The entry-level cybersecurity certification enables students, incoming professionals and career changers to build confidence and enter their first cybersecurity role prepared for what’s next.

Why is (ISC)² developing an entry-level certification?

Research from (ISC)² and others continues to conclude that there is a global shortage of qualified cybersecurity professionals. While there are many contributing factors, we believe one solution is to create a certification that enables candidates – including students, young professionals and career-changers – to demonstrate to employers their familiarity with foundational cybersecurity concepts as determined by cybersecurity professionals and practitioners already in the field.

What is a certification pilot program?

Before a certification program becomes formally operational, a rigorous process of exploration, research and validation is necessary to ensure the qualification meets its intended purpose, as well as the demanding standards of the cybersecurity community. The pilot program for a potential entry-level certification has entered the phase where we need participants to sit for the pilot exam. We are looking for new entrants to cybersecurity, individuals interested in pursuing a cybersecurity career from another field, as well as existing cybersecurity professionals to take the pilot exam. This will enable us to evaluate the effectiveness of the exam and its ability to accurately assess candidates’ grasp of the subject matter (also called domains) on which the exam is based.

What is the (ISC)² entry-level cybersecurity pilot certification?

The new pilot certification program is aimed at helping cybersecurity career pursuers demonstrate their foundational knowledge to employers, proving they can learn and grow on the job.

How much work experience is required to earn this certification?

Unlike other (ISC)² certifications, there is no work experience requirement to earn this certification.

When will (ISC)² begin administering the entry-level cybersecurity certification pilot exam?

The pilot exam administration period will begin Jan. 31, 2022. Registration for the pilot exam is now open with appointments currently available until May 31, 2022. Please note that the pilot exam administration period may be shortened or extended depending on the number or participants taking the exam. We recommend that any interested candidates schedule their exam as early as possible. Any unused vouchers or undelivered exams that are a part of this pilot will be converted to the regular certification program when it becomes available.

Is the pilot exam available worldwide?

Candidates will be able to take the entry-level cybersecurity certification pilot exam at any (ISC)²-authorized Pearson VUE test center that offers English language examinations.

Is the exam available in multiple languages?

The entry-level cybersecurity certification pilot exam will be available in English only.

Who should consider participating in this pilot certification?

Individuals pursuing a career in cybersecurity, which can include recent college graduates or those wishing to change careers.

Why will this certification be different from other foundational certifications?

We believe a need still exists in our industry for a certification that is attainable for newcomers and recognizes the growing trend of people entering the cybersecurity workforce without direct IT experience. Employers need confidence that when hiring new entrants into the field they have a solid grasp of the right technical concepts, and a demonstrated aptitude to learn on the job. Moreover, as an (ISC)² certification, the recipient will be an (ISC)² member backed by the world’s largest network of certified cybersecurity professionals helping them continue their professional development and earn new achievements and qualifications throughout their career.

Isn’t the SSCP already an (ISC)² entry-level certification?

The SSCP is for IT administrators, managers, directors, network security professionals and others responsible for the hands-on operational security of their organization’s critical assets. It shows they have the advanced technical skills and knowledge to implement, monitor and administer IT infrastructure using security best practices, policies and procedures. The new entry-level certification is intended to be a bridge to a cybersecurity career and future certification attainment for new entrants into the field. The SSCP has work/educational prerequisites that are not required for the entry-level certification.

As an employer, what does it mean if a job candidate has this certification?

Those who pass this exam have proven their knowledge, skills and abilities in the fundamentals of cybersecurity. They have a proficient understanding of policies and processes and have demonstrated their commitment to further cybersecurity education and development.

What are the requirements to maintain the Entry-Level Cybersecurity Certification after passing the exam?

Maintenance requirements for the certification will be announced following the completion of the pilot program.