PRINCE2 Certification Guide
PRINCE2® certification is one of the most widely recognised project management
qualifications worldwide. At Training ByteSize, we provide
accredited PRINCE2 training designed to help you understand the methodology clearly,
prepare effectively for the exams, and apply PRINCE2 confidently in real projects.This guide explains what PRINCE2 certification is, the levels available,
how the exams work, and how Training ByteSize supports you on your certification journey.
What is PRINCE2® certification?
PRINCE2 (PRojects IN Controlled Environments) is a structured project management methodology based on best practices drawn from real-world project experience.
PRINCE2 certification demonstrates that you:
- Understand a proven, process-driven approach to project management
- Can work effectively within defined roles, stages, and controls
- Are able to manage risk, quality, and change throughout a project lifecycle
Because PRINCE2 is methodology-focused rather than industry-specific, it can be tailored to projects of any size, complexity, sector, or organisation.
If you’re new to project management or want to understand the broader discipline before choosing a methodology, our guide to what is project management explains the role, core principles, and how frameworks like PRINCE2 and APM fit into real-world career pathways.
If you’re exploring a career in project management and want to understand typical roles, salaries, and progression routes, see our guide on how to become a project manager.
If you’re deciding which project management certification route to take in the UK, see our guide to project management qualifications in the UK for an overview of the main recognised pathways and how PRINCE2 fits within the wider UK qualification landscape.
Who awards PRINCE2 certification?
PRINCE2 certifications are awarded by PeopleCert, the official examination institute for PRINCE2.
Training ByteSize is an accredited PRINCE2 training provider, which means:
- Our courses align fully with the official PRINCE2 syllabus
- Exams are taken through PeopleCert
- Certificates are internationally recognised and verifiable
PRINCE2 certification levels
PRINCE2 certification is available at two main levels: Foundation and Practitioner. You can study them separately or together as a combined route to full PRINCE2 qualification.
To compare training formats, prices, and study options, visit our PRINCE2 courses page.
PRINCE2 Foundation certification
The PRINCE2 Foundation level validates your understanding of the core elements of the
method, including:
- The seven PRINCE2 principles
- The seven themes, such as risk, quality and business case
- The seven processes that guide a project from start to finish
- Key terminology and concepts used within PRINCE2
Who PRINCE2 Foundation is suitable for:
- Individuals new to PRINCE2 or project management
- Project team members and support roles
- Professionals who work in project environments and need a common language
No prior project management experience is required to take the Foundation exam.
At Training ByteSize, our
PRINCE2 Foundation course
focuses on clarity, structured learning and building your exam confidence step by step.
PRINCE2 Practitioner certification
The PRINCE2 Practitioner level demonstrates your ability to apply and tailor the
methodology to real projects.
It assesses whether you can:
- Apply PRINCE2 principles across different project environments
- Use the themes and processes to manage risk, quality, change and progress
- Make informed decisions using the PRINCE2 framework in practical scenarios
Who PRINCE2 Practitioner is suitable for:
- Project managers and aspiring project leaders
- Professionals responsible for managing or directing projects
- Anyone who already holds PRINCE2 Foundation and wants to deepen their expertise
To sit the Practitioner exam, you must hold a valid PRINCE2 Foundation certificate
(or an approved equivalent). Training ByteSize’s
PRINCE2 Practitioner course
focuses on real-world application, scenario-based exercises and targeted exam preparation.
Combined PRINCE2 Foundation & Practitioner
Many learners choose to complete both levels together in a single learning pathway.
Our
PRINCE2 Foundation and Practitioner course
is designed for those who want a complete route to PRINCE2 certification, covering
both the core knowledge and practical application.
PRINCE2 certification exams
PRINCE2 Foundation exam
- Multiple-choice format
- Tests knowledge and understanding of the PRINCE2 method
- Closed-book exam
- No formal prerequisites
PRINCE2 Practitioner exam
- Scenario-based objective testing
- Focuses on applying PRINCE2 to real-world project situations
- Open-book exam (official PRINCE2 manual permitted)
- Requires a valid PRINCE2 Foundation certificate (or equivalent)
All Training ByteSize courses include clear guidance on the exam structure, practice
questions and tips on how to approach the PeopleCert exams with confidence.
How long does PRINCE2 certification last?
- PRINCE2 Foundation certification does not expire.
- PRINCE2 Practitioner certification is valid for
three years.
Practitioner status can be maintained via PeopleCert’s renewal options or by
re-taking the Practitioner exam before it expires.
Is PRINCE2 certification worth it?
Many professionals choose PRINCE2 certification because it provides a clear, structured
and repeatable way of managing projects. It is:
- Recognised internationally across public and private sectors
- Applicable to projects of all sizes and complexities
- Aligned with governance, control and stakeholder management best practice
- A strong addition to a CV for project and programme management roles
PRINCE2 is particularly valuable in organisations where governance, documentation and
accountability are important, such as government, finance, IT, construction and healthcare.
How to get PRINCE2 certified with Training ByteSize
The typical route to PRINCE2 certification with Training ByteSize is:
- Choose your level: Foundation, Practitioner or a combined route.
- Enrol on an accredited PRINCE2 course with Training ByteSize:
- Study using our expert-led resources and structured learning materials.
- Sit the official PeopleCert exam online.
- Receive your globally recognised PRINCE2 certificate upon passing.
Training ByteSize offers flexible learning options, including online self-paced study,
virtual instructor-led courses and in-company training for teams.
Why choose Training ByteSize for PRINCE2 certification?
- Accredited PRINCE2 training provider aligned to PeopleCert requirements
- Experienced tutors with real-world project management expertise
- Flexible formats to suit busy schedules and different learning styles
- Structured exam preparation and practice questions
- Clear, straightforward explanations of the PRINCE2 method
Our focus is on helping you understand PRINCE2 — not just
memorise it for the exam.
PRINCE2 certification FAQs
Do I need project management experience to take PRINCE2 Foundation?
No. PRINCE2 Foundation has no formal prerequisites and is suitable for complete
beginners to project management as well as experienced professionals who are new to
the PRINCE2 methodology.
Can I go straight to PRINCE2 Practitioner?
To sit the PRINCE2 Practitioner exam, you must first hold PRINCE2 Foundation or an
approved equivalent qualification. Many learners complete both levels together via the
combined Foundation & Practitioner course.
Can I study PRINCE2 online with Training ByteSize?
Yes. Training ByteSize offers online self-paced PRINCE2 courses, virtual
instructor-led training, and classroom or in-company options, so you can choose a
format that suits the way you prefer to learn.
Which PRINCE2 course should I choose?
If you are new to PRINCE2, the Foundation course is the best starting point. If you
already hold Foundation and want to focus on applying the method, choose Practitioner.
If you want a full route to PRINCE2 certification in one go, our combined Foundation
& Practitioner course is ideal.
Start your PRINCE2 certification journey
If you’re ready to work towards PRINCE2 certification, explore our accredited
training options designed to support your success from study through to exam.