If you are interested in growing your career in cybersecurity, you must consider CISSP certification, one of the most renowned credentials in the field. However, obtaining any certification involves costs, and the CISSP is no exception.
The CISSP certification cost is not cheap and depends on various factors, such as the exam fee, training expenses, and study materials. Understanding these costs is essential to plan your certification journey effectively.
In today’s blog post, I will discuss the CISSP certification cost in detail, helping you understand what to expect and how to prepare financially for this investment.
However, before that, let us know the CISSP certification.
What is the CISSP Certification?
The CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) certification is a globally recognized credential for cybersecurity professionals. It is offered by (ISC)², a leading organization in IT security certifications. The CISSP certification shows you have the skills and knowledge to design, implement, and manage a strong cybersecurity program.
CISSP is popular among IT professionals looking to advance their careers. It covers various topics, including security and risk management, asset security, network security, and software development security.
To earn the CISSP, you must pass a challenging exam and have at least five years of experience in security-related fields. The certification helps professionals build their expertise and improve job opportunities. It also benefits organizations by ensuring skilled employees can handle complex security challenges.
Earning the CISSP is a smart step for anyone serious about cybersecurity.
CISSP Certification Cost
The CISSP certification cost includes three main components:
- Training Cost
- Exam Fee
- Other Costs
Training Cost
You can choose from several training options:
- Traditional classroom learning
- Self-paced online courses
- Live online classes
When enrolling in a training course, ensure it covers the exam content comprehensively. Training costs vary by location, as shown below:
| Location | Course Fee |
| USA/Canada | 2,000 to 3,000 USD |
| India, Pakistan, and other Asian countries | 300 to 600 USD |
| EU | 2,600 to 3,200 USD |
| Saudi Arabia, UAE, and other GCC countries | 800 to 1,300 USD |
| Newzeland, and Australia | 2,000 to 2,600 USD |
Self-paced learning is ideal for busy schedules. Participants can access recorded video sessions at their convenience. Self-paced courses generally cost between 300 and 900 USD, making them more affordable than traditional or live online classes, which range from 600 to 1,500 USD.
While training is not mandatory, it greatly aids in preparing for the exam and understanding its structure.
CISSP Exam Cost
The CISSP exam costs 749 USD, and this fee is uniform worldwide. You can pay via the Pearson VUE website or a registered exam center.
Other Costs
Additional costs include study materials and resources. One of the most popular resources is the “(ISC)2 CISSP Certified Information Systems Security Professional Official Study Guide & Practice Tests Bundle,” priced at 61.99 USD. On average, 50–60 hours of study time are recommended, depending on the individual’s background and experience.
CISSP Certification Renewal Fee
To maintain an active CISSP certification, renewal is required every three years. This involves earning 120 Continuous Professional Education (CPE) credits within three years. Examples of CPE activities include:
- Attending cybersecurity conferences, webinars, or seminars.
- Enrolling in technical or non-technical courses like project management or programming.
A minimum of 40 CPE credits must be earned each year. If credits are not submitted on time, they can still be reported within 90 days after the deadline, provided they were earned before the renewal period ended. Delayed submissions may result in certification revocation.
The cost to renew the CISSP certification is:
- 85 USD per year, or
- 255 USD for three years.
Understanding these costs upfront ensures better planning for achieving and maintaining the CISSP certification.
CISSP Certification Requirements
The CISSP certification has the following requirements:
- Work Experience: You need at least 5 years of paid work experience in information security. This must cover at least two of the eight CISSP domains (e.g., Security Operations, Asset Security, etc.).
- Education Waiver: You can substitute one year of experience with a relevant college degree or an approved certification like CompTIA Security+.
- Exam: You must pass the CISSP exam. It is 3 hours long with 100–150 multiple-choice and advanced questions.
- Endorsement: After passing, you must be endorsed by another (ISC)² certified professional. This confirms your experience.
- Adhere to Code: Agree to the (ISC)² Code of Ethics and rules for professional conduct.
- Maintain Certification: Once certified, you must earn 120 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits over 3 years and pay an annual maintenance fee.
If you don’t meet the experience requirements yet, you can become an “Associate of (ISC)²” by passing the exam and earning experience later.
FAQ
1. Is CISSP Still Worth It?
Yes, the CISSP remains one of the most respected certifications in the cybersecurity industry. It demonstrates advanced expertise in security practices and opens doors to senior-level roles. Employers globally highly value it, often leading to higher salaries and better career opportunities.
2. Can I Pass the CISSP in 3 Months?
While challenging, passing the CISSP in 3 months is achievable with consistent dedication. Candidates need to dedicate significant study time, focus on understanding the eight domains, use quality study materials, and practice with mock exams to reinforce their learning.
3. Is the CISSP Exam Difficult?
Yes, the CISSP exam is considered difficult due to its broad coverage of eight domains, in-depth technical knowledge, and focus on practical scenarios. Proper preparation and familiarity with the exam format are crucial for success.
4. How Long is CISSP Valid For?
The CISSP certification is valid for three years. To maintain it, certified professionals must earn 120 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits during this period and pay the annual maintenance fees.
Summary
The total cost of CISSP certification includes expenses for training, the exam, and related fees, which can vary significantly based on location and program choice. Instructor-led courses are costlier, while self-paced training offers a budget-friendly alternative for those looking to save money. You should factor in costs for study materials, practice exams, and annual membership fees.
Thorough planning and careful selection of resources can help manage expenses effectively. By evaluating options and leveraging self-study where possible, candidates can achieve CISSP certification within their financial means while gaining a globally recognized credential in cybersecurity expertise.
Further Reading:
- What is the CISSP Certification?
- CISSP Certification Requirements: Skills, Experience & Education
- CISSP Domains: A Complete Overview
- 10 Best Online Cybersecurity Courses
References:
I am Mohammad Fahad Usmani, B.E. PMP, PMI-RMP. I have been blogging on project management topics since 2011. To date, thousands of professionals have passed the PMP exam using my resources.
