How the plan sets your priorities
Rate how each domain went on your last attempt. If your score report shows results by domain, use them; the planner doesn't need exact scores. So the planner asks you instead: the domains you mark as hard start your plan, mixed ones are strengthened, and confident ones get lighter review. Your answers are a self-assessment, not an official result.
Each domain starts from its share of the exam in the official outline, multiplied by its priority: 3× to start, 2× to strengthen, 1.5× if you leave it blank, and 1× to maintain. A quarter of your time is mixed practice across all domains. This is Passy’s planning method; it doesn’t estimate a score or a chance of passing.
Retake rules for the CSCS
Wait at least 30 days after an attempt before registering again; after three consecutive failed attempts, wait one year. If you pass one section, retake only the failed section, within one year of your first exam date.
- Not a hard attempt cap: after the third consecutive attempt and any later attempt, a one-year wait from the most recent test date applies.
- Retakes are not discounted: both sections $340 member / $475 non-member; one section (retakes only) $250 / $385, as checked on October 24, 2026.
- Exam results are valid for one calendar year; both sections and all eligibility documents (degree transcript, CPR/AED) must be completed within one year of the first exam date.
- Eligibility documents need not be resubmitted for a retake unless CPR/AED has lapsed.
- Each registration gives a 120-day window to test; a $100 extension adds 120 days.
Checked against official sources on October 24, 2026.
Next steps
Check your weakest domain with the free CSCS practice set, or use the CSCS study planner for a first attempt.
Passy is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or approved by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) or Pearson VUE. CSCS® and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist® are registered trademarks of the NSCA and are used here only to identify the exam. Passy practice questions are original study material and contain no NSCA exam items, handbook sample questions, or questions from NSCA quizzes or practice tests.