How to Prepare for the CSCS Exam
One of the most common questions received is, "How do I prepare for the CSCS® exam"? Preparation for the NSCA’s certification exams begins with a plan. The following steps provide you with a set of recommendations that may need modification based on your specific background: no one set of recommendations or resources can meet the needs of each individual.
Step 1: Planning
- Ensure that you choose the right certification based on the population you will work with. The CSCS is for those working with athletes.
- Review the requirements for this certification here. Passing the exam is only one of the requirements.
- Read the NSCA Certification Handbook to understand the examination process and to review the CSCS Detailed Content Outline (DCO) upon which the exam is based.
- Talk to people with similar backgrounds who have passed the exam to get insights on what worked for them.
- Utilizing the table provided, determine how much time is recommended for studying based on your background and set a target date for your exam.
- Build a weekly study schedule.
Step 2: Get Your Study Materials
- The CSCS Study Guide, based on the CSCS Detailed Content Outline, will provide study guidance, help you understand the exam's design and structure, and allow you to assess your knowledge as you prepare.
- The NSCA’s Essentials of Strength and Conditioning (4th edition) is an excellent resource for those preparing for the CSCS. This text has been developed to align with the DCO and aid your preparation.
- For a full list of NSCA resources and their descriptions:
Note: Professional certification exams do not assess your ability to memorize and recall content found within the materials, but your ability to apply the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to practice in the specified profession.
Additional Resources for gaining knowledge and experience:
Become a NSCA Member and receive the following benefits:
- Gain access to NSCA journals.
- Gain access to NSCA TV, where you can stream exclusive NSCA videos, educational resources, and live events.
- Save money on the purchase of materials and the exam.
- Earn free CEUs to help maintain certification(s).
Step 3: Study
Note: The following recommendations include the use of NSCA Official Materials. The NSCA does not require, provide, nor endorse any specific study guides, preparation materials, or review courses. Candidates who choose to use and/or purchase NSCA preparatory materials are not guaranteed a passing score on certification exams offered by the NSCA.
- Review the CSCS to identify the specific domains, subdomains, and tasks being assessed on the exam.
- Review the recommendations for preparation in the CSCS Study Guide.
- Utilize the self-assessment steps to determine what you need to study and whether there are knowledge, skills, or abilities that need extra focus.
- Complete a practice test as a preassessment to identify additional areas of concern. The NSCA’s CSCS Quizzes and Practice Test product contains a full-length test similar in design and content to the certification exam. Note: Practice tests should not be used as learning tools, but as a gauge of depth of preparation for the real exam. Therefore, answers are not provided for practice test questions.
- Develop a study schedule; study all content emphasizing areas of challenge presented during the self-assessment and practice test. Study recommendations:
- Answer the open-ended questions found in the CSCS Study Guide.
- Complete domain-specific quizzes if using the NSCA’s CSCS Quizzes and Practice Test.
- Enhance your knowledge and skills by reviewing topic-specific webinars, articles, and references.
- Recommended option: Attend a CSCS Exam Prep Live Clinic and receive a comprehensive review of the exam's content areas.
- Complete a practice test again to gauge your readiness for the exam.
- Decide if further study of the exam preparation materials is needed; if not, register to take your exam.
Good Luck!
Additional Resources
CSCS Exam Prep Live Clinic
Are you looking for assistance in studying and preparing for the NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) exams? Check out NSCA Exam Prep Live Clinics! Live educational clinics are offered both online and in-person. The in-person events include time for hands-on practice in the weight room.
CSCS Exam Prep Facebook Study Group
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