CISSP
Offered by ISC2
CISSP is for experienced professionals who want to show knowledge and leadership across information security.
EXAM AT A GLANCE
Questions
100–150
CAT
Testing time
3
hours, up to
Sections
8
Delivery
Pearson VUE test center
Passing score
700
Cost
$749 USD
Your CISSP Community
Connect with other people preparing for the CISSP.
What the exam covers
Security and Risk Management
16%
Asset Security
10%
Security Architecture and Engineering
13%
Communication and Network Security
13%
Identity and Access Management (IAM)
13%
Security Assessment and Testing
12%
Security Operations
13%
Software Development Security
10%
About the CISSP certification
Since April 2024, every language version of the CISSP exam uses adaptive testing. Certification still requires the exam, five years of experience, and endorsement by a current CISSP holder.
Who it’s for
Experienced security practitioners, managers, and architects.
- Passing score
- 700 out of 1000 (scaled)
- Validity
- 3 years; maintain with CPE credits and annual maintenance fee
- Prerequisites
- Five years of paid work experience in at least two of the eight domains. One year can be waived for a degree or an approved credential.
- Passing without that experience makes you an Associate of ISC2.
Official exam page· Details verified August 2026
Exam details can change. Always confirm current requirements, fees, and exam policies with the certification provider before registering.
How to prepare
01
Review the current CISSP Exam Outline (updated April 2024) across all eight domains.
02
Adopt a 'think like a manager' mindset — the exam rewards risk-based judgment.
03
Study broadly rather than deeply; the exam is a mile wide.
04
Use a full-length study guide plus adaptive practice questions.
05
Line up an endorser and document your 5 years of qualifying experience.
FAQ
Can I take the CISSP without 5 years of experience?
Yes. You can pass the exam to become an Associate of ISC2 and then have up to six years to earn the required experience.
Why is CISSP considered hard?
It covers eight broad domains and rewards managerial, risk-based judgment over rote memorization. Most candidates study 100–150 hours.
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