ISC2 is an international non-profit membership organization that advocates establishing a secure and protected cyberspace. Best known for the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP®) certification, ISC2 offers a comprehensive range of qualifications contributing to a well-rounded and pragmatic security approach. Regardless of where you stand in your cybersecurity career, ISC2 certifications assist in expanding your knowledge and accomplishing your objectives. The ISC2 Certified in Governance, Risk, and Compliance (CGRC) certification showcases your expertise in principles and practices aimed at ensuring secure and compliant business operations. Obtaining the CGRC certification validates your ability to formalize processes for risk assessment and establish security documentation within an organization.
The Value of CGRC Certification
The CGRC is a cybersecurity certification that is impartial to specific vendors, created to verify that CGRC professionals have the skills to seamlessly incorporate governance, risk management, and regulatory compliance into an organization. These professionals adeptly handle cyber risks and meet regulatory requirements by aligning IT objectives with the organization’s overall goals. Additionally, they utilize frameworks to merge security and privacy with an organization’s aims, empowering stakeholders to make well-informed decisions regarding the risks associated with data security and privacy.
Core Features of CGRC Certification
- Vendor-Neutral Certification: The CGRC certification guarantees that professionals possess advanced technical security expertise and relevant knowledge across diverse technologies and methodologies, enabling them to authorize and uphold information systems.
- Approval and Recognition: The CGRC certification holds accreditation from ANAB/ANSI and IAS according to the ISO/IEC Standard 17024.
- Approved by the DoD: Professionals holding the CGRC certification are categorized into two groups per the DoD 8570.01 directive: IAM Level I and IAM Level II. This certification uniquely corresponds to every step of the Risk Management Framework (RMF) among those mandated by DoD 8571.
- Continuous Professional Development: Professionals with CGRC certification must engage in ongoing professional education to remain up-to-date on emerging threats, technologies, regulations, standards, and practices.
Roadmap to CGRC Certification
Professionals are advised to tailor their path to CGRC certification based on their learning preferences and experiences.
Getting Started as an ISC2 Candidate
Becoming an ISC2 candidate marks a highly advantageous beginning in the quest for CGRC certification. Candidates can avail themselves of various perks akin to those certified members enjoy, such as a 20% training discount and 30-50% off on textbooks to support their advancement.
Fulfilling the Experience Criteria
To be eligible for the CGRC certification, individuals must complete the exam and possess at least two years of collective, compensated work experience in any of the seven domains covered in the ISC2 CGRC Common Body of Knowledge (CBK®).
The CGRC domains are:
- Domain 1: Information Security Risk Management Program
- Domain 2: Scope of the Information System
- Domain 3: Selection and Approval of Security and Privacy Controls
- Domain 4: Implementation of Security and Privacy Controls
- Domain 5: Assessment/Audit of Security and Privacy Controls
- Domain 6: Authorization/Approval of Information System
- Domain 7: Continuous Monitoring
Preparing for the CGRC Exam
ISC2, the entity responsible for developing and maintaining the CGRC CBK, offers diverse self-study materials to assist participants in confidently preparing for the exam. While some individuals choose independent study as their preferred method for exam preparation, others decide to attend an Official training to review and strengthen their knowledge before undertaking the exam.
Successfully Completing the Exam
The CGRC examination comprises 125 questions and must be finished within three hours. Candidates can schedule their exams by establishing an account with Pearson VUE, a prominent provider of global computer-based testing for certification and licensure exams.
Achieving Endorsement Status
After successfully passing the exam, participants are given a nine-month window from the exam date to fulfill the ISC2 endorsement process. This stage is vital in safeguarding the credibility and significance of the CGRC certification.
Gaining CPE Credits
Upon becoming certified, individuals join ISC2 as members and must undergo recertification every three years. Recertification involves acquiring Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits and making an Annual Maintenance Fee (AMF) payment to sustain ongoing professional development.
How to Pass the CGRC Certification Exam?
