How much does it cost to get CISSP?

Taking the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) exam in 2025 isn't just about gauging if you have the expertise—it's also about understanding the financial commitment. From exam fees to training materials and ongoing certification costs, getting CISSP certified is an investment in your cybersecurity career.

In this guide, we'll break down the complete cost of getting and maintaining your CISSP certification, along with insights on maximizing your investment's value.

Breaking Down the CISSP Certification Investment

The cost of getting a CISSP certification involves several components, and it goes beyond the exam fee that many initially consider. From training classes to books and even those supplementary resources that give you an edge, every expense counts.

After all, investing wisely means giving yourself the best shot at acing that exam on your very first attempt.

Let's break down the different expenses you’ll incur:

CISSP Exam fee

It’s precisely what its name suggests–the cost to take the CISSP exam. Think of it as buying a ticket to a show. Only in this case, the show is an opportunity for you to strut your stuff and prove that you've got what it takes to earn that coveted CISSP certification. Before you even get to the actual content of the exam, this fee is your gateway, your admission ticket.

Here’s how much you’ll pay for the test:

Pro tip before you pay for the exam: ensure you meet the CISSP experience requirements and familiarize yourself with what's expected in the CISSP exam. You don't want any surprises after making that investment!

CISSP Training and Preparation Costs

Let’s get one thing straight: the exam fee isn't your only investment in this journey. While it's your gateway to flaunting your cybersecurity prowess, the right preparation and comprehensive training materials are equally critical. Often, obtaining these resources might mean parting with some cash.

While there's no shortage of free training and resources, they can sometimes be superficial or overlook key subjects. Relying on them feels like navigating with a map that omits vital routes when you're already behind schedule. So, how do you ensure you're fully equipped? The answer lies in investing in in-depth training classes and materials. We’ll break them down for you.

In-person training cost

In-person classes are perfect for those who thrive on face-to-face learning and appreciate a structured environment. These sessions offer direct interaction with instructors and peers, which can be beneficial for discussing complex topics and providing immediate feedback. However, the costs can be significant:

• Course Fees: Typically range from $2,000 to $5,000 depending on the provider and the length of the course.
• Travel and Accommodation: If the training isn't local, you might need to budget for travel and hotel stays, adding another $500 to $1,500.
• Time Investment: These courses usually follow a set schedule, which might require you to take time off work.

Do note that this type of training runs on a set schedule. Missing a class can be as disruptive as skipping a pivotal chapter right before a major test.

Online training cost

Online CISSP training can be a more flexible and cost-effective option for many, especially those courses crafted to align seamlessly with your current proficiency level. Think of them as dedicated tutors right on your screen, adapting to your learning pace and preferences. This flexibility means that whether you prefer burning the midnight oil or dedicating your weekends, your training molds around your availability. Here’s what you might expect:

• Course Fees: Generally between $600 to $5,000, depending on the depth and duration of the course.
• Subscription Models: Some platforms offer monthly or yearly subscriptions ranging from $30 to $100 per month, which might include access to a variety of courses and additional resources.
• Installment Options: Some course providers allow students to pay for their courses in installments, making it easier to manage the cost over time. This can be particularly helpful if you’re balancing other financial commitments.
• Flexibility: The biggest advantage is the ability to study at your own pace, fitting your studies around your personal and professional life.

Bootcamp cost

Bootcamps are intensive, short-term training programs designed to prepare you for the CISSP exam in a condensed time frame. These are ideal for individuals who need a structured environment and can dedicate full-time hours for a short period. However, they come with their own set of costs:

• Course Fees: Typically range from $3,000 to $7,000 for a week-long intensive course.
• Travel and Accommodation: Similar to in-person training, if the bootcamp is not local or online, you’ll need to factor in these additional costs, potentially adding $500 to $1,500.
• Time Investment: Bootcamps require a full-time commitment for their duration, which means you’ll need to take time off work.

Study material

So, you’ve factored in the exam fee and allocated funds for comprehensive training materials. You're on the right track, but hold up; there’s more to the CISSP certification cost. Beyond your primary investments, there are tons of supplementary tools that can help you prepare better for your exam. And as you might have guessed, these, too, can also add up to your total bill.

These aren't just fancy extras; they’re essential. For example, investing in different CISSP books depending on your study phase can help streamline your preparation. New to the CISSP journey? An official study guide might be your go-to. For those in the final sprint, a concise CISSP guidebook can help tighten loose ends.

