Frequently Asked Questions
To better assist you, we have included frequently asked questions (FAQs) and answers for common inquiries. We understand your time is valuable and hope these questions will assist you. If you need additional support, please feel free to contact Exam Administration at examadministration@isc2.org.
Q: Why is ISC2 adding Candidates to the ISC2 community?
A: As the world's largest association of cybersecurity professionals, we are committed to help answer the critical need for millions more cybersecurity professionals worldwide. ISC2 Candidates create a pathway to a cybersecurity career - or cybersecurity certification - and provides benefits such as professional development, resources and a community to those individuals.
Q: Who can become an ISC2 Candidate?
A: If you’re not yet a certified member of ISC2 and want to learn more about the exciting and rewarding career opportunities in cybersecurity, you’re a perfect fit! ISC2 Candidate is ideal for anyone pursuing or considering a cybersecurity certification.
Q: What are the requirements to be an ISC2 Candidate?
A: To become an ISC2 Candidate, you must complete an online form and provide minimum identifying information, as well as affirm that you will abide by the ISC2 Code of Ethics and Privacy Policy. For a limited time, annual dues will be waived for new ISC2 Candidates. Annual dues for succeeding years will be U.S. $50.
Q: Why should I become an ISC2 Candidate?
A:
When you become an ISC2 Candidate, you join a diverse, global community of cybersecurity professionals working to build a safe and secure cyber world. As an ISC2 Candidate, you’ll have the opportunity to build relationships with our membership of leading minds in cybersecurity, connections that will continue to open doors far into your future.
You can advance your career goals and build your confidence as you work your way toward certification. Once certified, you’ll become a full ISC2 member, proving your expertise in the field and gaining you access to the many resources and discounts members enjoy.
Q: What benefits and resources do I get as an ISC2 Candidate?
A: As an ISC2 candidate, you will be provided with the following benefits and resources
- Exam Preparation – Prepare for certification with Official ISC2 Online Self-Paced and Online Instructor-Led courses all at 20% off. As part of the ISC2 One Million Certified in Cybersecurity initiative, you will get free access to Official ISC2 Online Self-Paced Training for Certified in Cybersecurity as well as free registration to take the Certified in Cybersecurity exam.
- Special Savings – Register with savings on industry events, including ISC2 Security Congress and ISC2 SECURE Summits
- Exclusive Networking –Be part of a global community as you engage with cybersecurity professionals in your local ISC2 chapter, our online community and peer learning discussions
- Professional Development – Access the ISC2 Knowledge Vault, Think Tank and Security Briefings webinars
Q: How do I get my 20% discount on certification training and events?
A: Sign in to your ISC2 Candidate account and view your candidate benefits to get access to your exclusive pricing for ISC2 training and more.
Q: Will I be required to submit Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits to maintain my candidate status?
A: No, you will not be required to meet CPE credit requirements as an ISC2 Candidate.Q: How can I become a member?
A: There are three steps to becoming a member of ISC2. First, you must take and pass one of the six credential examinations. Then, you must submit an endorsement application to prove that you have the years of experience that are required to hold the credential. Once your endorsement is approved, you must pay the Annual Maintenance Fee (AMF).
Q: How can I become an Associate of ISC2?
A: To be an Associate of ISC2, you need to pass an ISC2 credential examination. If you do not have the years of work experience required to hold the certification, you can become an Associate of ISC2 until you have the necessary work experience to hold the credential. You can hold the Associate of ISC2 designation for one year past the number of years allowed to meet the work experience requirement. Please refer to the ISC2 Associate page for more information.
Q: What is an “endorsement” and what is the process?
A: Endorsements are required to obtain your certification. Once you receive notification that you have successfully passed the exam, you can start the Online Endorsement Application.
The application must be endorsed and digitally signed by an ISC2-certified professional. If you do not know an ISC2-certified professional in good standing, ISC2 can act as an endorser for you. The ISC2 certified professional is anyone who:
- Is able to attest to your professional experience
- Is an active ISC2 credential holder in good standing
The endorser will attest that your assertions regarding professional experience are true to the best of the endorser’s knowledge, and that you are in good standing within the cybersecurity industry. You will need the endorser’s member/certification number when completing the online application.
