nYou put in long hours, sleepless nights and bottomless cups of coffee intonstudying for an ISC2 exam like the CISSP or CCSP, only to find out youndidn’t pass. While it’s normal to feel frustrated and disappointed, it’snimportant to move on and make plans for your next sitting. Look at it as anfresh start, and use it as an opportunity for learning, resilience andngrowth. n
nnIn this blog post, we’ll go over six tried-and-tested tips to help you comenback stronger than ever for your next exam sitting.n
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- Take a moment to reflect. First thingsn first, take a deep breath and allow yourself to process your emotions. It’sn okay to feel upset, frustrated or discouraged, but don’t dwell on negativen thoughts. Instead, reflect on your performance. Start by identifying yourn strengths, then consider the areas that need improvement. Self-reflectionn will help you create a solid plan for next time. n
- Commit to your future success. Failing the exam is notn the end of the road, it’s a steppingstone on your path to future success.n ISC2 certifications earn their global reputation as premier credentials duen in large part to their exam rigor. Case in point: CISSP is then most-requested security certification by employers at LinkedIn because theyn know the expertise it represents. Keep in mind, many successfuln cybersecurity professionals take their exams multiple times before passing.n Persistence pays. n
- Analyze your performance.Target yourn study strategy using the summary of your exam results provided by Pearsonn VUE. Once you’ve identified the domains that would benefit from furthern review, use the exam outline and go line by line to dive deep into then content. Home in on the topics and subtopics that proved challenging in yourn most recent sitting. n
- Revamp your study approach. Don’t wait too long aftern your first exam to start studying and training for your next sitting. ISC2n Authorized Instructors recommend jumping back into your exam prep no longern than three months after your most recent sitting, while the content youn previously learned is still top of mind. They caution that, if you wait moren than six months to resume your exam prep, you run the risk of losing then knowledge you previously gained. To find the right fit for your learning needs, explore study resources andn training options. ISC2 offers flexiblen n Online Instructor-Ledn n andn n Online Self-Pacedn n Training to help you build the knowledge and confidence you need leading upn to the exam. Instructors recommend using training or more intensiven bootcamps as your last steps before your exam. They’re most effective whenn used to reinforce what you’ve already learned and to answer any questions. Take time to build your knowledge independently as well. From textbooks andn study guides to interactive flash cards and study apps, ISC2 has then n self-study resourcesn n that will support your learning. n
- Seek support. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. Reach out to fellow exam takers,n mentors or industry professionals through your localn n ISC2 Chaptern n and online in the ISC2 Communityn n study groups.n n They know where you’re coming from and can offer valuable insights, studyn tips and moral support to keep you motivated. Remember, even superheroesn have sidekicks! If you continue to have lingering questions, watch one of ourn n Exam Ready webinars,n n where our expert panels answer common inquiries about the course content andn exam. Another great resource to check out for study tips is ourn n Exam Prep Hackedn n webinar. n
- Embrace a growth mindset. Believe that you are capable of achieving your goals. Surround yourself withn positive influences and motivational resources to keep your spirits high.n Take the time right now to get your next exam on the calendar.* When youn commit to a deadline, you create a clear timeline. And with your exam on then calendar, you’re on track to stay motivated.n n Book your exam now. You’ve got this! With a solid study plan, you’ll be well on your way ton achieving your professional goals. n
n* Important exam retake information:
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- If you don’t pass the exam on your first attempt, you may retestn after 30 test-free days. n
- If you don’t pass the exam on your second attempt, you may retestn after 60 test-free days from your most recent exam attempt. n
- If you don’t pass the exam on your third attempt and for alln subsequent retakes, you may retest after 90 test-free days from your mostn recent exam attempt. n
- For each certification, you may attempt to pass the exam up to fourn times within a 12-month period. n