How Long Does a PRINCE2® Qualification Take?

Thinking about boosting your project management skills with PRINCE2®, but not sure how long it’ll take?

Whether you're juggling work, study, or life in general, understanding the time commitment is key to planning your next step.

Here’s everything you need to know about how long it takes to complete a PRINCE2® qualification – and what can affect your timeline! 

Why study a PRINCE2® qualification?

A PRINCE2 qualification is one of the most recognised project management certifications in the UK and around the world.

Whether you're just starting your career or aiming to step into a leadership role, PRINCE2 gives you the practical skills, structure, and confidence to manage projects effectively in any industry. You'll learn how to break down complex projects into manageable stages, use consistent processes, and apply best practices to keep things on track.

How are PRINCE2® qualifications structured? 

1. PRINCE2® Foundation course

This is an entry-level PRINCE2® course, offering you a solid understanding of the PRINCE2® methodology, principles, and terminology. It’s perfect for beginners or professionals who want to understand the basics of structured project management, and also acts as a prerequisite for the PRINCE2® Practitioner course.

1. No experience required
2. Exam format: Multiple-choice
3. Outcome: Understand the theory of how projects are run using the PRINCE2 framework confidently contribute to project teams.

2. PRINCE2® Practitioner course

This advanced level is designed for those who already understand the basics of PRINCE2® project management and want to learn how to tailor, implement, and apply the methodology in practical settings. 

1. Prerequisite: PRINCE2® Foundation certification (or similar) 
2. Exam format: Scenario-based; open book 
3. Outcome: Become a registered PRINCE2® Practitioner with the ability to lead or manage projects using PRINCE2®. 

3. PRINCE2® Foundation & Practitioner course

The most cost-effective way to become a fully qualified Project Manager, this two-in-one course option is perfect for ambitious professionals who want to fast-track their project management career, taking you from the basics through to the advanced application of PRINCE2. 

1. No experience required
2. Two exams: One for Foundation & one for Practitioner 
3. Outcome: Become a registered PRINCE2® Practitioner

How long does it take to complete a PRINCE2® qualification? 

PRINCE2® is one of the most respected project management qualifications in the UK and worldwide – and it’s designed to be flexible. Whether you’re working full-time or studying intensively, the time it takes to complete a PRINCE2 course will vary depending on the study method you choose. 

At ICS Learn, our 100% online, self-paced PRINCE2® courses allow you to study whenever and wherever suits you. Most students complete their qualification in a few weeks to a few months, depending on whether they’re taking PRINCE2® Foundation, Practitioner, or the Combined course.

How long does the PRINCE2® Foundation course take?

On average: 

• Full-time (classroom equivalent): 2 to 3 days (30–50 learning hours)
• Part-time, online (while working): 1 to 3 months

Keep in mind that it's possible to complete the PRINCE2® 7th Edition Foundation course online just as quickly as in a classroom if you can set aside some dedicated study time.

What You'll Learn: 

The Foundation course covers the fundamental principles, practices, and processes of the PRINCE2 methodology. You'll learn how to start, manage, and complete a project using a clear and structured step-by-step approach. 

If you decide not to move on to the next level, remember that the Foundation course alone is not enough to become a registered PRINCE2® Practitioner.

How long does the PRINCE2® Practitioner course?

On average: 

• Full-time (classroom equivalent): 2 to 3 days (30–50 learning hours)
• Part-time, online (while working): Up to 3 months 

Like the Foundation course, it takes most students two to three days to complete the PRINCE2® 7th Edition Practitioner course if they choose the full-time classroom route. However, studying online gives you the freedom to complete the course faster if you can dedicate more time each week.

What You'll Learn: 

The Practitioner course builds on your Foundation knowledge by focusing on how to apply PRINCE2 in real-world project environments. You’ll learn how to adapt and tailor the methodology to different projects, helping you become a fully certified PRINCE2® Practitioner.

How long does the PRINCE2® 6th Edition Foundation & Practitioner Combined course take?

On average: 

• Full-time (classroom equivalent): Around 5 days (60–100 learning hours)
• Part-time, online (while working): Up to 6 months (3 months per level)  

Even though the average online study time is around six months, many students complete both levels faster by studying more intensively.

What You'll Learn: 

The PRINCE2® 7th Edition Combined course gives you a complete understanding of the PRINCE2 method – from theory to practical application.

You’ll cover the core concepts at PRINCE2 Foundation level, then learn how to apply them through the Practitioner qualification. You’ll come out of this two-in-one course fully prepared to manage projects with confidence, no matter the industry, size or complexity.

Should I Study PRINCE2® Online or in a Classroom?

The time it takes to complete a PRINCE2® qualification depends on how you choose to study, generally ranging from 3 to 6 days in a classroom setting to 3 to 6 months when studying part-time online.

Classroom courses tend to be more intensive, often compressing learning into a short timeframe. While this can help you qualify quickly, it means upskilling in a short amount of time where information may only be memorised for your exam(s) but not truly retained long term. 

However, studying a PRINCE2® qualification online is typically a more flexible and affordable alternative. You’ll have the freedom to learn at your own pace, on your own terms (which is ideal if you're balancing work, family, or any other commitments!).

At ICS Learn, our online PRINCE2® courses are self-paced, with 24/7 access to materials, personalised tutor support, and interest-free payment plans to make learning more accessible and affordable.

Whether you want to fast-track your qualification or take your time, our platform is designed to help you succeed, without the pressure of fixed deadlines or classroom schedules.

Plus, while it might take longer than a classroom course, the ability to fit your studies around real life means you're more likely to retain what you learn, apply it effectively, and truly benefit from your PRINCE2 qualification.

Take the next step in your career with a 100% online PRINCE2®qualification.