Since 1996, PRINCE2 has been one of the world’s most widely recognised project management methodologies, trusted by organisations and professionals across industries to deliver projects successfully and consistently.
In late 2024, PeopleCert, which purchased AXELOS (then owners of PRINCE2) in mid-2021, elevated PRINCE2 to being the umbrella brand for project, programme, portfolio, risk, and PMO management.
Whether you’re completely new to project management or looking to advance your existing qualifications, understanding how PRINCE2 works is an important first step.
This page answers the most common questions about PRINCE2 training, certification, and practical application, helping you decide which course is right for you and how Zindiak can support your learning journey.
PRINCE2 originated as a project management methodology developed by the UK government in the 1980s, before being released as PRINCE2 (Projects In Controlled Environments) in 1996 as a structured, best-practice framework for managing projects. It was originally designed to provide a consistent approach to project governance, planning, and delivery across organisations and industries.
PRINCE2 is now an umbrella brand for project, programme, portfolio, risk, and PMO management guidance and certifications. These training programmes run to educate and upskill existing and potential project managers. It uses 7 principles, 7 practices and 7 processes to inform its ‘best practice framework’ for project management. It provides practical guidance, governance models, and proven processes that help teams deliver projects consistently and successfully.
Since its inception in 1996, PRINCE2 has developed beyond project management, with training and guidance expanding to programme management, portfolio management, risk management and agile methodology.
Read our recent blog, What is PRINCE2 to learn more about PRINCE2 and the benefits of the courses.
There are 7 principles that provide the fundamentals of PRINCE2. These are:
These 7 principles, alongside the 7 practices and 7 processes, shape the framework that informs PRINCE2.
There are 7 practices of PRINCE2, which the framework teaches should be set up at the beginning of any project. These are:
These practices should then be monitored throughout the project's duration.
The PRINCE2 methodology splits a project into 7 processes. These are:
When combined and executed effectively, the framework of principles, practices and processes is designed for smooth and effective project management.
PRINCE2 stands for Projects In Controlled Environments. The ‘2’ represents this being the second version of the method.
There are a number of different PRINCE2 courses, all of which use a similar methodology but focus on different specialisms. The PRINCE2 courses are:
The PRINCE2 methodology is used to:
The training programme for PRINCE2 is used to:
PRINCE2 is an internationally recognised certification. For individuals, a PRINCE2 certification:
Many organisations choose to provide PRINCE2 certification courses to some employees, both as an incentive and as a way to boost the skills, experience and training of core team members. With multiple project managers trained on the same stringent framework, this allows for a standardised approach to projects that span departments, branches and even countries.
Yes, PRINCE2 is described as a globally recognised qualification framework used worldwide to support consistent project delivery. The qualification is also recognised across multiple sectors, meaning no matter where your career takes you, PRINCE2 remains a relevant and useful credential.
PRINCE2 is valued across every industry, particularly organisations delivering projects, programmes, portfolios, transformation initiatives, and change programmes. The framework is particularly popular in:
To learn more about the different jobs that PRINCE2 is relevant to, read our recent blog PRINCE2 Jobs Guide 2025 - Top Programme Management Roles.
Yes. The framework is designed for modern, fast-moving business environments, helping organisations manage change, complexity and agile delivery while maintaining governance.
PRINCE2 qualifications are often listed as essential or desirable criteria in project management job specifications, as it ensures a level of skill and awareness, and an assurance that new hires can fit seamlessly into existing projects, informed by the same framework.
To study PRINCE2 Foundation, there are no formal prerequisites required to study PRINCE2 Foundation, meaning anyone interested in learning more and establishing themselves in project management can study and benefit.
PRINCE2 is particularly suitable for:
To study the next level, which is PRINCE2 Practitioner, an individual must hold a valid and recognised project management certification, in PRINCE2 Foundation or equivalent.
Yes, each certification begins with a Foundation level accessible to anyone. PRINCE2 Foundation is designed to build a solid understanding before progressing to Practitioner.
It’s an ideal qualification for anyone wanting to improve skills, and is also a great option for kick-starting a career change.
PRINCE2 has flexible learning options, ideal for working professionals needing to fit their CPD around existing work and personal commitments. At Zindiak, you can choose between self-paced eLearning provisions or live online training, replicating a collaborative classroom environment no matter where you are.
Take a look at our PRINCE2 Course Options to learn more.
