work groups of business analysis professionals;
- Are referenced to the current business analysis reference list;
- Are monitored through psychometric analysis; and Satisfy the PMI-PBA Examination Content Outline.
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PMI-PBA Certification Preparation Resources
Preparing for the PMI Professional in Business Analysis (PMI-PBA)® certification requires a clear understanding of eligibility requirements, application steps, exam content, and business analysis practices. These resources can help you plan your certification journey, prepare for the exam, and avoid common application mistakes.
Getting Started with PMI-PBA
- What is PMI-PBA® Certification – Learn what the PMI-PBA certification is, who it is designed for, and how it supports business analysis professionals.
- The Importance of PMI-PBA Certification in Business Analysis – Explore why PMI-PBA matters for professionals involved in requirements, stakeholder engagement, and project delivery.
- PMI Professional in Business Analysis (PMI-PBA)® Certification Cost – Understand the main costs involved in pursuing the PMI-PBA certification.
Eligibility and Application
- PMI-PBA Eligibility Requirements – Review the education, experience, and training requirements needed before applying.
- PMI-PBA Certification Process – Follow the main steps from eligibility review to application, exam scheduling, and certification.
- How to Record Your Training on the PMI-PBA Application – Learn how to document your business analysis training correctly in the application.
- How to Record Your Experience on the PMI-PBA Application – Understand how to describe and organize your business analysis experience for PMI review.
- PMI-PBA Audit Process – Learn what happens if your application is selected for audit and how to prepare supporting documentation.
Understanding the PMI-PBA Exam
- PMI-PBA Exam Information – Review important exam details, including structure, format, timing, and what to expect.
- PMI Professional in Business Analysis (PMI-PBA)® Examination Content Outline – Explore the major exam domains and how they guide your study plan.
- PMI-PBA Sample Exam Questions – Practice with sample questions to understand the style and level of thinking required in the exam.
Exam Scheduling and Administration
- PMI-PBA Exam Rescheduling or Cancellation – Learn what to consider if you need to reschedule or cancel your PMI-PBA exam appointment.