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Key Facts: CSCS Exam
~56%
First-Time Pass Rate
NSCA
200 Qs
Scored Questions
Two sections
200-300 hrs
Study Time
Recommended
50,000+
Active CSCS Holders
NSCA
$395
Exam Fee
NSCA members
4 hrs
Time Limit
Both sections
The CSCS exam has a first-time pass rate of approximately 56% (NSCA data). The exam has two sections: Scientific Foundations (80 questions) and Practical/Applied (120 questions), totaling 200 scored questions plus 40 unscored. A bachelor's degree is required to sit for the exam. CSCS-certified professionals earn a median salary of $49,000-55,000, with collegiate and professional sports positions paying $60,000-85,000+. There are over 50,000 active CSCS holders worldwide.
About the CSCS Exam
The CSCS certification from the NSCA is the gold standard for strength and conditioning professionals who work with athletes. The exam covers exercise science, nutrition, program design, and testing & evaluation across two sections: Scientific Foundations and Practical/Applied.
Questions
200 scored questions
Time Limit
4 hours
Passing Score
Scaled (~70%)
Exam Fee
$395 (NSCA (Pearson VUE))
CSCS Exam Content Outline
Exercise Science
Muscular, cardiovascular, and respiratory physiology, biomechanics, energy systems
Nutrition
Macronutrients, supplements, hydration, body composition, weight management
Program Design
Resistance training, plyometrics, speed/agility, aerobic training, periodization
Testing & Evaluation
Fitness testing protocols, performance assessment, body composition measurement
How to Pass the CSCS Exam
What You Need to Know
- Passing score: Scaled (~70%)
- Exam length: 200 questions
- Time limit: 4 hours
- Exam fee: $395
Keys to Passing
- Complete 500+ practice questions
- Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
- Focus on highest-weighted sections
- Use our AI tutor for tough concepts
CSCS Study Tips from Top Performers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CSCS pass rate?
The CSCS exam has a first-time pass rate of approximately 56%. The exam has two sections: Scientific Foundations (80 scored questions) and Practical/Applied (120 scored questions). You can take sections separately or together. Each section has its own passing score based on scaled scoring.
How hard is the CSCS exam?
The CSCS is considered one of the most challenging fitness certifications with its 56% pass rate. Program Design (40% of Practical section) is the largest and most complex area. You need strong knowledge of exercise science, periodization models, and sport-specific training. Plan for 200-300 hours of study.
What are the CSCS exam requirements?
To sit for the CSCS, you need: (1) a bachelor's degree (any field) or be enrolled in the last semester of a bachelor's program, (2) current CPR/AED certification, and (3) be at least 18 years old. No prior work experience in strength and conditioning is required.
What is the difference between CSCS and CPT?
CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) is designed for professionals working with athletes in sport performance settings. NSCA-CPT (Certified Personal Trainer) is for working with the general population. CSCS requires a bachelor's degree; CPT requires only a high school diploma. CSCS covers periodization, plyometrics, and sport-specific training in much greater depth.
How much do CSCS professionals earn?
CSCS-certified professionals earn a median salary of $49,000-55,000 overall. Collegiate strength coaches earn $50,000-75,000, while head strength coaches at Division I programs earn $80,000-150,000+. Professional sports positions can pay $100,000+. Private sector S&C coaches earn $45,000-80,000.