GPM-b™ to CSPP™ · Transition FAQ
Master Transition FAQ
GPM-b™ to CSPP™
GPM and PMI are transitioning the GPM-b™ credential to the CSPP™ (Certified Sustainable Project Professional) as part of the PMI-GPM joint venture. The PMI-GPM Practice Guide for Sustainability in Project Management and the PMI-GPM P5™ Standard are both moving to version 4.0. The questions below cover what changes, what does not, and what each group of learners, holders, and training partners should do during the transition window.
General Transition Questions
What is changing?
GPM and PMI are transitioning the GPM-b™ certification to the CSPP™ (Certified Sustainable Project Professional. As part of this change, the PMI-GPM Practice Guide for Sustainability in Project Management and the PMI-GPM P5™ Standard for Sustainability in Project Management are both moving to version 4.0.
Is the CSPP™ a new certification or a replacement for the GPM-b™?
The CSPP™ is the successor to the GPM-b™. It builds on the same foundation, with updates to terminology, clarity, and supporting materials. The core structure and concepts remain largely the same.
Why is the GPM-b™ changing to the CSPP™?
The transition reflects the continued evolution of sustainable project management practices, including updates to the PMI-GPM Practice Guide and the PMI-GPM P5™ Standard at version 4.0. These updates keep the credential aligned with current industry expectations and global sustainability priorities.
Is this a major disruption for learners or certification holders?
No. The transition is designed to be smooth and minimally disruptive. Existing certification holders and new candidates can expect continuity, with improvements that enhance the overall experience.
When will this happen?
The official timeline will be confirmed and communicated by PMI in an upcoming announcement.
Questions About the Updated Materials
What is changing in the PMI-GPM Practice Guide for Sustainability in Project Management?
Version 4.0 includes updated terminology, more concise language, and targeted refinements to improve clarity and consistency.
What is changing in the PMI-GPM P5™ Standard for Sustainability in Project Management?
Version 4.0 maintains the overall structure, with selected updates to improve usability and alignment with current practice. Key updates include refined elements, impact analysis questions, improved scoring guidance, and a crosswalk aligned to the PMBOK® Guide Version 8.
Are the new materials backward compatible?
Yes. The updates are designed to remain backward compatible.
Which version of the materials should I study?
Always use the current, most recent versions of the assigned materials. Older materials may still be useful as reference, but preparation should be based on the latest versions.
Will the exam be based on the newest versions?
Yes. Candidates should prepare using the most current materials, as these align with the exam content.
Training Delivery Questions
Where and how can I take CSPP™ training?
CSPP™ training is available online through PMI.org and through accredited training partners worldwide.
What delivery formats are available?
Training may be offered online, in person, or virtually, depending on the accredited training partner.
Can I still take the course through GPM?
During the transition period, individuals currently enrolled in the GPM e-learning course, or those who have not yet completed the course, have until December 31 to complete their training through GPM. After this date, all training is delivered through PMI and accredited partners.
Can independent trainers offer CSPP™ training?
Training must be delivered through PMI or an accredited training partner.
Exam Questions
Who administers the CSPP™ exam?
The exam is administered by PMI and delivered through Pearson VUE test centers.
Where do I take the exam?
All candidates take the exam through PMI via Pearson VUE, regardless of training pathway.
Are both the short (RPL) and regular paths still available?
Yes. Both pathways remain available and are administered through PMI.
Is there a different exam for each path?
Yes. There is a short path (RPL) for eligible candidates and a regular path for others. Both are administered through PMI.
Will the exam content change?
Yes. The exam has been updated to align with the revised materials, with improvements to terminology, clarity, and alignment, while maintaining core concepts.
Current Learner Questions
I am currently in a GPM course. What should I do?
If you purchased the GPM-b™ version, you have until December 31, 2026, to complete the exam. Continue your current path, complete your course by December 31, and follow PMI guidance for exam processing.
What happens if I do not complete my course by December 31?
You will lose access to the course and will need to follow the CSPP™ pathway and requirements.
I completed training but have not taken the exam yet. What should I do?
Follow the current PMI exam process and transition guidance.
I completed the short course before the transition. Am I still eligible?
Yes. You remain eligible but must follow the current PMI exam process.
I have GPM-b™ study materials. Are they still relevant?
Yes, as reference. Prepare for the exam using the most current materials.
Current GPM-b™ Holder Questions
I already have a GPM-b™. What do I need to do?
Nothing is required. Your certification remains valid for five years. PMI offers a free upgrade to CSPP™ with no exam required if you opt in.
How do I upgrade to the CSPP™?
Opt in through PMI and agree to the maintenance requirements. You will receive a new certificate and badge at no cost.
Is the upgrade required?
No. You may keep your GPM-b™ until it expires.
Do I need to retake the exam or training to upgrade?
No. No exam or additional training is required.
Can I keep my GPM-b™, and is it still valid?
Yes. It remains valid until expiration. After expiration, you must purchase and pass the CSPP™ exam.
What happens when my GPM-b™ expires?
Once expired, you must purchase the CSPP™ and pass the exam to regain certification.
Expired GPM-b™ Questions
What happens if my GPM-b™ has expired?
You must purchase the CSPP™ and pass the exam. Expired certifications are not eligible for the free upgrade.
Registry and Record Questions
My GPM-b™ is not showing in the PMI registry. What should I do?
If your certification was issued through GPM, complete the registry merge approval form at https://gpm.org/registry-merge.
Renewal Questions
Does the GPM-b™ require renewal?
No. It is valid for five years and then expires.
What happens when my certification expires?
You must purchase the CSPP™ and pass the exam. If your certification is still active, it is best to opt in and upgrade at no cost.
Trainer and Training Partner Questions
How does this affect trainers and partners?
Trainers will use updated terminology and version 4.0 materials. The structure remains largely the same.
Do trainers need to relearn the course?
No. The update is evolutionary.
What should trainers tell learners about materials?
Always use the most current versions. Older materials may be used as reference.
Can trainers still reference GPM-b™?
Yes. During the transition, use “CSPP™ (formerly GPM-b™)” for clarity.
Process and Policy Questions
Are application and exam processes changing?
All application and exam processes are managed through PMI.
Where should candidates go for final instructions?
Follow official guidance published by PMI.
Is there a transition window?
Yes. Learners in GPM courses have until December 31 to complete them.
Edge-Case Questions
Should I enroll now or wait?
Enroll now and follow the current pathway.
I am unsure of my status. What matters most?
Whether your certification is active, expired, or in progress.
Can I still say I am GPM-b™ certified?
Yes, if your certification is active.
Can I claim CSPP™ without upgrading?
No. You must complete the opt-in process.
Updated: April 2026
