Key Takeaways
- The CSCS is the premier certification for strength and conditioning professionals working with athletes.
- Exam has 220 questions (190 scored) in 4 hours across two sections: Scientific Foundations and Practical/Applied.
- Requires a bachelor's degree (any field) and CPR/AED certification with hands-on component.
- Passing score is 70 (scaled); 41% pass rate for both sections combined (2024 data).
- Exam costs \$340 for NSCA members or \$475 for non-members.
About the CSCS Exam
Quick Answer: The CSCS is a 4-hour, 220-question exam administered by the NSCA with two sections: Scientific Foundations (1.5 hours) and Practical/Applied (2.5 hours). Requires a bachelor's degree and CPR/AED certification. Passing score is 70 (scaled), with a 41% overall pass rate. Cost is $340 (members) or $475 (non-members).
The CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) is administered by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and is considered the gold standard certification for professionals who train athletes to improve athletic performance.
Exam Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist |
| Administered By | NSCA via Pearson VUE testing centers |
| Total Questions | 220 multiple-choice (190 scored + 30 unscored) |
| Time Limit | 4 hours total |
| Passing Score | 70 (scaled score) |
| Cost | $340 (NSCA members) / $475 (non-members) |
| Pass Rate (2024) | 41% (both sections) |
| Validity | 3 years (recertification required) |
The Two Exam Sections
| Section | Scored Questions | Unscored | Time | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scientific Foundations | 80 | 15 | 1.5 hours | Exercise science, psychology, nutrition |
| Practical/Applied | 110 | 15 | 2.5 hours | Technique, program design, testing |
Important: You must pass BOTH sections to earn the CSCS credential. Each section can be taken separately if needed.
What the CSCS Qualifies You For
The CSCS certification qualifies you to:
- Work with athletes at all levels (high school, college, professional, Olympic)
- Design training programs for athletic performance enhancement
- Conduct fitness assessments and performance testing
- Work in athletic settings (sports teams, athletic departments, training facilities)
- Apply sport-specific training principles and periodization
CSCS vs. Other Certifications
| Certification | Focus | Primary Clientele |
|---|---|---|
| CSCS | Athletic performance | Athletes, sports teams |
| NSCA-CPT | General fitness | General population |
| ACE-CPT | Personal training | General population |
| ACSM-CEP | Clinical exercise | Medical/rehab patients |
Who Should Pursue the CSCS?
The CSCS is ideal for:
- Athletic trainers looking to add strength and conditioning expertise
- College strength coaches working with athletic programs
- Professional team staff seeking credentials
- Personal trainers wanting to specialize in athletic populations
- Exercise science graduates entering the strength and conditioning field
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor's degree (any field) OR enrolled as college senior |
| CPR/AED | Current certification with hands-on training component |
| Timeline | Must complete requirements within 1 year of exam date |
Note: Online-only CPR certifications are NOT accepted. The certification must include a hands-on training component.
2030 Eligibility Change
Starting January 1, 2030:
- US candidates must hold a bachelor's degree from a CASCE-accredited program
- International candidates have until January 2036
- Current CSCS holders are not affected—standard recertification continues