Registering for the Exam

As of June 1, 2012, the CISSP exam is now being administered via computer-based testing (CBT) at local Pearson VUE testing centers worldwide. To register for the exam, go to the (ISC)2 website (www.isc2.org ), click the Certifications tab, click Computer Based Testing (CBT), and then click the Register Now – Pearson VUE button; alternatively, go directly to the Pearson VUE website (http://pearsonvue.com/isc2/ ).

On the Pearson VUE website, you have to create a web account first; then you can register for the CISSP exam, schedule your test, and pay your testing fee. You can also locate a nearby test center, take a Pearson VUE testing tutorial, practice taking the exam (which definitely you should do if you’ve never taken a CBT), and then download the (ISC)2 non-disclosure agreement (NDA).

Download and read the (ISC)2 NDA when you register for the exam. You’re given five minutes to read and accept the agreement at the start of your exam. If you don’t accept the NDA in the allotted five minutes, your exam will end and you forfeit your exam fees!

When you register, you’re required to quantify your work experience in information security, answer a few questions regarding criminal history and related background, and agree to abide by the (ISC)2 Code of Ethics.

The current exam fee in the U.S. is $599. You can cancel or re-schedule your exam by contacting VUE by telephone at least 24 hours in advance of your scheduled exam or online at least 48 hours in advance. The fee to re-schedule is $20.

If you fail to show up for your exam, you’ll forfeit your entire exam fee!

Great news! If you’re a U.S. military veteran and are eligible for Montgomery GI Bill benefits, the Veteran’s Administration (VA) will reimburse you for the full cost of the exam, regardless of whether you pass or fail.