PHR Exam Prep: 5 Key Things to Know Before You Test Your HR Knowledge

The Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification is a valuable credential for HR professionals who want to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the field. Preparing for the PHR exam can be challenging, but knowing what to expect can help you feel more confident and better prepared. Here are five things you need to know before taking the PHR exam:

1. Understand the Exam Format

The PHR certification exam has a duration of three hours, comprised of 115 questions, of which 25 are pretest questions and 90 are scored questions. The exam covers diverse areas, including business management, talent planning and acquisition, learning and development, total rewards, and employee and labor relations. It's important to review the exam format to understand what you'll be tested on. The exam mainly uses multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and fill-in-the-blank questions.

It's essential to review the exam content outline and blueprint to understand the areas that will be covered on the exam. The content outline and blueprint provide detailed information on the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for each functional area.

By reviewing the exam format and content outline, you can develop a study plan that focuses on the areas where you may need the most improvement. It's essential to have a solid understanding of each functional area, as the exam questions can cover a range of topics within each category. Understanding the exam structure and content outline can help you to maximize your study time and increase your chances of success on the exam.

2. Know the Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible to take the PHR exam, you must have experience in an HR position for one-four years and should have a bachelor’s degree or higher; the years of necessary experience is dependent on the level of education.  Make sure to review the eligibility requirements before registering for the exam.

It's important to note that not all types of HR experience qualify for the eligibility requirements. The HR experience must be related to the HR functional areas covered on the exam, including Business Management, Talent Planning and Acquisition, Learning and Development, Total Rewards, Employee and Labor Relations, and Risk Management.

In addition to meeting the experience requirements, you must also have a solid understanding of HR concepts, practices, and regulations. It's recommended that you have a good grasp of HR laws and regulations, such as Title VII, ADA, FLSA, and other employment laws.

3. Develop a Study Plan

Creating a study plan is critical for staying organized and on track. Begin by setting a date for the exam and working backward to create a study schedule that allows you to cover all the material in a reasonable amount of time. Make sure to include breaks and time for review in your plan.

When creating your study plan, it's important to consider your schedule and commitments outside of studying. Make sure to allocate enough time for work, family, and other obligations, as well as time for relaxation and self-care. You want to create a study plan that is realistic and achievable, rather than overwhelming or stressful.

It's also important to break down the material into manageable chunks and to set specific goals for each study session. This will help you to stay focused and motivated as you work through the material. Consider using a study calendar or planner to keep track of your progress and to help you stay on track.

Another important aspect of creating a study plan is to include time for review and practice exams. Reviewing the material regularly and taking practice exams can help you to identify areas where you need more practice or improvement. This will also help you to build confidence and reduce test anxiety.

4. Use Multiple Study Methods

Everyone learns differently, so it's important to use a variety of study methods to maximize your retention. Some effective study methods include reading study materials, watching instructional videos, taking practice exams, and participating in study groups.

Effective studying is essential to passing the PHR exam, and it's important to keep in mind that everyone learns differently. What works for one person may not work for another. Therefore, it's critical to use a variety of study methods to maximize your retention and find what works best for you.

Reading study materials is a common and effective way to learn the material. Reading can help you to absorb information and understand key concepts. Make sure to take notes and highlight important information as you read to help you remember it later.

Watching instructional videos is another effective study method that can help you to understand complex concepts and break down the material into manageable chunks. Videos can also be more engaging than reading and can help you to stay focused and motivated.

Taking practice exams is an excellent way to test your knowledge and identify areas where you need more practice or improvement. Practice exams can also help you to build confidence and reduce test anxiety. Make sure to review your answers carefully and take note of the areas where you struggled. Participating in study groups is a great way to learn from others and get different perspectives on the material. Study groups can also help you to stay motivated and on track with your studies. Make sure to find a study group that is focused and organized, and that meets regularly.

5. Know the Exam Cost

Knowing the cost of the PHR exam is an important consideration when planning to take the exam. The cost of the PHR exam varies based on several factors, including the location and the testing center. Typically, the cost of the PHR exam ranges from $395 to $495, with an additional fee if you need to reschedule or retake the exam.

In addition to the exam fee, there may be other associated costs to consider when preparing for the exam, such as study materials, courses, and practice exams. These additional costs can add up quickly, so it's important to budget accordingly.

Some employers may offer to cover the cost of the exam, so it's a good idea to check with your company's HR department to see if they have any certification reimbursement programs. If your company doesn't offer reimbursement, you may want to consider investing in your own professional development and budgeting for the exam cost.

Ready to pass your PHR exam and prove your HR knowledge? Click the link to learn more key things you need to know before you test, along with additional valuable tips and strategies to help you prepare for success. With my proven system and study routine, you can easily join my 900+ happy students who have passed their HR exams. Take advantage of this opportunity to take your career to the next level! (link)