Standalone OffSec Certification Exam FAQ

  • Updated
Follow

This FAQ provides essential information about the OffSec Standalone Certification Exam. Use this guide to ensure you understand the key details before registering.

What is the Standalone OffSec Certification Exam?

The Standalone OffSec Certification Exam is a product designed for individuals seeking the OSCP certification without needing access to the PEN-200 course. It includes two OSCP exam attempts, valid for 120 days from the date of purchase. This option is ideal for individuals who are confident in their skills and feel prepared to take the exam without needing additional training or course materials.

What’s included in the Standalone OffSec Certification Exam?

This includes two OSCP exam attempts at the OSCP certification exam. It does not provide access to any course materials and lab

How long is the Standalone OffSec Certification Exam valid?

The exam attempts are valid for 120 days from the purchase date. Both attempts must be completed within this period. It is highly recommended to plan your exam schedule carefully to allow time for the second attempt, if needed, while accounting for the required cooling-off periods between retakes (4, 8, or 12 weeks).

How can I manage my Standalone OffSec Certification Exam?

To manage your exam, kindly go through these steps:

  1. Log in to your OffSec Learning Library account.
  2. Go to Courses from the Explore menu, then select PEN-200.
  3. On the Exam tab, click the Manage Exam button to access the scheduling page.
  4. Use the dropdowns to pick your preferred date and start time (in 24-hour format).
  5. Once satisfied with your selections, click Schedule to confirm your exam.

For additional information and instructions, please visit the Managing OffSec Certification Exams page.

What is the cooling-off period if I fail the exam?

If you fail the OSCP exam as part of the Standalone OffSec Certification Exam, there are mandatory waiting periods before you can retake it:

  • After your first attempt, you must wait 4 weeks.
  • After your second attempt, the waiting period is 8 weeks.
  • For the third attempt and beyond, you must wait 12 weeks between exams.

Make sure to account for these cooling-off periods when planning your exam schedule.

How does the Standalone OffSec Certification Exam differ from Course & Certification bundle or Learn Subscription?

The Standalone OffSec Certification Exam offers flexibility for those confident in their abilities, allowing you to take the exam and earn your OSCP and OSCP+ designation without course materials or labs. In contrast, the Course & Certification bundle and Learn Subscription provide comprehensive training, including course content and labs. These options offer guided support to help you fully prepare for the exam.

Do I need to have prior experience or training for me to be able to purchase the Standalone OffSec Certification Exam?

It is recommended you have at least some experience in the field of penetration testing and are familiar with the body of knowledge published here. If you believe you have the necessary knowledge and skills to pass the exam, you can purchase just the Standalone Certification Exam.

If you would like to benefit from training before attempting the certification, the PEN-200 course which corresponds to the OSCP and OSCP+ designation is available in the following packages:

For individuals:

For organizations:

Is the exam content different for the Standalone Certification Exam compared to the exams included in the Course & Cert Exam bundle, Learn One or Learn Unlimited subscriptions?

The exam content is identical. The difference lies in whether you choose to take the training or go directly to the exam.

How can I purchase the Standalone Certification Exam?

If you are new to OffSec, you can register and purchase here. Simply choose the Standalone OffSec Certification from the product options and complete your registration.

If you already have an account in the OffSec Learning Library, the Standalone OffSec Certification is available via your Buy More page.

Can I purchase the training later if I choose the Standalone Certification Exam and find I need additional preparation?

Yes, if you decide that additional preparation would be beneficial, you can always purchase a Course & Certification Bundle, or Learn Subscription through your Buy More page.

I was previously enrolled in the PEN-200 course but haven’t earned the certification yet. Can I purchase the Standalone Certification Exam to take the exam?

Yes, the Standalone Certification Exam is available to any individual who has not yet achieved the certification seeking to take the exam, regardless of their previous course enrollment status.

I failed both exam attempts included in my Standalone Certification Exam. How can I attempt the exam again?

To attempt the exam again, you may purchase a regular exam retake at $249 through your Buy More page. You will have 120 days from the purchase date to schedule and attempt your exam.

I purchased the Standalone Certification Exam but would like training after all, is there an upgrade path?

At the moment, there’s no upgrade path available. If you would like to purchase the corresponding PEN-200 training, you may purchase a Course and Certification Exam Bundle or Learn One subscription at any time.

Note: Standalone Certification Exam refunds are not available once an exam attempt has been scheduled or attempted, or if more than 3 months have passed from the purchase date. For more information, see the refund policy detailed here.

I passed the exam on my first attempt. Can I get a refund for the second exam attempt?

If you pass the certification exam on your first try, the second exam attempt is automatically forfeited and cannot be refunded or used for another certification type.

Will the Standalone Certification Exam be available for other OffSec certifications, not just OSCP?

As of now, the Standalone Certification Exam is only offered for the OSCP certification. Any future updates or inclusions of the exams for additional certifications will be announced, as soon as possible.

We encourage you to regularly check our website for the latest information and updates on certification options and changes.

Relevant Resources

 

Related articles

Powered by Zendesk