About the CSCS

CSCS Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist

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1 Introduction

About the CSCS Exam Structure and Content Breakdown Pass Rates and Scoring How to Use This Guide

2 Exercise Science

Muscular and Neuromuscular Systems Skeletal and Cardiovascular Systems Bioenergetics and Metabolism Biomechanics Physiological Adaptations to Training

3 Sport Psychology & Nutrition

Motivation and Goal Setting Arousal, Anxiety, and Performance Mental Skills and Team Dynamics Macronutrients and Energy Hydration, Timing, and Supplements

4 Exercise Technique

Resistance Training Technique Olympic Lifting Technique Plyometric and Speed Training Flexibility and Warm-up Spotting and Equipment Safety

5 Program Design

Needs Analysis and Training Goals Training Variables Periodization Models Resistance Training Program Design Speed, Agility, and Conditioning Programs

6 Testing, Evaluation & Administration

Pre-Participation Screening Cardiovascular and Body Composition Testing Strength, Power, and Speed Testing Flexibility Assessment Facility Management and Legal Issues

About the CSCS

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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.

Last updated: January 2026

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

CSCS Exam Question Distribution by Section (%)

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