CISSP Guide: Domains, Adaptive Testing and Registration

Last checked: 4 November 2026. Plan against the ISC2 outline effective 15 April 2024. The next outline takes effect on 15 April 2027.

How the exam works

CISSP uses adaptive testing with 100–150 items in three hours, combining multiple-choice and advanced item types. You cannot review an answer after submitting it. The minimum-length exam includes 25 unscored pretest items that cannot be identified. Breaks use examination time.

The listed passing grade is 700 out of 1000. This does not establish a required 70% correct: CAT estimates ability relative to a passing standard. Read ISC2’s CAT rules before your appointment.

The eight domains

Using this practice bank

This is supplementary multiple-choice practice with explanations for every option. It does not reproduce the adaptive algorithm or every advanced item type. Your practice percentage helps select topics to revisit; it does not convert to an ISC2 score or reliably predict your examination result.

Start with 10 free questions, then revisit concepts behind your errors. Explain why the alternatives fail and use flashcards to retain terminology. Allocate time to every domain and increase attention to weaker areas, rather than relying only on your professional specialty.

Language, experience and registration

ISC2 lists English, Chinese, German, Japanese and Spanish. Arabic here supports study; it is neither an available CISSP exam language nor an ISC2-authorized translation.

Certification requires five cumulative years of experience in at least two domains. A qualifying degree or credential may waive at most one year; two waivers cannot be combined. You may pass before completing experience and follow the Associate of ISC2 route, with six years to obtain it. Check the 2026 experience and waiver requirements.

The published Middle East exam fee is USD 749; tax and currency depend on the exam location. Check the pricing page and Pearson checkout total. Purchase through your ISC2 account, then schedule through Courses and Exams. Your name must exactly match identification. Confirm location, language, available appointments and instructions before finalizing.