Q: What is my ISC2 ID?
A: You will be assigned an ISC2 ID when you create an account with Pearson VUE to register for your exam. You can find your ID number on your profile page on the ISC2 website. If you’re not sure of your ID number, contact MemberSuppport@isc2.org for assistance.
Q: What is my ISC2 account login/username info?
A: Your account login, or username, is your primary email address in your profile.
Q: I received an email saying my ISC2 profile has been created. What is my password?
A: If you did not create the account yourself or if you have forgotten your password, you will need to request a new password via the ‘Forgot My Password’ link.
Q: How can I update my profile name?
A: You will need to contact Member Services at membersupport@isc2.org and provide supporting documentation in order for your name to be updated.
Q: How do I know if my work experience is relevant and counts towards the required experience of the credential?
A: Please refer to the ISC2 certification requirements on our website to determine whether the work experience you possess qualifies for your desired credential. ISC2 currently does not review work experience prior to taking your examination. After taking your examination, if you do not have the required work experience to hold the certification, you can become an Associate of ISC2 until you attain the required experience.
Q: How can I schedule an ISC2 official training?
A: Visit www.isc2.org/training to review and schedule different types of Official ISC2 training.
Q: How can a potential employer verify my certification?
A: Your employer can see if you are a member in good standing by using the Member Verification page on our website. Your last name and member ID number will be needed in order to process the verification.
Q: How can I download the Official ISC2 Logo?
A: From the homepage, follow the procedures below:
- Scroll all the way to the bottom of the page and click on ‘Policies and Procedures’
- Click on ‘ISC2 Member Policies’
- Under ‘ISC2 Logos & Guidelines’, click on ‘Logos Download & Usage’
- Scroll down to the ‘Download’ button and click on it
Q: Does ISC2 Offer Vouchers for Training or Exams?
A: Yes. ISC2 training vouchers are an easy way to streamline your certification training budget. Exam vouchers are also available, but only through ISC2 and ISC2 Official Training Partners. Learn more at www.isc2.org/voucher.
Q: Where can I learn more about AMFs?
A: Please visit our AMF Overview page at www.isc2.org/policies-procedures/amfs-overview
If you are looking for more information about the examination process, please visit https://www.isc2.org/Exams. You will find information on what to expect before, during and after your exam.
Q: Is there an age restriction to take an ISC2 examination?
A: You must be 16 years old to sit for an ISC2 examination.
Q: What is the examination retake policy?
A: You can find the ISC2 examination retake policy by visiting ‘Retake Policy’.
Q: How can I check exam schedules by location and date?
A:
- If you are already an ISC2 Member or ISC2 Candidate, log in to your account. If you do not already have an ISC2 account, you will need to create one.
- Complete the ISC2 Exam Account Information form. IMPORTANT: You must enter your information exactly as it appears on the identification (ID) you will present at the test center. If it is not an exact match, you will not be able to take your test and you will not be reimbursed for any fees paid.
- Once your form is submitted you will be redirected to the Pearson VUE website.
- On the Pearson VUE site, you can select your exam of choice, the language of the exam (if applicable) and the test center location.
- Select an appointment time, review the Non-Disclosure Agreement and pay for your exam on the Pearson VUE site.
Q: What should I do if I cannot find a test center near my location?
A: You can contact Pearson VUE Customer Service to assist you with scheduling your examination.
Q: Can I get my exam score?
A: For those who passed an examination, scores are not provided. For those who failed an examination, a breakdown of the domains in proficiency levels will be provided.
Q: When will I get my exam result?
A: In most cases, you will receive your unofficial examination results before you leave the test center.
Q: Can I bring a dictionary to the exam?
A: No; dictionaries of any type are not permitted within the test center.
Q: What can I bring inside the test center?
A: Items are not permitted inside the test center. You will be instructed by the test administrator to empty your pockets and place all items in a locker.
Q: If I need to retake the exam, do I have to pay the exam fee again?
A: Yes; you will need to pay the full examination fee for each examination attempt.
Q: What do I do if I have passed the exam, but have not received any notice or email from ISC2 after a few days?