Then, there are practice tests. Think of them as trial runs before the big day. If you're feeling confident about the exam, these tests can either bolster that confidence or give you a reality check on areas needing more attention.

In short, while sketching out your CISSP budget, don’t just stop at the basics. These additional resources, although an added expense, can be the difference between a pass or a retake, and no one wants the latter.

Renewal and maintenance costs

Think you’re done with expenses after getting CISSP-certified? Not quite. It's not only the upfront CISSP certification costs that should be on your radar. After you've celebrated passing that challenging exam, there's the business of maintaining your certification. And yes, that comes with its own set of costs.

Annual membership fees

For your CISSP renewal, you need an annual fee of $125. This ensures that your CISSP certification remains active and, more importantly, gives you entry into the ISC2 community.

With this membership, you're in for some serious perks like opportunities for professional growth, networking with the industry’s finest, exclusive invites to the ISC2 Security Congress, discounts, and much more.

Costs associated with acquiring CPE credits

Continuing Professional Education (CPE) is a pivotal element for CISSP holders. CPE credits represent the effort and initiative taken by professionals to keep their knowledge sharp and up-to-date. It is also needed to maintain the certification itself.

While you can't exactly pluck CPE credits off a store shelf, gathering these credits might require you to dip into your pockets. The ways to earn CPE credits are diverse: from attending training and seminars, enrolling in courses, to even volunteering.

Let's say you opt to earn them via seminars–that ticket price? Yes, that's going to be part of your CPE credits cost. In essence, while the path to acquiring CPEs can be flexible, it's essential to factor in potential expenses as you map out your CISSP journey.

However, when you stack these maintenance costs against the avalanche of CISSP career benefits, they seem like a drop in the ocean. After all, investing in oneself always pays the best interest, right?

Other hidden costs

When it comes to getting your CISSP, the costs aren’t just limited to what meets the eye. Some sneaky expenses tend to fly under the radar, but trust us; they’re there!

Travel and miscellaneous expenses

We’re not implying you’re setting out for a tropical escapade, but think about it: the to-and-fros to the exam center, the food you might grab en route, and if you've opted for in-person training sessions, there's a decent chance your commute and lunch aren't on the house. Those seemingly minor expenditures? Yes, they add up.

Retakes and cancellations

Life’s unpredictable. Maybe you weren’t feeling 100% on the day of the exam, or some unavoidable circumstances popped up. If you need to reschedule your CISSP test, there’s a fee attached: $50 / 35£ / 40€. Decided to cancel? That’ll be $100 / 70£ / 80€. These aren’t astronomical sums, but they’re significant enough to make one take pause.

So, when mapping out your CISSP budget, it pays to think of these not-so-obvious costs. It's always better to have a holistic view of the financial landscape ahead, ensuring no unexpected hitches along the way.

What is the total cost of CISSP?

Gearing up for the CISSP exam isn’t just a test of your cybersecurity knowledge; it's also a financial commitment. Understanding the full scope of costs involved can help you budget effectively and choose the preparation path that best suits your needs and lifestyle. Let’s dive into some scenarios to give you a clearer picture of what you might expect to spend.

Scenario One: In-Person Classes + Exam Cost + Other Study Materials

In-person classes are great for those who thrive in a structured, interactive environment with direct access to instructors and peers. However, this option can be on the pricier side. Here’s a breakdown of the cost:

Scenario Two: Online Class + Exam Cost + Other Study Materials

Online classes offer flexibility and often come at a lower cost compared to in-person training. This option is perfect for those who need to fit their study schedule around other commitments.
Let’s look at how much this will cost you:

Scenario Three: Destination Certification Class + Exam Cost

Destination Certification offers an all-in-one training course that includes everything you need to pass the CISSP exam, designed for those who want a comprehensive, streamlined approach. This means that you don’t have to buy any additional study materials like books, practice tests, flashcards, and other resources you need to prepare for the exam.

The best part? This course comes with your own personal CISSP mentor who will guide you through your journey. Here’s how much this will cost you:

Pro tip: While your exam fee gets you in the game, your preparation and training decide how well you play. So, while considering the costs, ensure you factor in quality training to truly make your investment count!

CISSP Career Value and Benefits

After breaking down all those certification costs, you might be wondering if CISSP is worth the investment. Think of it as investing in a career upgrade rather than just paying for a certification. Let's dig into what this investment can mean for your professional future.

Career Growth and Salary Potential

The cybersecurity job market shows remarkable demand for CISSP-certified professionals, with over 70,082 job openings in the US alone requiring the certification. This high demand isn't surprising, given that CISSP holders demonstrate mastery across eight crucial security domains that organizations desperately need in today's threat landscape.

