Giving it the old college try
HRCI allows students (within one year before or after their graduation) to take the PHR exam. Those who pass then have up to five years to obtain two years of exempt-level work experience and complete their certification. Is it realistic for a student or recent graduate to pass the PHR exam without having any work experience? For my part, the answer is a resounding YES. During the time that I taught an undergraduate HR course at the local university, every one of my students who sat for the PHR exam passed. Not one of them had an ounce of practical HR experience. I think it is a perfect time to take the exam. The concepts are fresh in your mind. You are accustomed to taking tests (and sitting still for long periods of time, which for me, is a significant challenge). I say, go for it! Give it the old college try.