Is this a self study course? Must I physically attend classes?

The CSCP is a self-directed study program. Essential information and materials, such as competency statements, content outline, recommended curriculum, and passing score may be found within the CSCP Candidate Handbook, the certification website, and materials sent to registrants.

The CSCP credential recognizes the competence and expertise of compliance professionals in a number of specified content areas.  The CSCP examination is not entry-level and may only be taken by those candidates who have fulfilled established eligibility criteria. Once a candidate has determined that he or she has met the eligibility criteria, the candidate is encouraged to utilize the CSCP Competency Statements in conjunction with the CSCP Curriculum to plan, execute, and customize an exam preparation strategy.

The CSCP examination contemplates that candidates will be familiar with current laws, rules and regulations of both the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Self-Regulatory Organizations (SROs) that apply to registered investment advisers, registered broker-dealers and, to some extent, to registered investment companies. A candidate's formal education, professional training, and practical experience will be useful in preparing for the CSCP examination. Utilization of the CSCP Competency Statements and Curriculum can guide a candidate in mastering the content areas that will be tested. NSCP has not established any additional courses or programs that are intended to assist candidates in preparing for the CSCP examination.

How do I obtain study materials for the examination?

The CSCP Handbook is available online at www.cscp.org. Only candidates who have registered and scheduled their CSCP testing appointment through Pearson VUE will have full access to the CSCP Curriculum in its entirety. Unique logins and passwords granting access to the CSCP Curriculum will be sent via e-mail to eligible registrants. NSCP is proud to partner with Omnipress in the online delivery of the CSCP Curriculum.

Are there practice exams or sample questions?

At this juncture, our venture is too new and our item bank is simply not mature/robust enough to provide practice examinations. The new online CSCP Curriculum has a handful of stand-alone sample items.

Sample items are available to demonstrate the different cognitive levels represented on the CSCP exam.

Must I be a NSCP member to qualify?

NSCP membership has no bearing on the CSCP program.

How far in advance can I register for the exam?

When you register you will need to pay the $695 USD (US and Canada) or $725 USD (International) fee and schedule your testing appointment; appointments can be made up to a maximum of six (6) months in advance.

As the CSCP Curriculum directly correlates to the current CSCP exam form, it is strongly recommended that candidates sit for the exam within the same calendar year. New versions of the exam and curriculum are implemented every calendar year, typically within the 4th quarter. Candidates should be cognizant of this fact as they develop preparation strategies or if they plan to reschedule testing appointments.

Are there testing windows?

There are no "windows." Testing is available Monday through Saturday, barring any holidays and depending upon availability, through Pearson VUE.

Why does NSCP maintain that a “Compliance Professional” know both sides of the business (BD & IA compliance)?

The CSCP certification program is designed to meet the dynamic changes and the increased responsibility and authority now carried by compliance professionals in the financial services industry.  The certification provides a means for compliance professionals to demonstrate mastery of the two principal regulatory regimes that currently govern industry participants. The CSCP credential acknowledges the importance to all compliance professionals of understanding each of these regimes. The CSCP program certifies those who are leaders in the knowledge of standards and best practices for the compliance profession throughout the financial industry.

How does the CSCP Compare to Other Designations?

A visual comparison of the CSCP, IACCP, and CRCP programs. Please click on the title above.