The table below summarises key differences between the two exams:
| CCT exam (pre 2024) | New CCT exam (2024) |
|---|---|
| Full exam completed in two sittings and over two different days | Full exam completed in two sittings which can be booked for the same day |
| Practical exam delivered in hotels at limited locations | Written and practical exams delivered at selected Pearson VUE test centres globally |
| The written exam is a multiple-choice test. Total duration is 3 hours | The written exam includes a multiple-choice test (60 minutes) and a written scenario (120 minutes). The total duration is 3 hours The scenario tests report-writing skills and candidates are given an additional 15 minutes of reading time before the scenario component starts |
| The practical exam includes a scenario (150 minutes) and a practical (210 minutes hours) test that tests candidates’ hands-on penetration testing. Total duration is 6 hours Candidates are given an additional 15 minutes reading time in each component Candidates are allowed to use their own laptop and tools in the practical exam | The practical exam (180 minute) tests candidates’ hands-on penetration testing. The total duration is 3 hours Candidates are given an additional 20 minutes of reading time before the practical exam starts The practical exam includes a Virtual Kali box with pre-installed tools |
| Written exam – closed book Practical exam – open book | Written exam remains closed book Practical exam – candidates are able to pre-upload files ahead of their practical exam using CRESTDrive. These files will be accessible on the day of the exam. Find out more about CRESTDrive here. Candidates should get familiar with the Virtual Kali box in advance and revise key commands for use in the exam |
| Candidates must use a SMB share at the beginning to access papers | Exam questions are integrated to the exam screen |
| Assessor required to validate exam environment | Non-technical invigilator present |
| Smaller skillset tested | Wider skillset tested |
The syllabus has been updated and restructured adding greater depth to the exam.
The exam duration has been extensively assessed to ensure that the time allocated is appropriate to answer all questions.
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