Quick CySA+ Exam Overview
Essential facts about the CompTIA CySA+ CS0-003 certification
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The exam features a mix of multiple-choice questions (both single and multiple response), drag-and-drop activities that test your understanding of logical processes, and performance-based simulations that require practical application of skills in realistic security scenarios.
The CySA+ exam can contain up to 85 questions. The exact number may vary, but you'll need to manage your time across all the questions within the total exam time.
You'll have 165 minutes (2 hours 45 minutes) to complete the exam, which includes reviewing instructions, completing all questions, and submitting your answers. Time management is key, especially with performance-based tasks that may take longer.
The passing score is 750 out of 900. This score is scaled, meaning the difficulty of each version of the exam is taken into account to ensure fairness across testing sessions.
The exam voucher costs $404 USD. Prices can vary depending on your country and whether you're purchasing directly or through a training provider. Discounts may be available for students, veterans, and bundle purchases.
- Security Operations – 33%: Includes threat intelligence, SIEM tools, and secure network architecture.
- Vulnerability Management – 30%: Covers vulnerability scanning, analysis, and remediation.
- Incident Response Management – 20%: Focuses on handling and reporting security incidents and breaches.
- Reporting and Communication – 17%: Involves creating reports, communicating with stakeholders, and compliance-related documentation.
- Proactively identifying and responding to security incidents
- Using tools like SIEMs, vulnerability scanners, and packet analyzers
- Performing root cause analysis and threat hunting
- Communicating security issues clearly through reports and meetings
🧪 Is hands-on experience important?
Yes, the CySA+ exam includes performance-based questions that test your ability to apply knowledge in simulated environments. Real-world experience in tools and processes is a big advantage.
🌐 Can I take the exam online?
Yes, CompTIA offers the CySA+ exam both in-person at authorized test centers and online through Pearson VUE’s OnVUE platform. You'll need a quiet environment, a webcam, and a stable internet connection for remote testing.
📆 How long is the CySA+ certification valid?
The certification is valid for three years from the date of passing the exam. You can renew it through continuing education (CE) activities or by earning higher-level certifications.