If you’re preparing for the PMP® exam, you’ve likely seen the term “PMI Authorized Training Partner” (ATP) attached to many prep courses. PMI created the ATP program to bring structure, consistency, and compliance to how PMP prep is delivered around the world. That’s a smart move—especially for a globally respected certification like the PMP.
So, the question we’re often asked is:
“Why isn’t Cheetah Learning an ATP?”
Let’s break it down.
✅ What PMI’s ATP Program Does Well
PMI developed the ATP program to:
- Ensure every PMP candidate receives accurate, consistent instruction
- Prevent outdated or off-track materials from confusing test-takers
- Create a unified curriculum aligned with how PMI wants the PMP credential represented
- Provide a network of vetted training providers around the world
These are legitimate goals—and they serve many learners well, especially those who benefit from structure and prefer a traditional, academic approach.
⚡ Where Cheetah Learning Takes a Different Approach
Cheetah Learning pioneered accelerated PMP exam prep over 20 years ago. Our students consistently pass the PMP exam after just four days of focused training—not because we rush them, but because we train them differently.
Our proprietary system is:
- Rooted in cognitive science and behavioral learning principles
- Designed to promote rapid understanding and real-world application
- Tailored to help learners stay deeply engaged, absorb information fast, and retain what matters
But here’s the challenge:
💡 PMI requires ATPs to use PMI’s official training materials—which are structured for a slower-paced, traditional format.
Those materials simply don’t align with how Cheetah teaches.
🙌 Respecting PMI. Respecting Learning Diversity.
We have tremendous respect for PMI and the PMP credential.
It’s why we’ve helped over 80,000 students become PMP certified—many of them in record time.
But we also respect that different students learn in different ways.
The ATP program works well for many providers. But our accelerated learning model, which delivers fast, effective results, can’t be confined to PMI’s standardized format. So rather than compromise our methods—or PMI’s rules—we’ve chosen not to participate as an ATP.
🎯 The Bottom Line
Cheetah Learning isn’t an ATP because we prioritize results over conformity.
Our mission is to help professionals pass the PMP exam fast, confidently, and on the first try—using a method that works for how high-performing adults actually learn.
So if you’re looking for a trusted, proven alternative to the traditional PMP prep path…
You’re in the right place.