Taking the Exam
The exam is given year-round at authorized testing centers around the world. That said, many applicants have to travel to get to the nearest authorized testing location.
The exam itself consists of 250 multiple-choice questions, based on the following CISSP domains:
Domain 1. Security and Risk Management
Domain 2. Asset Security
Domain 3. Security Architecture and Engineering
Domain 4. Communication and Network Security
Domain 5. Identity and Access Management (IAM)
Domain 6. Security Assessment and Testing
Domain 7. Security Operations
Domain 8. Software Development Security
Test takers have six hours to complete as many questions correctly as possible. To pass, an applicant must score a minimum of 700 points out of a possible 1,000. If an applicant has studied the testing guide provided by the (ISC)2 or another study organization and taken at least one practice test, the questions should at least be familiar.
You can sign up to take the exam on the Pearson VUE website. Applicants will have to create an account and then follow the prompts to register for the exam. The exam costs $549 if you register early or $599 if you miss the early registration deadline. If you take the exam at a testing location there are several security protocols you must follow such as providing a valid ID; taking nothing with you into the testing location including drinks, cell phones, or books; and only a proctor can let you in or out of the testing facility.
Code of Ethics and Endorsement
After an applicant has taken and passed the CISSP exam, they have to get a written endorsement. The endorsement must come from an active (ISC)2 credential holder who can attest to the applicant’s industry knowledge. Along with this endorsement, applicants must agree to adhere to the code of ethics established by the (ISC)2.
The code is broken down into four canons:
Protect society, the commonwealth, and the infrastructure
Act honorably, honestly, justly, responsibly, and legally
Provide diligent and competent service to principals
Advance and protect the profession
Basically, (ISC)2 members agree to act and perform their duties at the highest level of ethics and integrity. They are bound to treat fellow members, employers, and the public properly and to act truthfully and with solidly ethical actions.