One month after launching three new initiatives, (ISC)² Candidates , (ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity ^SM and (ISC)² One Million Certified in Cybersecurity , aimed at addressing the cybersecurity workforce gap, we are thrilled to share our initial successes.

We have seen a rapid adoption within the past 30 days of these programs among cybersecurity candidates looking to enter the field. The quick embrace highlights the importance of developing new and unique pathways to make cybersecurity careers more accessible worldwide. Through these initiatives, we are laying a strong foundation to encourage more people to explore the opportunities of a cybersecurity career.

In fact, in the past month, we have seen 55,000 individuals sign up to become an (ISC)² Candidate – a program for individuals looking to pursue or consider a cybersecurity career or work towards an (ISC)² certification. Participants gain access to exclusive resources and benefits that help strengthen their connection with the cybersecurity community.

Additionally, 2,700 cybersecurity career pursuers have already passed their (ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity certification. A critical step to demonstrate foundational skills and knowledge to secure an entry- and junior-level cybersecurity job. The certification gives employers more confidence in employees’ abilities to enter the field.

Within the past 30 days, we have also seen more than 53,000 people register for a free Certified in Cybersecurity course and exam. The effort, part of the One Million Certified in Cybersecurity initiative , aims at providing free, entry-level cybersecurity certification exams and self-paced educational program courses to one million new professionals starting a career in cybersecurity.

Accessing Free Cybersecurity Education and Certification Exams

If you are looking to join the cybersecurity workforce – it’s not too late! Enrolling in these programs will provide the skills needed to start your cybersecurity career path.

To participate in the FREE (ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity Online Self-Paced Training and exams, individuals must register as an (ISC)² Candidate.

To enroll, follow these simple steps:

1. Sign up as an (ISC)² Candidate for free (for a limited time) at isc2.org/candidate. You will be prompted to create an account with (ISC)² and answer several questions about your cybersecurity career goals.
2. After you complete your (ISC)² Candidate registration, you will be redirected to your (ISC)² Candidate benefits page. From there, you will find links to enroll in the Online Self-Paced Training and instructions for redeeming your free exam when you’re ready to take the test.

We are thrilled with these early successes as it shows our efforts have made a positive impact for individuals looking to enter into the cybersecurity industry – a step in the right direction to close the cybersecurity workforce gap.

Questions? Talk to us at candidate@isc2.org – we hope you’ll join us!