It is not a requirement that you gain the APM Project Fundamentals Qualification before you take the PMQ, but it can provide an advantage. The PFQ (APM Project Fundamentals Qualification) will introduce you to core project management concepts, which are principles that will carry through into the PMQ. Therefore, the PFQ can provide a useful first step towards the APM PMQ because it will help you establish a broad understanding of basic project processes and fundamental awareness of terminology.

The APM qualifications cover an iterative life cycle, which shares some ideals with agile principles. The APM has produced a guide called Directing Agile Change which covers the agile approach and how to apply it to projects.

No, the PFQ does not expire. Following a successful completion of the APM Project Fundamentals Qualification exam, you will not need to renew or retake the exam. This means that you will have an established foundation for your project knowledge and career.

You can become a member of the Association for Project Management at any time. You can visit their website to understand the different membership levels. If you wish to achieve chartership, the highest level of APM qualification, you need to demonstrate high levels of knowledge (potentially through taking other APM qualifications) and significant experience in the project profession managing projects.

The APM PFQ exam is 1 hour long and is a multiple-choice exam. Once you have received your pass mark and certificate, the APM Project Fundamentals Qualification does not expire, meaning that you will not need to renew the qualification.

The Parallel Project Training APM PFQ e-learning courses start at £425 for the self-paced distance learning course (including online exam).

The distance learning course for the APM Project Fundamentals Qualification includes a range of learning resources such as.

Yes, all APM qualifications, including the APM Project Fundamentals Qualification,  are highly regarded professional qualifications. They will demonstrate to employers and other project team members that you have achieved a certain level of project management knowledge and understand project management core concepts. This accreditation can also help advance your project management career.

Project management courses are an extremely useful supplement to your real-world project experience. We believe that training courses give you additional tools and understanding of key elements that are directly applicable to a project manager role and are therefore very worthwhile. The APM Project Fundamentals Qualification will provide you with a solid foundation in project management fundamentals and the concepts that will allow you to begin your career as a project manager.

There are a number of benefits to the APM Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ):

• PFQ introduces the APM best practice, knowledge-based approach to managing projects.
• It provides you with a solid understanding of the fundamental principles of successfully managing projects.
• Gain a professional qualification to demonstrate your interest in and commitment to the profession.

The APM PFQ is a foundational course for those in the early stage of their project management career. It is equivalent to the PRINCE2 Foundation course. The APM Project Fundamentals Qualification is an SCQF Level 6 qualification. It is also the UK certification body for the International Project Management Association (IPMA).