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ISC2 Certified in Governance Risk and Compliance CGRC Quick Facts
The ISC2 Certified in Governance Risk and Compliance (CGRC) certification opens doors for professionals who want to lead with confidence in security and privacy governance. This exam overview equips you with the essential insights and structure you need to understand the certification’s scope, purpose, and exam content with clarity.
How the CGRC Certification Strengthens Your Expertise in Governance, Risk, and Compliance
The ISC2 CGRC certification showcases your ability to apply risk management and compliance principles to modern information systems. It validates your capability to develop, implement, and maintain frameworks for both security and privacy across their entire lifecycle. From identifying controls to maintaining ongoing compliance, CGRC professionals play a vital role in ensuring organizations align with regulatory and security standards.
This certification is ideal for information security, risk management, and compliance professionals who value organizational trust, transparency, and accountability. It demonstrates to employers and peers that you can manage system authorization, assess risk posture, and lead compliance strategies grounded in recognized global standards.
Who Should Pursue the ISC2 Certified in Governance Risk and Compliance (CGRC) Certification?
The ISC2 Certified in Governance, Risk and Compliance (CGRC) certification is perfect for professionals eager to demonstrate their expertise in aligning information security with organizational risk and compliance objectives. It fits both seasoned practitioners and rising professionals focused on risk-based cybersecurity management.
Individuals in roles such as Cybersecurity Auditor, GRC Analyst, Risk Manager, Information Assurance Officer, or Compliance Officer will find this certification especially beneficial. Earning your CGRC showcases your ability to integrate governance and compliance frameworks into strategic business operations—an invaluable skill in today’s data-driven, regulated environments.
What career opportunities can the CGRC unlock?
Earning your CGRC credential opens doors to numerous roles that focus on cybersecurity governance and regulatory alignment. Certified professionals often move into impactful positions such as:
- Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) Manager
- Cybersecurity Risk Analyst or Consultant
- Information Assurance Manager
- Enterprise or Risk Architect
- Security and Privacy Compliance Specialist
These positions span both public and private sectors, helping organizations protect assets, reduce risk, and demonstrate regulatory accountability.
What is the current exam version and code?
The latest exam for ISC2 Certified in Governance, Risk and Compliance is identified by the exam code CGRC. ISC2 continually updates its exams through a Job Task Analysis (JTA) process that ensures the test aligns with real-world expectations and evolving industry requirements. Staying current ensures your certification reflects up-to-date skills and applicable frameworks.
How much does the CGRC exam cost?
The CGRC exam costs USD $599.00, payable when registering through the ISC2 or Pearson VUE portals. This fee includes full access to the official testing process at authorized Pearson VUE centers. Many organizations support professional development and may cover this cost, making it an excellent investment in your cybersecurity career growth.
How long is the ISC2 CGRC exam?
You’ll have 180 minutes (3 hours) to complete the CGRC exam. This time allocation allows for thoughtful consideration of each question and case scenario. Using your time effectively is key—be sure to review each domain thoroughly and pace yourself evenly across sections to balance your focus and accuracy.
How many questions are on the exam?
The CGRC certification exam consists of 125 questions in multiple formats, including traditional multiple-choice and other advanced item types. Each question is designed to test your capability to apply GRC frameworks in practical scenarios. It’s recommended to practice using realistic exam simulations to familiarize yourself with these question types.
What is the passing score for the ISC2 CGRC exam?
To pass the CGRC exam, you need a scaled score of 700 out of 1000 points. ISC2 uses a balanced scoring model that evaluates your overall understanding rather than requiring you to pass each domain individually. With consistent study and comprehension of all seven domains, achieving this score is absolutely attainable.
Which languages is the exam offered in?
At present, the CGRC exam is available in English. ISC2 periodically reviews language availability based on global demand, so additional translation options may emerge in the future. Candidates whose first language isn’t English may find it useful to review official ISC2 resources for tips on exam preparation.
What types of questions will I encounter?
The CGRC exam primarily comprises multiple-choice and multi-select questions that assess both technical knowledge and strategic decision-making. Some questions may present scenario-based or compliance evaluation formats to reflect realistic risk management challenges. Practicing critical thinking across security documentation, control analysis, and compliance activities will prepare you well.
How is the CGRC exam structured?
The CGRC exam is structured around seven domains, each focusing on key GRC responsibilities:
- Security and Privacy Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance Program (16%)
- Scope of the System (10%)
- Selection and Approval of Framework, Security, and Privacy Controls (14%)
- Implementation of Security and Privacy Controls (17%)
- Assessment/Audit of Security and Privacy Controls (16%)
- System Compliance (14%)
- Compliance Maintenance (13%)
How much work experience do I need before taking the CGRC exam?
