According to the most recent ISC2 Cybersecurity Workforce Study, cloud computing security is the highest-ranking technical skill hiring managers are looking for when filling roles. For many ISC2 members - particularly those who hold the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) - the Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) is their next step. ISC2's commitment to the cybersecurity community is to meet this critical demand by providing a fair, valid, reliable, and efficient exam administration process.
This year, the CCSP examination - along with Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) and Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) - will mirror the CISSP testing format and begin examination delivery in a Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) format. The transition to CAT is an important investment in the future certification program and provides numerous benefits to candidates including:
- A more precise and efficient evaluation of a candidate's competency
- More opportunities for examination administration
- Enhanced exam security
On October 1, 2025, the CCSP examination will evolve from a linear, fixed format to a CAT format. This change means that each CCSP examination will be uniquely tailored to the aptitude of an individual candidate. The exam essentially responds to your demonstrated proficiency among the six domains listed in the CCSP exam outline:
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If Your CCSP Exam is Scheduled
If you already have your CCSP exam scheduled for a date before October 1, this change will not impact you. If your exam is scheduled for October 1 or beyond, the change to the exam format does not mean you need to adjust the way you are preparing or make changes to your scheduled appointment. Despite the format update, the CCSP exam will remain at a time limit of 3 hours, and you will have between 100-150 items to answer.
Preparing for CCSP
If you are currently studying for the CCSP exam and looking for connection, be sure to join the CCSP Study Group on the ISC2 Community. We also recommend watching the CCSP Info Session webinar on how Official ISC2 Training flexes with your learning style, what to expect on exam day, how to become endorsed and maintain your certification, and more. If you haven’t decided on a training type yet, or would like to learn about the CCSP training options, check out 3 Ways to Train for CCSP.
Starting Your CCSP Journey
If you haven’t yet begun your CCSP journey and are looking for more information, get started with The Ultimate Guide to the CCSP today. There are also many benefits including training discounts when you become an ISC2 Candidate, free for the first year. Don’t forget, if you already hold an ISC2 certification, you’re eligible for 20% off online self-paced training from ISC2.
For more information on CAT, please refer to www.isc2.org/certifications/computerized-adaptive-testing