Question 1

What are the 6 CCSP domains?

Accepted Answer

The 6 CCSP domains are: Cloud Concepts, Architecture and Design (17%), Cloud Data Security (20%), Cloud Platform and Infrastructure Security (17%), Cloud Application Security (17%), Cloud Security Operations (16%), and Legal, Risk and Compliance (13%).

Question 2

How hard is the CCSP exam?

Accepted Answer

The CCSP is a difficult certification aimed at experienced cloud and security professionals. It uses adaptive testing and requires deep understanding of cloud-specific concepts across all six domains. Most candidates study for 3–6 months and benefit from hands-on cloud experience alongside study.

Question 3

How long does it take to study for CCSP?

Accepted Answer

Most candidates study for 3 to 6 months. Those with existing cloud architecture or security operations experience may need less. The most common gaps are in legal and compliance topics and cloud-specific cryptography.

Question 4

How many questions are on the CCSP exam?

Accepted Answer

The CCSP uses Computer Adaptive Testing and contains between 125 and 175 questions. The exam ends when the system has sufficient confidence in your result, within a 4-hour window.

Question 5

What is the CCSP pass rate?

Accepted Answer

ISC² does not publish official pass rate figures. Industry estimates suggest it is a challenging exam, particularly for candidates without hands-on cloud experience. Targeted preparation across all six domains is essential.

Question 6

How do you pass the CCSP exam?

Accepted Answer

Think like a cloud security architect and risk manager, not a cloud engineer. The exam tests your ability to evaluate trade-offs and make risk-based decisions in cloud environments. Study all 6 domains, understand shared responsibility models, and focus on cloud-specific versions of security concepts you may already know from on-premises contexts.