Both come from PMI — but they target different roles and career stages. Here's how PMI Professional in Business Analysis and Project Management Professional compare, and how to choose.
The fastest way to see which credential fits your experience and goals.
| PMI-PBA®PMI Professional in Business Analysis | PMP®Project Management Professional | |
|---|---|---|
| Level | Professional | Professional |
| Exam length | 4h 0m | 4h 0m |
| Questions (real exam) | ~200 | ~180 |
| Pass mark | 70% | 70% |
| In a sentence | Business analysis in projects — PMI's BA credential. | The gold standard in project management. |
| Free practice | 297 sample questions | 150 sample questions |
Exam parameters are compiled from each vendor's official exam guide. Always confirm the current format, eligibility and fees on the official PMI site before booking. ExamDeck is an independent study tool and is not affiliated with PMI.
Figures as published by each vendor, transcribed on the date shown. Where a vendor prices differently for members, both prices are listed.
| PMI-PBA®facts as of August 2026 | PMP®facts as of September 2026 | |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | Exam fee — PMI member: ~$405 (verify on pmi.org) Exam fee — non-member: ~$555 (verify on pmi.org) PMI membership (optional): $129/yr + $10 one-time Renewal (every 3 yrs): 60 PDUs under the CCR program |
Exam fee — PMI member: $445 (raised Aug 6, 2026) Exam fee — non-member: $675 (raised Aug 6, 2026) PMI membership (optional): ~$139/yr Reschedule: $70 Renewal (every 3 yrs): 60 PDUs under the CCR program |
| Study time | commonly reported 80–120 hours depending on BA experience | commonly reported 35–120+ hours depending on PM background and prep course |
| Renewal | 60 PDUs every 3 years under PMI's CCR program | 60 PDUs every 3 years under PMI's Continuing Certification Requirements (CCR) program |
| Entry requirement | Secondary degree: 60 months of business analysis experience (last 8 years) + 35 contact hours of BA education, | Four routes, all requiring 35 hours of PM training (waived if you hold an active CAPM): |
| Body of knowledge | the official PMI-PBA Examination Content Outline | the official PMI Examination Content Outline |
| Full fact pages | PMI-PBA® cost · format · eligibility | PMP® cost · format · eligibility |
Compare the three-year cost of any two certifications, member or not, with the certification cost calculator.
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Both come from PMI. PMI-PBA® (PMI Professional in Business Analysis) is a Professional credential, while PMP® (Project Management Professional) is a Professional credential. They differ mainly in target role, exam length and depth.
The PMI-PBA® exam runs about 4h 0m with ~200 questions; the PMP® exam runs about 4h 0m with ~180 questions. The more senior credential generally demands more applied, scenario-based judgement.
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