Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) Exam — NSCA Certification Study Guide
The Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) credential is offered by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and is widely recognized as the premier certification for professionals who design and implement strength and conditioning programs for athletes. The CSCS exam is divided into two sections: Scientific Foundations (1.5 hours, 80 scored multiple-choice questions covering Exercise Science, Sport Psychology, and Nutrition) and Practical/Applied (2.5 hours, 110 scored questions covering Program Design, Exercise Technique, Program Implementation, and Organization/Administration). A scaled score of 70 or higher is required to pass each section. Candidates must have a bachelor's degree (or be a college senior) and current CPR/AED certification to be eligible for certification. The most recent exam data from 2025 shows a 50% pass rate for both sections combined, with Scientific Foundations at 71% and Practical/Applied at 55%. The primary reference text is Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning, 5th Edition, published by NSCA and Human Kinetics
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- October 12, 2026
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