Overview of the CGRC Certification

The ISC2 Certified in Governance, Risk and Compliance (CGRC) credential replaced the Certified Authorization Professional (CAP) title on 15 February 2023 to better reflect the knowledge and skills demanded of modern GRC practitioners. CGRC holders are expected to integrate governance, risk management and regulatory compliance across multiple frameworks—capabilities now recognized by employers worldwide, including the U.S. Department of Defense, which lists the certification under DoDM 8140.03 workforce requirements. To earn the credential you must pass the exam and document at least two years of paid, cumulative work experience in one or more of the seven CGRC domains; candidates lacking the experience can become an Associate of ISC2 while they accrue it.

Exam Format and Content

The computer-based CGRC exam lasts three hours and presents 125 multiple-choice or advanced-item questions. A scaled score of 700 out of 1,000 is required to pass. Content is distributed across seven domains—such as Security and Privacy Governance, Risk Management and Compliance Program (16 %), Implementation of Security and Privacy Controls (17 %) and Compliance Maintenance (13 %)—reflecting the 2024 job-task-analysis update. In the Americas the registration fee is US $599, and testing is delivered exclusively through Pearson VUE centers. Understanding both the weighting and the time limit lets you allocate study hours and develop pacing strategies that mirror the real exam.

The Power of Practice Exams

Timed, high-quality practice exams are one of the quickest ways to convert reading into exam-day readiness. They reveal whether your conceptual understanding holds up under a three-hour clock, spotlight weak domains early, and acclimate you to ISC2’s scenario-driven questioning style. ISC2 recommends using practice assessments to verify comprehension and identify gaps—not to memorize answers—because the real CGRC exam rewards depth of understanding over rote recall. Many candidates track scores by domain until they consistently exceed the 700-point benchmark, using post-test reviews to drill into missed concepts and refine time management.

Putting It All Together: A Strategic Study Plan

Map the exam outline to a calendar that back-loads heavier-weighted domains and includes weekly practice-test checkpoints. Blend modalities: official ISC2 Online Self-Paced or Instructor-Led training, white-papers and control catalogs keep the material fresh and contextual. Adaptive platforms can personalize that journey by flagging knowledge gaps and shortening review cycles, letting you spend more time where it matters. In the final weeks, rotate full-length practice exams with focused drills, refine your test-taking routine (breaks, hydration, mindfulness) and book the real exam when your timed practice scores stabilize above target. This metrics-driven approach not only boosts the odds of a first-time pass but also builds the confidence to apply GRC principles on the job.