Pioneering Excellence

“Sports gone wrong” stories like exertional rhabdomyolysis (rhabdo) are all too common, leading the NCAA to require credible certification at every level. Seeing this need long ago, the NSCA developed the CSCS in 1993 — the first strength and conditioning coach certification to earn NCCA accreditation. Earning this credential confirms your ability to align safety and performance.

Trusted at the Top

Once you’re a CSCS, your skills are highly sought after by elite sports, commercial, and government organizations. Many collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) require CSCS certification, often alongside advanced RSCC designation. The NSCA also maintains strong partnerships with professional and collegiate leagues and organizations, including the NBSCA, PBSCCS, PFPCA, PSPA, SCAPH, and USA Bobsled Skeleton.

Highest Earning Power

Your CSCS opens the door to higher paychecks across professional sports and the private or tactical sectors. Similar credentials lack the same legacy, prestige, and credibility as the CSCS and NSCA — one of the only nonprofits that publishes original, peer-reviewed research. Apply problem-solving skills and evidence-based principles to train a broad range of populations, expanding your value and earning potential.

CSCS Certification Requirements

You must meet the following requirements to sit for the CSCS exam:

• Hold at least a Bachelor’s degree
• Have a current CPR/AED certification

IMPORTANT: Effective January 1, 2030, U.S. candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree from a CASCE-accredited program to be eligible for the CSCS exam. This does not affect candidates with a Bachelor’s degree from outside the U.S. until January 2036. Current degree requirements are effective through December 31, 2029.

See Eligibility Details

CSCS Exam Registration Fees

Exam preparation materials not included with registration.

NSCA Membership

Save $135 on your CSCS exam and join NSCA’s elite network of coaching professionals. Unlock exclusive discounts from exam prep to events, free continuing education, and unmatched support as an NSCA Member.

Become a Member

Not sure which NSCA certification is right for you?

Compare types of training, groups you can support, eligibility requirements, and more.

Maintain Your NSCA Certification

Once you hold the CSCS, staying certified means staying current through lifelong learning. Earn continuing education units (CEUs) every three years to build your skills and advance your career.

Stay Certifed

Earn Advanced RSCC Designation

After two years of full-time experience, you can begin distinguishing yourself further with advanced Registered Strength and Conditioning Coach® designations.

Learn More

Disclaimer: The CSCS exam is based upon the critical knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) needed to safely and effectively work as a strength and conditioning specialist. These KSAs are developed following a job analysis and are used to create the CSCS Detailed Content Outline (DCO). To support individuals seeking certification as a strength and conditioning specialist, the NSCA has developed several optional preparatory materials. The NSCA does not require, provide, or endorse any specific study guides, preparation materials, or review courses. Candidates who choose to use and/or purchase NSCA preparatory materials are not guaranteed a passing score on certification exams offered by the NSCA.