A: There could be two reasons for this, either:
- Your examination results have not been received from Pearson VUE. It can take up to 72 business hours for examination results to arrive. Once your examination results are received, you will receive an email confirmation from ISC2.
- You may have multiple accounts and do not have access to the email address associated with your examination. Please contact Exam Administration at examadministration@isc2.org for your accounts to be merged and for your examination confirmation to be resent.
Q: Can I get a copy of my failed exam report?
A: No. Candidates do not receive numerical scaled scores on their pass/fail examinations. They are provided their proficiency level.
Q: My name sequence from the exam confirmation is different from the name sequence on my legal document, what should I do?
A: You may contact Exam Administration at examadministration@isc2.org to update your profile name with Pearson VUE.
Q: I updated my name with ISC2 a few days ago, but it is not updated on my Pearson VUE profile. Can I go for my exam tomorrow?
A: Yes, you can proceed to take your exam the following day. It can take up to 72 business hours for your profile name to be updated within the Pearson VUE system. If it has been more than 72 business hours, contact your Exam Administration representative.
Q: How can I request for a special accommodation?
A: ISC2 provides reasonable and appropriate accommodations for people who have demonstrated a need for test accommodations. If you wish to request an accommodation, you need to complete a request form and return it to ISC2 prior to registering for your exam with the following information to examadministration@isc2.org:
- An explanation of the accommodations you need
- Documentation supporting the accommodation
- The exam you want to take
- The exam location
Test accommodations are individualized and considered on a case-by-case basis. Once an accommodation is approved by ISC2, we’ll send it to Pearson VUE Accommodations. Please allow two to three business days for Pearson VUE to get this information. Then, call Pearson VUE at 800-466-0450, to schedule your exam. Please do not schedule through Pearson VUE’s website or through their main registration phone line. Be sure to contact ISC2 first.
Please note, the purpose of test accommodations is to provide examinees with full access to the test. However, accommodations are not a guarantee of improved performance or test completion.
Q: How can I reschedule or cancel my exam?
A:
- If you are already an ISC2 Member or ISC2 Candidate, log in to your account. If you do not already have an ISC2 account, you will need to create one.
- Complete the ISC2 Exam Account Information form. IMPORTANT: You must enter your information exactly as it appears on the identification (ID) you will present at the test center. If it is not an exact match, you will not be able to take your test and you will not be reimbursed for any fees paid.
- Once your form is submitted you will be redirected to the Pearson VUE website.
- Located at the top portion of the Pearson VUE site, is a section to “View an upcoming test center appointment”.
- Click on the exam displayed in this section, you will be able to use the links cancel or reschedule your existing exam.
Q: Are ISC2 exams available online?
A: Not at this time. Following multiple Online Proctor Pilot Tests, ISC2 has concluded that they do not meet exam security standards.
Q: When taking an ISC2 exam, can I skip a question and then go back to answer it?
A: No. ISC2 offers two types of computer-based exams – linear and adaptive – however neither exam type allows for candidates to skip a question and return to it later.
Q: What is Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) and what exams use that test style?
A: ISC2 uses the CAT format for our CISSP exam in English only. CAT allows for shorter exams (4 hours instead of 6, as few as 125 items instead of 250) and is a more precise evaluation of a candidate’s proficiency in a given domain. For more information on CISSP CAT exams, visit https://www.isc2.org/certifications/cissp/cissp-cat.
Q: I believe I've found exam fraud or cheating. What do I do?
A: If you suspect exam fraud or cheating, you can report this information to ISC2 via the Exam Fraud Form.
A: No. You will not be required to go through the full endorsement process for CC, but you will need to confirm that you will abide by the Code of Ethics in order to complete your certification application.
Q: How can I check the status of my endorsement?
A: You can use the online ISC2 portal to confirm that your endorsement has been received. The portal will also indicate if your application has been selected for audit or has been approved. We will contact you if additional information is needed during the review process.
Q: Why doesn't a candidate/endorser get a notification of the submission when a candidate sends the endorsement form?
A: Endorsers receive a ‘Request for Endorsement’ email when a candidate submits the online application. Candidates are emailed when ISC2 receives the submission from the endorser. Candidates are advised of the application status through the portal.
