CC
Certified in Cybersecurity · ISC2
ISC2’s entry-level certification proves that you master the vocabulary and core principles of cybersecurity: security principles and governance, identity and access, network and cloud security, security operations and incident response. ISC2’s free exam programme made it very widespread, so on a CV it signals motivation and a solid foundation rather than expertise. Its strengths are the low barrier and the name of the body behind the CISSP; its limit is that French recruiters rarely ask for it by name and it involves no hands-on work.
- Exam
- Computerised adaptive test (CAT): 100 to 125 questions in 2 h, pass mark 700/1,000. New exam outline since 1 September 2026, the first major update since 2022.
- Exam price
- $199€191.04 in Europe. ISC2’s free One Million CC programme is closed: exam codes already issued must be used by 31 December 2026.
- Required experience
- None: no work experience required.
- Validity and maintenance
- 3-year cycle: 45 CPE credits (15 per year suggested) and an annual maintenance fee of US$50.
- Format
- Adaptive multiple choice
- Recognition
- ISO/IEC 17024 accredited · DoD 8140 approved
Who is it for?
Students, career changers and IT staff (support, development, administration) who want a first recognised milestone in security, with no prior experience.
Domains covered
- Security principles: 24%
- Security governance: 17.3%
- Identity and access management concepts: 20%
- Networking and cloud security concepts: 21.3%
- Security operations and incident response: 17.3%
Belinda’s take
Information checked on 2 October 2026 against the official site. Prices exclude tax and training, and may change.
The certification names mentioned are trademarks of their respective owners. KrakenShield is not affiliated with any certification body and does not reproduce any exam question.