PRINCE2 Foundation is an entry-level certification, with no official prerequisites needed to be able to study. It’s designed for people new to project management, as it covers the fundamental processes of PRINCE2, but is equally useful for existing project managers looking to re-evaluate and improve their existing practices.
PRINCE2 Practitioner is the next level of PRINCE2 qualification. In order to study PRINCE2 Practitioner, an individual must hold an existing project management qualification. The best way into the Practitioner course is to complete the Foundation level, though other equivalent qualifications may be accepted, as long as they are still valid.
PRINCE2 Practitioner is more advanced than Foundation, and looks at the real-world applications of the methodology as a whole. Essentially, the theory is learned, and now it’s time to think about how it is applied. .
Ideally, the foundation course should be done first, as it teaches the specific processes, practices and principles upon which PRINCE2 is created. An existing project management qualification is required to enrol for the Practitioner course, and if this is not PRINCE2 Foundation, a basic understanding of PRINCE2 is essential to have too.
Yes, both PRINCE2 Foundation and Practitioner expire after three years. To maintain your qualification status, you can:
For more information about staying qualified, contact a member of the Zindiak team today, who will be happy to talk you through your options.
Yes, PRINCE2 and PRINCE2 Agile are two different course options. PRINCE2 Agile takes the existing PRINCE2 methodology and combines it with a more agile approach. Rather than focusing on business justification and decision points, Agile looks specifically at rapid delivery in fast, ever-changing environments.
Rather than being a completely different approach, PRINCE2 Agile expands the PRINCE2 methodology and how it can be adjusted to even the most challenging environments.
PRINCE2 Agile, like PRINCE2 Foundation, does not require any existing qualifications for entry. Depending on the sectors an individual works in, or is interested in, they may choose to go straight into Agile, or undertake the Agile programme down the line.
The foundation exam is all multiple choice and has a high pass rate across the UK. The course training materials are designed to give a comprehensive understanding of PRINCE2 and equip individuals with the skills they need to not only pass the exam, but also bring their understanding and practical knowledge into the workplace.
The pass mark for both PRINCE2 Foundation and PRINCE2 Practitioner is 60%.
There are 60 questions in the PRINCE2 Foundation exam, and 70 questions in the PRINCE2 Practitioner exam. While both are multiple-choice in format, the PRINCE2 Foundation exam focuses on PRINCE2 methodologies, while the Practitioner exam takes the existing knowledge and asks questions around given scenarios.
The PRINCE2 Foundation exam lasts for 60 minutes. The PRINCE2 Practitioner exam lasts for 150 minutes. Additional time may be available in some circumstances, such as learning difficulties or taking the exam in a second or other language.
The PRINCE2 Foundation exam is not open-book. No study materials or notes are allowed during the exam. The PRINCE2 Practitioner exam, however, is open-book. Official PRINCE2 materials, such as manuals and course books, are allowed during the exam. This is because the exam focuses not on what you know, but on your understanding of the applications of PRINCE2.
Yes, when taking a PRINCE2 course via Zindiak, your examination will be online. The exam will be subject to the same time constraints as in-person examinations.
Online PRINCE2 examinations are still invigilated by a human, done via webcam and microphone. This ensures no cheating or breaching of examination conditions.
If the PRINCE2 exam is failed, you will not receive the qualification, and will need to purchase a RESIT exam voucher. However, many candidates opt for an automatic resit option.
Candidates can purchase a Take2, which provides a voucher for a second exam. The Take2 must be purchased before taking the first exam. It cannot be purchased after the initial failure. Take2 vouchers from Zindiak are often cheaper than anywhere else, and are a cheaper option overall, compared to purchasing a full RESIT voucher.
Another option is a PeopleCert Plus annual membership. This comes with a Take2 on all exams. This can be purchased through Zindiak too. Learn more about exam resit options in our blog Take2 v RESIT v PeopleCert PLUS Annual Membership.
The best way to prepare for a PRINCE2 exam is to:
At Zindiak, we have a range of PRINCE 2 Mock Exams available at a low cost. This gives you an insight into the types of questions as well as the structure, allowing for the most efficient planning.
The length of a PRINCE2 course depends on the type of learning you choose. Training done with a virtual classroom setting lasts between 3-5 days, with set teaching hours. If a flexible self-led study programme is chosen, the training can last between 3-6 months, depending on how many hours a week an individual can dedicate to the learning process.
The PRINCE2 Foundation Course takes around 8 hours of learning time, while the PRINCE2 Practitioner Course consists of 9 hours of learning time. Neither of which includes time for additional study, research and examination preparation.