Q: What kind of supporting document(s) should I attach with my endorsement?
A: If you are claiming a degree, you will need to provide a copy of your degree certificate. Earning a post-secondary degree (bachelors or masters) in computer science, information technology (IT) or related fields may satisfy up to one year of the required experience or an additional credential from the ISC2 approved list may satisfy up to one year of the required experience. If you are asking ISC2 to endorse your application, you will need to provide proof of employment. You can also provide a copy of your resume for a complete overview.
Q: Can I be related to, or married to, my endorser?
A: Yes, any member in good standing with any ISC2 certification at the current time can endorse a candidate for any certification.
Q: Do I need to have an endorser for the CCSP if I already hold the CISSP?
A: Yes. Your CISSP certification will waive the experience requirements, but you must still be endorsed by a member in good standing for the CCSP certification. ISC2 can act as your endorser if needed.
Be sure you keep your member profile up to date with your current mailing address, email address and contact preferences. Click “Sign In” in the top right of this page and update your information in your Member Profile. Questions? Email MemberSupport@isc2.org
Q: How can I check the status of my member welcome kit delivery?
A: Please allow up to 12 weeks for your member welcome kit to arrive after the date you receive your official welcome email from ISC2. Packages are sent via U.S. Postal Service First Class mail, which does not provide tracking numbers.
Q: My package was damaged upon receipt. Can it be resent?
A: Yes, if your package is damaged due to transit or weather, we will send you one complimentary package. Subsequently, a U.S. $35 fee is charged for additional certificate packages. Please contact Member Services for assistance.
Q: My name on the certificate is not consistent with what is reflected on my member profile. Can you resend the package immediately?
A: Certificates are only printed with first and last/surname. If you would like your full name on your certificate, please contact Member Services to update your profile. A U.S. $35 fee will be charged to reissue an additional certificate package.
Q: My address is not correct. However, my welcome kit has been shipped. Can you resend it to the correct address?
A: Please update the address in your member profile and notify Member Services at membersupport@isc2.org. If you have not received your new certificate package after 12 weeks, please contact Member Services for assistance.
Q: Can I get a soft/digital copy of my certificate?
A:
You may access your digital certificate through your member account by logging in and visiting https://cpe.isc2.org/DigitalCertificate.
Additionally, don’t forget to claim your digital badge to proclaim your certification accomplishment online.
Q: I already have one ISC2 certification and have now passed a new exam. Will I receive another mailed certificate for my new certification?
A: Yes, upon completion of certification, a new printed certificate and welcome kit is mailed to each member.
Q: I just earned the Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) certification. Will I get a member welcome kit?
A: No. When you earn the CC certification, you will receive a digital badge and a digital version of your certificate which is accessible to print or download from your Member Profile.
Q: If I have recertified, will I receive a new kit?
A: No. When you recertify (or renew your certification), you will not be sent a Welcome Kit. Welcome Kits are only sent when a certification (excluding CC) is first earned. If you would like to purchase a new kit upon recertification, you may do so by contacting MemberSupport@isc2.org. The fee for a Member Welcome Kit is U.S. $35
Q: How can I claim my digital badge?
A: You will receive an email within two weeks of fully certifying, inviting you to claim your badge. The email will take you to the Credly website where you can claim your badge.
Q: What should I do if I cannot claim my badge?
A: If you cannot claim your ISC2 badge, please email badges@isc2.org with your member ID number and describe the error you're getting.
Q: How can I regain my digital badge link after I deleted the first claim?
A: You can send an email to badges@isc2.org with your member ID number and you will be sent a new email to claim your badge within three business days.
Q: How long can it take to receive the email to claim my badge?
A: It can take up to two weeks from your full certification date.
Q: Where can I find what I owe for my AMF?
A: Log in to your ISC2 account and view your Dashboard. Your AMF status – including due date – can be found on the top of the page.
Q: When can I pay my AMF?
A: Your AMF will be due each year on the anniversary of your certification. You may pay it up to 180 days prior to the due date. You have a 90 day grace period after your due date to pay your AMF before your account will enter suspension status.
Q: How can I pay my AMF?
