The Professional in Human Resources – International (PHRi®) is a credential from HRCI® that validates your knowledge of HR operations, practices, and technical expertise in a global context (non-U.S. focus).

It demonstrates your ability to implement HR programs, handle day-to-day HR functions, and ensure compliance with international HR standards.

• Early to mid-level HR professionals working internationally
• HR officers, coordinators, and specialists
• HR generalists handling multiple HR functions (recruitment, employee relations, training, compliance)
• Professionals seeking to strengthen their global HR credentials and progress to SPHRi® in the future

To qualify, you must have:

• Bachelor’s degree + 1 year of professional HR experience, OR
• No degree + 4 years of professional HR experience

⚠️ The HR experience must be professional-level (not clerical/administrative).

The PHRi® exam measures your technical HR knowledge and ability to apply it in real situations.

Domains (based on HRCI exam content outline):

1. Talent Acquisition (19%) – workforce planning, recruitment, selection
2. HR Administration & Shared Services (19%) – HR operations, payroll, compliance
3. Talent Management & Development (19%) – training, performance management, retention
4. Compensation, Benefits & Work Experience (17%) – pay structures, benefits programs
5. Employee Relations & Risk Management (16%) – employee rights, workplace policies, conflict resolution
6. HR Information Management (10%) – HR metrics, HRIS, data privacy

• Format: Computer-based, delivered via Pearson VUE test centers or online proctoring
• Questions: 170 multiple-choice (145 scored + 25 pretest)
• Duration: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Language: English (with translations available in some regions)

• Application Fee: $100 (non-refundable)
• Exam Fee: $395
• Total: $495

• Submit an application via the HRCI® website
• Provide academic and work experience documentation
• Pay exam fees
• Schedule exam through Pearson VUE

• Review the HRCI Exam Content Outline (download from HRCI site)
• Use PHRi prep books & study guides aligned with exam domains
• Attend PHRi exam prep training (from Green International or other providers)
• Practice with mock exams, flashcards, and scenario-based questions
• Join HR study groups for discussions and peer learning

• Official HRCI PHRi Prep Guide & Practice Questions
• HRCP (Human Resource Certification Preparation) study materials
• Online courses/webinars from approved training providers
• Mock tests to simulate exam conditions

• The exam is scored on a scaled range of 100–700
• Passing score = 500

• Must wait 90 days before retaking
• Maximum 3 attempts in a 12-month period
• Retake requires full exam fee ($395)

• Valid for 3 years
• Renewal requires 45 recertification credits (HR-related learning) OR retaking the exam

• Establishes credibility in international HR practices
• Enhances your profile for HR Officer, HR Specialist, HR Business Partner roles
• Helps build the foundation to progress to SPHRi® certification
• Provides global recognition for HR knowledge and competency

• Instructor-led exam preparation training (weekday/weekend batches)
• Study plans & mentoring to keep you on track
• Mock exams & practice questions aligned with HRCI domains
• Guidance for exam application and scheduling
• Access to case studies & practical HR scenarios

• PHRi® is for HR professionals focused on tactical and operational HR functions.
• It’s the stepping stone toward senior-level HR certification (SPHRi®).
• Consistent study + practice with mock exams is the best way to ensure first-time success.