CSCS FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about the CSCS.
What jobs can you get as a CSCS?
A Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification is often preferred or required for athletic training roles. CSCS jobs include:
- Assistant, associate, or head strength and conditioning coach or coordinator
- Performance coach, sports performance coach, or director of sport or high performance
- Physical education instructor
- Assistant, associate, or director of strength and conditioning
- Assistant or head athletic director
Strength and conditioning specialists work in many settings, such as schools, with professional sports teams, healthcare facilities, and training centers for tactical professionals.
What are the requirements for a CSCS certification?
To obtain a National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) certification, which requires passing the CSCS exam, there are certain steps and requirements you must fulfill:
- You must have a Bachelor's degree or higher or be enrolled as a college senior at an accredited institution. Candidates must submit an official transcript to the NSCA's headquarters. Candidates in the U.S. and Canada may submit a terminal degree in physical therapy or chiropractic medicine granted by an accredited institution instead.
- You must have a CPR/AED certification. You can still register for the exam if you currently do not have a CPR/AED certification, but you must get your certification and send a copy within one year of the exam date.
- Finally, you must achieve a passing score of 70 or above on the CSCS exam.
By meeting these criteria and successfully passing the CSCS exam, you will become a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist.
Do I need to be part of NSCA to become a CSCS?
No, you don't need to be a member of the NSCA to take the CSCS exam and become a certified strength and conditioning professional. However, if you do become a member, you can take your exam at a $135 discount and have access to free continuing education. Visit the official NSCA website to learn more about NSCA membership.
How often is the CSCS offered?
The CSCS is typically offered year-round, and candidates can schedule their CSCS exam at a time and location that is convenient for them based on test center availability.
How many times can I retake the CSCS?
You can retake the CSCS as many times as you need; however, there is a 30-day waiting period between each attempt. You must pay a retake fee of $340 for NSCA members and $475 for non-members if you are retaking both sections (same price as an exam registration fee). You have the option of retaking only 1 section if needed for $250 for members or $385 for non-members. Review the NSCA's exam retake policies.
What is the CSCS pass rate?
In 2024, 9,166 candidates took the CSCS exam with a passing rate of 39%. 66% of test takers passed the Scientific Foundations section, and 46% passed the Practical/Applied section.
While the CSCS is known for its difficulty and rigor, setting up a detailed and attainable study schedule, nailing your fundamentals of exercise science, and taking practice exams regularly will prepare you to ace the test.
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