A: Once you are logged in to your ISC2 account, you can pay your AMF online via debit/credit card, PayPal or a certification voucher at https://my.isc2.org/s/Dashboard. You can also call your regional Member Services team to pay over the phone.
Q: Can I get receipts for each AMF payment?
A: Yes. Please contact membersupport@isc2.org, to request a copy of your AMF receipt.
Q: My address has been changed but it is not updated in my AMF invoice. How can I get that updated?
A: Please contact Member Services at membersupport@isc2.org and request that your invoice address be updated to reflect the postal address on file.
Q: How can my employer pay my AMF?
A: Your employer can contact ISC2 by phone or email to provide payment for your AMF. They will need to have your member ID number and the amount that is due. They can also send payment by mail or wire transfer. For instructions, please contact membersupport@isc2.org.
Q: How can I earn Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits?
A: CPE activities are any educational activity you complete that you believe furthers your development as a professional with the cybersecurity industry. Please refer to the CPE opportunities page at for various opportunities that you may use to help meet your CPE requirement.
Q: What are my CPE requirements?
A: CPE requirements vary depending on the certification(s) you hold. Here’s where you can find the CPE requirements and overview.
Q: How can I submit CPE activities for credit?
A: Sign in to your Member Dashboard and click the CPE heading, or visit https://cpe.isc2.org
Q: What is the difference between Group A and Group B CPE activities?
A: Group A activities are directly related to the domains for your credential. Group B activities are professional development activities outside of those domains.
Q: How many CPE credits can be rolled over annually?
A: CPE credits can rollover from the third year to the first year (of the new three-year cycle) if earned in excess of the minimum requirement within the last six months of the cycle.
- For CC: up to 15 Group A CPE credit
- For CISSP: up to 40 Group A CPE credits
- For CCSLP and CCSP: up to 30 Group A CPE credits
- For SSCP, CGRC and HCISPP: up to 20 Group A CPE credits
Q: How can I check the CPE records in my last cycle?
A: You can contact Member Support at membersupport@isc2.org to request a CPE transcript from your previous three-year cycle.
Q: My CPE activity is selected for audit, where should I submit supporting evidence?
A: You can submit supporting documentation to auditor@isc2.org for review.
Q: Can I send the evidence to the CPE audit team in my local language (e.g., Korean, Japanese, etc.)?
A: No. If the proof is not in English, you must have the documents translated into English.
Q: How do I determine which CPE category is correct?
A: You must use your best professional judgement when determining which category to submit CPE activities under. If you need assistance, please review the CPE Policies and Guidelines.
Q: If I earn another certification, can I get credit for passing the examination?
A: For obtaining a new credential, you may submit up to 40 CPE credits under the self-study category for the time you spent preparing to obtain the new certification.
Q: For CPE credits from BrightTALK webinars, do I have to submit the them manually?
A: You do not have to manually submit CPE credits from BrightTALK if you added your member ID when creating your account. CPE credits will be submitted on your behalf within 3-5 business days. Please note: if you have added your Member ID to your account profile after creating the account, the activity will not be synced with your CPE portal.
Q: My CPE credits did not upload to my account after I completed viewing a webinar. What should I do?
A: If you do not see activity posted from viewing a webinar within 3-5 business days, you may enter these manually under the self-study category for 1 CPE per hour of attendance.
Q: Can I claim CPE credits for viewing the archived webinars?
A: Yes. You can earn CPE credits for viewing archived webinars. Submit the CPE for the date that you participated in the event.
Q: What is my CPE status? Have I fulfilled the CPE requirements for renewal?
A: You can view your CPE status by logging onto the Member Home page and viewing your Certification Dashboard.
Q: I am currently in the second year of my three-year certification cycle. Can I still submit CPE credits that I have earned in the first year?
A: Yes. You may submit any CPE credits earned throughout your current three-year cycle.
Q: What kind of supporting document should I keep for my CPE activities?
A: You can use certificates of completion or attendance, receipts, badges from attendance, itineraries that were provided, or written statements describing what the activity was, how it relates to the domains, and what you learned from it.
Q: I have an activity selected for audit, but I entered the information wrong. How can I delete it?
A: Audited CPE credits cannot be edited or removed, so you will need to include any details that need to be corrected in your response to the CPE auditor.