When it comes to compensation, CISSP-certified professionals command an average salary of $120,552 in the US. However, this figure can vary significantly based on several factors. Location plays a crucial role—metropolitan areas and tech hubs typically offer higher salaries to offset increased living costs. Industry sectors also influence compensation, with finance, healthcare, and technology often providing more competitive packages. Your years of experience, additional certifications, and specific technical expertise can further impact your earning potential.

Position Opportunities

CISSP opens doors to various senior-level positions, such as:

• Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
• Security Architect
• Security Manager
• Security Consultant
• Senior Security Analyst

Industry Recognition

The widespread recognition of CISSP speaks volumes about its value in the industry. The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) formally recognizes it as a baseline certification for both technical and managerial positions, meeting the requirements for DOD Directive 8570.1. This government validation extends beyond the US, as the certification holds international accreditation under ISO/IEC Standard 17024, making it valuable for global career opportunities.

The certification's recognition isn't limited to government sectors. Major corporations worldwide actively seek CISSP holders for their security teams, particularly when dealing with compliance requirements and security frameworks. This broad acceptance across industries and borders means your investment in CISSP can open doors internationally, whether you're looking to work with government agencies, multinational corporations, or consulting firms.

Comparing CISSP Costs with Other Security Certifications

When planning your certification budget, it's helpful to understand how CISSP's costs measure up against other popular security certifications. This perspective can help you make an informed decision about where to invest your training dollars.

Here's how CISSP's total investment compares to other popular security certifications:

All these certifications can enhance your cybersecurity career, but each serves different professional goals. For instance, CISSP is ideal if you're aiming for senior security management roles, while CCSP specifically targets cloud security expertise. CISM focuses on information security management from a business perspective, and Security+ provides a solid foundation for those starting their cybersecurity journey. CISA, on the other hand, specializes in audit and assurance roles.

So while cost is an important factor, it's crucial to weigh these different focuses against your career goals when making your certification decision.

Reducing CISSP Costs

If you think that getting a CISSP is expensive or out of your budget, there are ways to help reduce the cost of the investment. Here are some strategies to make your CISSP certification journey more affordable:

Utilize Free Resources

You’d be surprised at how much valuable information is available for free online. Websites, forums, and study groups can provide you with insights and study materials without breaking the bank. Just be sure to verify the credibility of your sources to ensure you’re getting accurate, up-to-date information.

Opt for Online Training

Online training often comes at a lower cost compared to in-person courses and offers the added benefit of flexibility. This means you can save on travel and accommodation costs while still accessing high-quality material. At Destination Certification, our online courses are designed to give you comprehensive coverage of the CISSP exam content, all at a fraction of the cost of traditional training.

Seek Employer Sponsorship

It’s always worth checking if your employer offers any professional development sponsorships. Many companies are willing to invest in their employees’ education, especially for something as valuable as CISSP certification. Have a chat with your HR department or manager to explore this possibility.

Early-Bird Discounts and Scholarships

Don’t miss out on discounts and scholarships! Training providers, including ISC2, often offer early-bird pricing or scholarships that can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses. Keep an eye out for these opportunities to save some cash.

Choose an All-In-One Course

Opting for an all-in-one training course can also be a cost-effective strategy. These courses, like our CISSP MasterClass, bundle together all necessary study materials, practice tests, and additional resources into one package. This not only simplifies the process but can also save you money compared to purchasing each component separately.

With an all-in-one course, you get everything you need to prepare for the exam, often including mentorship and extended access to resources, making it a comprehensive and budget-friendly option.

Frequently asked questions

Invest in your cybersecurity career now!

Getting your CISSP certification represents a significant investment – both in terms of money and effort. While the costs might seem substantial initially, the potential returns through career advancement, increased earning potential, and broader job opportunities can make it a worthwhile investment in your professional future.

Remember, the key is to plan your certification journey strategically. Whether you're self-funding or seeking employer sponsorship, take advantage of cost-saving opportunities while ensuring you're well-prepared for the exam. After all, passing on your first attempt is the most cost-effective strategy.

If you're ready to start your CISSP journey, let Destination Certification be your guide. From our online training course to our numerous supplementary resources like our Flashcard app and Practice Questions app, we ensure that you’re well-equipped to pass the test on your first attempt.

With us, you're not just prepping for an exam; you're embracing a brighter, more secure future in your cybersecurity career.