Getting ready for the CGRC exam (Certified Governance, Risk, and Compliance) necessitates a systematic method, a blend of study materials, and hands-on experience. The following steps are designed to assist you in preparing effectively:
1. Become Familiar with CGRC Domains
Get acquainted with the exam goals and subjects outlined by ISC2. The official ISC2 certification website is an invaluable source for obtaining this information.
2. Gather Study Materials
Utilize authorized ISC2 study materials, which typically encompass documentation, training sessions, and practice exams. ISC2’s proprietary resources are specifically crafted to correspond with the content covered in the exam.
3. Create a Study Plan
Develop a study timetable that suits your preferred learning approach and schedule. Maintain consistency by dedicating specific time slots for your preparation.
4. CGRC Practice Test
Utilize the CGRC practice test to assess your understanding and acquaint yourself with the exam structure. These tests can assist in pinpointing areas that require additional attention.
5. Online Courses and Training
Explore participating in online courses or training programs specifically created for CGRC exam readiness. Numerous platforms and training providers provide systems customized for ISC2 certifications.
6. Study Groups
Engage in study groups or online forums to discuss, pose inquiries, and gain insights from individuals preparing for the identical exam.
7. Stay Informed
Regularly update your knowledge of regulatory changes, emerging risks, and governance best practices through reading, webinars, and industry conferences.
8. Hone Your Exam Skills
Carefully examine each question, ensuring a clear understanding of its requirements. Rule out incorrect choices before finalizing your response.
9. Take Breaks
Think about incorporating short breaks to rejuvenate your mind and alleviate fatigue.
10. Exam Day Preparation
Ensure your internet connection is stable and you are in a quiet, undisturbed space for the online exam. Ensure you have all essential materials, including identification, prepared.
Advantages of CGRC Certification
The CGRC certification provides a myriad of advantages for cybersecurity professionals, spanning from progress in one’s career to an enhanced skill set. This segment explores the primary benefits of acquiring the CGRC certification and the distinctive resources accessible to certified individuals.
Opportunities for Career Advancement
The CGRC certification enhances a professional’s visibility and credibility, unlocking avenues to fresh career possibilities and distinguishing them in the fiercely competitive cybersecurity arena.
Versatile Skills
The CGRC certification’s impartiality towards vendors allows professionals to utilize their skills across diverse technologies and methodologies, rendering them invaluable assets to organizations spanning different industries.
Credibility
Securing the CGRC certification showcases professionals’ robust proficiency in addressing and responding to cyber threats, building trust, and instilling confidence in their capabilities.
Solid Foundation for Protection
Professionals with CGRC certification are more equipped to combat cyberattacks and play a role in fostering a secure cyber environment. This readiness is attributed to the extensive knowledge gained through the CGRC certification process, standards, and practices.
Being Part of a Resilient Peer Network
Joining ISC2 membership provides access to exclusive resources, educational tools, and opportunities for peer-to-peer networking. This fosters ongoing professional development and collaboration.
Higher Salary
Professionals holding the CGRC certification can anticipate elevated salaries, as indicated by the annual survey conducted by Certification Magazine, which reports an average salary of $118,980 in the United States and $114,150 globally.
Strengthened Knowledge Base
The CGRC certification equips professionals with an enhanced and more comprehensive grasp of the cybersecurity Common Body of Knowledge (CBK®), enabling them to excel in their responsibilities and stay at the forefront of the continually evolving field.
Bolstered Expertise
The CGRC certification provides professionals with the expertise and skills required to efficiently carry out their organizational responsibilities and address the varied challenges within the field of cybersecurity.
Conclusion
The ISC2 CGRC certification is a thorough and invaluable accreditation for IT, information security, and cybersecurity professionals aspiring to excel in governance, risk, and compliance. Achieving this certification allows professionals to showcase their proficiency in risk management and the authorization of information systems, ensuring they remain at the forefront of the continually evolving cybersecurity domain.
The CGRC certification opens doors for career progression, enhances skill growth, and offers increased compensation, rendering it a superb option for professionals aiming to elevate their careers in the GRC field.
