Passed your ISC2 exam and not sure what’s next? This video explains the endorsement process and how to complete your application with ISC2.
Q: Where do I submit my application after I have passed the exam?
A: If you have passed the exam and are within the 9-month timeline, you can submit your application at www.isc2.org/endorsement.
Q: Can I start my certification application if I have not yet passed the exam?
A: If this is your first certification with us, you will be able to start your application once you receive the email informing you that you have successfully passed the exam. If you hold one or more certifications, you may start the application submission process. However, the application cannot be submitted until you receive the email informing you that you have successfully passed the exam.
Q: What are some examples of proof of employment that can be used when asking ISC2 to be my endorser?
A: Documentation must represent the start and end date for each job you wish to put towards your experience. Examples: certificate of employment, military fitness evaluations, several paystubs, HR confirmation of employment, offer letter and termination/company accepted resignation letter.
Q: Do I need to be endorsed for the Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)?
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. If you have passed the CC exam and are within the 9-month timeline since the exam pass, you can submit your application at www.isc2.org/endorsement.
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, or when the application review is completed. We will contact you if additional information is needed during the review process. Please Note: You will receive an email when your application is received by ISC2 (after your endorser finishes their review). The application review typically takes four to six weeks.
Q: Does 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: Documentation will vary. 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. Alternatively, for CISSP ISSAP, ISSEP and ISSMP 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 an ISC2 certification, with the exception of CC, at the current time can endorse a candidate for any certification.
Q: I already hold an ISC2 certification and have passed another ISC2 exam. Do I need to submit another endorsement application?
A: Yes, you will need to submit another endorsement application.
Q: I do not yet have the experience for the certification I have passed the exam for, do I need to submit an application?
A: Yes, you still need to submit application for Associate designation within 9 months of the exam pass. It doesn't require experience, and you can hold Associate designation while you are accumulating your work experience.
Q: Can ISC2 pre-approve my experience before I take the exam?
A: ISC2 does not pre-approve experience. You need to use your professional judgement to determine if you have enough experience in the required domains for the certification you are applying for.
