3 Myth-Busting Facts about (ISC)² Certification Training

Misinformation is dangerous. It not only leads to wrong decision-making, it can cost you money. (ISC)² certifications are highly regarded in cybersecurity, and you’ll find many training companies out there offering exam prep. But beware of the myths — not all providers are equally qualified to help you prepare for (ISC)² certification. Check the facts before signing up.

1. Is all (ISC)²  certification training endorsed by (ISC)² ? NO!
If you do a Google search for (ISC)²  certification training – especially CISSP –  you’ll come across pages and pages of companies promising to help you pass the exam. You might assume (ISC)²  endorses all of them but that’s not the case — we only work with select education partners worldwide. (ISC)²  Official Training Partners are required to have their instructors to undergo a strict verification process and hold the credential they teach. If you’re unsure whether a provider is officially endorsed, search the  (ISC)² Official Training Partners webpage or look for the Official Training Partner or International Academic Program logos.

2. Can everyone provide exam vouchers with training? NO!
Candidates be warned: some unauthorized trainers employ dubious tactics, offering exam vouchers to unsuspecting individuals. For example, they may ask for your Pearson VUE password or offer exam vouchers as part of a training bundle. Never disclose your credentials — it violates the terms of your  (ISC)² Non-Disclosure Agreement, putting your certification or exam qualification at risk. Only (ISC)²  and our Official Training Partners are authorized to offer exam vouchers with exam prep, and we will never ask you to disclose your password.

3. Can trainers guarantee (ISC)²  certification exam pass rates? NO!
Many trainers make false claims, guaranteeing high exam pass rates. The fact is, no one knows the exact questions on the exam, and no one can guarantee a pass rate. That’s because (ISC)² certification exams are constantly updated to reflect evolving needs in cybersecurity. Also know that  (ISC)² does not disclose pass-rate information to training providers — not even to our authorized partners. To help assure you’re ready on exam day, thoroughly study the topics covered in each of the credential’s domains. 

Know the Facts
One way  (ISC)² Official Training Partners set you up for success is by teaching with courseware that reflects the certification’s Common Body of Knowledge (CBK®). Because (ISC)²  is the creator of the CISSP CBK®, our authorized educators always have access to the most current course materials. Only (ISC)² and our Official Training Partners offer Official (ISC)² Courseware.

Exams for  (ISC)² certifications, including CISSP, are experienced-based assessments. They require not only the knowledge but the judgement that comes with years of practice in the field. Official education provides an in-depth review of the concepts covered in the exam outline. It helps you strengthen your critical thinking skills so you can apply your real-world knowledge during the exam.   

Remember, passing the exam isn’t the only goal at stake. (ISC)²  is here to support you beyond the initial preparation by providing continuing professional education and opportunities to contribute your knowledge back to your peers. 

Whether you choose Official Online Instructor-Led Training, Official Online Self-Paced Training or Classroom-Based Training, making decisions using reliable knowledge will help make the journey toward  (ISC)² certification a positive one. Always know the facts!