PRINCE2 training from Zindiak includes:
With optional extras such as:
Explore the full catalogue of PRINCE2 courses from Zindiak to learn more.
Live virtual PRINCE2 training is an accessible way to experience interactive tutor-led learning without the travel requirements of attending an in-person classroom setting.
Live PRINCE2 training is conducted over a video call with an experienced tutor and other candidates. This allows for interactive elements such as Q&A sessions, discussions and break-out rooms that self-led options cannot accommodate.
Though attendees are not restricted by travel, course times and dates are set and will not move, so commitment must be made to attend the sessions.
PRINCE2 training prices vary depending on the provider and level of training opted for. Zindiak are proud to offer comprehensive PRINCE2 training packages, that include training materials, an examination voucher and ongoing tutor support, even with self-led options.
PRINCE2 prices from Zindiak:
Optional extras are also available, including Take2 vouchers and mock exams.
Yes, each of our PRINCE2 provisions includes the exam voucher for you to be able to take the course.
Yes, each of our PRINCE2 packages includes official PeopleCert eBooks and training materials. At Zindiak, we ensure you have everything you need to learn effectively and pass your examination.
To complete online training for PRINCE2, you will need a working PC or laptop with a reliable internet connection and an up-to-date operating system. You will also need to have webcam capabilities, a microphone and speakers. If you have any concerns or queries about your equipment ahead of taking on your PRINCE2 training, contact Zindiak, and a member of our expert team will be able to advise.
While a PRINCE2 qualification alone is not guaranteed to land you a job, it is looked at favourably during initial application sifts and during interviews, when methodologies are used correctly in answers.
The experience and knowledge afforded to an individual from any of the PRINCE2 qualifications make them an attractive candidate, especially for organisations that have already implemented PRINCE2 methodology within standard operations.
There is no set list of jobs that benefit from a PRINCE2 qualification. Precise job titles and descriptions vary from organisation to organisation. PRINCE2 certifications are an asset for anyone:
There are no certainties, as salary expectations and contracts vary greatly across organisations and regions in the UK. However, a maintained and advanced qualification like PRINCE2 Practitioner is good leverage for salary negotiations.
PRINCE2 is ideal for programme managers. Any of the PRINCE2 certifications can provide value to people working in, or aspiring towards, programme management, but the PRINCE2 Programme Management - Foundation and PRINCE2 Programme Management - Practitioner qualifications are specifically geared towards this line of work.
For programme managers currently working in the field, even with years of experience, learning and aligning their practices with PRINCE2 can assist in working collaboratively with other stakeholders already using PRINCE2, and help to keep knowledge fresh and up-to-date.
A PMP (Project Management Professional) certification is a project management training programme from the Project Management Institute. It’s another good entry-level qualification, but there are distinct differences in the methodology and framework. PRINCE2 is process-based, while PMP is knowledge-based and focuses on skills needed to manage projects effectively.
A PMP certification also requires more prerequisites than PRINCE2 at the foundation levels, with a level of experience and hours of logged project management education.
While both are valued internationally, some areas of the world prefer one over the other, with PRINCE2 being favoured in the UK, Europe and Australia, and PMP being more popular in North America.
Both PRINCE2 Agile and AgilePM are respected project management frameworks that focus on agile methodology, responding to fast-paced business environments. Both work in a similar way in terms of using a core foundation of principles. AgilePM also carries Foundation and Practitioner level courses, but does not have other course types like PRINCE2’s P3O, Risk Management, Portfolio Management and Programme Management variants.
While both are agile project management frameworks, PRINCE2 is a comprehensive methodology designed for large-scale projects, whereas Scrum is better for smaller projects and sprints.
ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) is a framework designed specifically around IT and how IT teams and systems can be aligned with business goals, and form vital parts of cross-departmental projects.
ITIL and PRINCE2 courses can complement each other, as PRINCE2 gives overall project management best practices, while ITIL highlights the ways in which IT can form a part of these processes.
ITIL courses are also available from Zindiak, and are ideal for:
Similar to PRINCE2, there are no formal prerequisites to study the foundation level of ITIL, making it incredibly accessible to anyone interested.
To discuss training needs for yourself or members of your organisation, contact Zindiak today to start the journey towards proactive, insightful and effective project management.
Browse our range of PRINCE2 training courses to find which is ideal for your next step in your career. Or, if you're still unsure which is right for you, contact our helpful team.
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