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Textbook
Introduction
1. Structure and function of body systems
2. Biomechanics of resistance exercise
3. Bioenergetics of exercise and training
4. Endocrine responses to resistance exercise
5. Adaptations to anaerobic training
6. Adaptations to aerobic endurance training
7. Age and sex differences in resistance exercise
8. Psychology of athletic preparation and performance
9. Sports nutrition
10. Nutrition strategies for maximizing performance
11. Performance-enhancing substances and methods
12. Principles of test selection and administration
13. Administration, scoring, and interpretation of selected tests
14. Warm-up and flexibility training
15. Exercise technique for free weight and machine training
16. Exercise technique for alternative modes and nontraditional implement training
17. Program design for resistance training
18. Program design and technique for plyometric training
19. Program design and technique for speed and agility training
20. Program design and technique for aerobic endurance training
21. Periodization
22. Rehabilitation and reconditioning
23. Facility design, layout, and organization
24. Facility policies, procedures, and legal issues
Wrapping up
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Wrapping up
Achievable CSCS

Wrapping up

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You’re almost there!

You’ve reached the end of the CSCS Exam Prep Course. At this point, you should have a clear plan for registering, understanding the exam requirements, and preparing for test day.

Testing registration

To register for the CSCS exam, visit the official NSCA website.

You’ll need to:

  • Create an NSCA account
  • Upload your proof of bachelor’s degree (or enrollment as a senior)
  • Provide proof of current CPR/AED certification
  • Pay the exam fee

Exam costs:

  • NSCA Members: $340
  • Non-Members: $475

Member cost:

  • Student membership - $70 / year
  • Professional Membership - $130 / year

Passing score: Each section (Scientific Foundations and Practical/Applied) is scored on a scale from 1 to 99. A passing score is 70 or higher on each section. You must pass both sections to earn certification.

Additional information

  • Retake policy: If you don’t pass one or both sections, you may retake the failed portion(s) after a mandatory 90-day waiting period. Retake fees apply.
  • Calculator: An on-screen calculator is provided during the exam. You may not bring your own.
  • Accommodations: Special testing accommodations are available for individuals with documented disabilities. Requests must be submitted in advance with supporting documentation.
  • Testing options: You can take the exam at an approved Pearson VUE testing center or online via a remote proctoring service.

Tips for test day

  • Arrive early (or log in early if testing online) so you have time for check-in and setup.
  • Make sure you have a valid government-issued photo ID.
  • Read each question carefully, and use the process of elimination when you’re unsure.
  • Manage your time - don’t spend too long on any single question.
  • Stay calm, breathe, and focus on one question at a time.

Additional resources

  • NSCA CSCS Exam info page

Thank you

Thank you for using this course as part of your CSCS preparation. Use the registration details above to confirm your eligibility requirements, then plan your final review based on the exam format and testing logistics.

Best of luck on your exam.

Testing registration

  • Register via NSCA website
  • Requirements:
    • NSCA account creation
    • Proof of bachelor’s degree or senior status
    • Current CPR/AED certification
    • Exam fee payment
  • Exam fees:
    • NSCA Members: $340
    • Non-Members: $475
    • Student membership: $70/year
    • Professional membership: $130/year
  • Passing score: 70+ on both Scientific Foundations and Practical/Applied sections (scale 1-99)

Additional information

  • Retake policy: 90-day wait for retakes, retake fees apply
  • On-screen calculator provided (no personal calculators allowed)
  • Special accommodations available with advance documentation
  • Testing options: Pearson VUE center or remote proctoring

Tips for test day

  • Arrive or log in early for check-in
  • Bring valid government-issued photo ID
  • Read questions carefully; use process of elimination
  • Manage time; avoid lingering on one question
  • Stay calm and focused

Additional resources

  • NSCA CSCS Exam info page for further details and updates
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Wrapping up

You’re almost there!

You’ve reached the end of the CSCS Exam Prep Course. At this point, you should have a clear plan for registering, understanding the exam requirements, and preparing for test day.

Testing registration

To register for the CSCS exam, visit the official NSCA website.

You’ll need to:

  • Create an NSCA account
  • Upload your proof of bachelor’s degree (or enrollment as a senior)
  • Provide proof of current CPR/AED certification
  • Pay the exam fee

Exam costs:

  • NSCA Members: $340
  • Non-Members: $475

Member cost:

  • Student membership - $70 / year
  • Professional Membership - $130 / year

Passing score: Each section (Scientific Foundations and Practical/Applied) is scored on a scale from 1 to 99. A passing score is 70 or higher on each section. You must pass both sections to earn certification.

Additional information

  • Retake policy: If you don’t pass one or both sections, you may retake the failed portion(s) after a mandatory 90-day waiting period. Retake fees apply.
  • Calculator: An on-screen calculator is provided during the exam. You may not bring your own.
  • Accommodations: Special testing accommodations are available for individuals with documented disabilities. Requests must be submitted in advance with supporting documentation.
  • Testing options: You can take the exam at an approved Pearson VUE testing center or online via a remote proctoring service.

Tips for test day

  • Arrive early (or log in early if testing online) so you have time for check-in and setup.
  • Make sure you have a valid government-issued photo ID.
  • Read each question carefully, and use the process of elimination when you’re unsure.
  • Manage your time - don’t spend too long on any single question.
  • Stay calm, breathe, and focus on one question at a time.

Additional resources

  • NSCA CSCS Exam info page

Thank you

Thank you for using this course as part of your CSCS preparation. Use the registration details above to confirm your eligibility requirements, then plan your final review based on the exam format and testing logistics.

Best of luck on your exam.

Key points

Testing registration

  • Register via NSCA website
  • Requirements:
    • NSCA account creation
    • Proof of bachelor’s degree or senior status
    • Current CPR/AED certification
    • Exam fee payment
  • Exam fees:
    • NSCA Members: $340
    • Non-Members: $475
    • Student membership: $70/year
    • Professional membership: $130/year
  • Passing score: 70+ on both Scientific Foundations and Practical/Applied sections (scale 1-99)

Additional information

  • Retake policy: 90-day wait for retakes, retake fees apply
  • On-screen calculator provided (no personal calculators allowed)
  • Special accommodations available with advance documentation
  • Testing options: Pearson VUE center or remote proctoring

Tips for test day

  • Arrive or log in early for check-in
  • Bring valid government-issued photo ID
  • Read questions carefully; use process of elimination
  • Manage time; avoid lingering on one question
  • Stay calm and focused

Additional resources

  • NSCA CSCS Exam info page for further details and updates