Candidates must have a minimum of two years of cumulative work experience across one or more of the seven CGRC domains. However, even if you do not yet meet the experience requirement, you can still take the exam. Passing it designates you as an Associate of ISC2, allowing you three years to gain the necessary experience to earn full certification.
Is the CGRC certification accredited?
Yes. The ISC2 CGRC certification proudly meets ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) ISO/IEC Standard 17024 requirements. This accreditation ensures the credential is globally recognized and trusted by employers, validating your professional competence in governance, risk, and compliance practices.
How difficult is the CGRC exam?
The CGRC exam is designed to assess applied understanding rather than rote memorization. Most candidates describe it as comprehensive, emphasizing practical knowledge of frameworks such as NIST RMF, ISO/IEC 27001, COBIT, and FedRAMP. With consistent study, practice questions, and the right preparation approach, you can feel fully confident on exam day.
To boost your readiness, consider exploring realistic online CGRC practice tests that replicate the exam experience with expert-reviewed explanations, available at this helpful CGRC exam practice resource.
What does the CGRC exam validate?
Achieving the CGRC demonstrates your ability to manage risk and compliance in the modern enterprise. Certified professionals show competence in:
- Implementing frameworks like NIST RMF and ISO/IEC 27001
- Developing governance programs and compliance strategies
- Assessing and maintaining security and privacy controls
- Ensuring continuous system authorization and regulatory alignment
This certification highlights both your technical and leadership skills in cybersecurity governance.
Are there prerequisites before attempting the CGRC exam?
There are no strict prerequisites to register for the exam, but ISC2 recommends foundational understanding of information systems and cybersecurity principles. Familiarity with risk management and policy development will be beneficial. Even if you’re early in your career, starting as an Associate of ISC2 allows you to earn credibility while building experience.
How can I prepare effectively for the ISC2 CGRC exam?
ISC2 offers a range of flexible preparation options tailored to your learning style, including:
- Self-Paced Online Training for independent study
- Instructor-Led Live Courses for guided learning
- Classroom-Based Learning for team environments
- Official CGRC Study Resources and Flashcards
You can supplement these materials with community discussions, practice labs, and exam simulations to reinforce your comprehension.
What frameworks are covered in the CGRC exam?
Expect to work with multiple national and international frameworks throughout the exam, including:
- NIST Risk Management Framework (RMF)
- ISO/IEC 27001 and 27002
- COBIT for governance integration
- FedRAMP and FISMA for U.S. agency compliance
- GDPR and HIPAA for data protection and privacy
Understanding these frameworks enables you to manage compliance activities across diverse regulatory landscapes.
What is the validity period of the ISC2 CGRC certification?
Your CGRC certification is valid for three years. To maintain it, you'll need to earn Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits through professional development activities and submit your annual maintenance fees to ISC2. Maintaining your certification ensures your skills stay aligned with current industry standards and evolving regulations.
What resources are most valuable when studying for CGRC?
Top preparation resources include ISC2’s official study guides, exam outlines, flashcards, and online courses. Additionally, engaging with peer communities and reviewing reference frameworks like ISO/IEC 27001, NIST documents, and COBIT provides a deeper foundation. Many professionals also benefit from simulated practice exams to assess readiness before the actual test.
Where can you take the ISC2 CGRC exam?
You can schedule your CGRC exam at an authorized Pearson VUE testing center. Make sure to confirm a convenient location ahead of time through the ISC2 dashboard. Pearson VUE centers provide a secure and professional testing environment ensuring the exam is administered fairly to all candidates.
What steps should I follow to register for the CGRC exam?
To register:
- Visit your ISC2 Member Dashboard
- Select the Certified in Governance, Risk and Compliance (CGRC) exam
- Choose your testing method and location with Pearson VUE
- Select your preferred exam date and submit payment
- Review your confirmation details and study plan
You’re now on your way to joining an elite community of cybersecurity governance professionals.
What’s next after earning your CGRC certification?
After earning your CGRC, you’ll be equipped to advance into specialized leadership and advisory roles. Many professionals use CGRC as a springboard to higher-level credentials such as CISSP, CCSP, or CSSLP, expanding into enterprise-scale security management. Your certification serves as a testament to your strategic capability and commitment to organizational compliance.
Where can I find the official ISC2 CGRC certification details?
You can explore full information, exam policies, and preparation resources directly from the official ISC2 Certified in Governance, Risk and Compliance (CGRC) certification page. This is the best place to stay up to date on exam outlines, experience requirements, and official study tools.
The ISC2 Certified in Governance, Risk and Compliance (CGRC) certification is a powerful credential for those who want to lead with integrity, manage enterprise risk, and navigate complex compliance landscapes confidently. By mastering the domains and frameworks, you’ll gain not only certification but also industry respect, professional credibility, and lasting career growth.
