The steps on this page will help you select the right certification that fits your career goals.

Become a certified personal trainer with the NSCA-Certified Personal Trainer® (NSCA-CPT®) certification. Candidates must be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or an equivalent. Learn more about the prerequisites to sit for the NSCA-CPT® exam.

Continue to expand your knowledge and earn CEUs by passing post-certification college coursework.

Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists® (CSCS®) are professionals who apply scientific knowledge to train athletes for the primary goal of improving athletic performance. Learn more about becoming a strength and conditioning coach with the NSCA certification! Visit NSCA.com for more information on strength and conditioning jobs, strength and conditioning internships, continuing education and CEUs.

Learn how to register for an NSCA exam, from eligibility & prep to scheduling & results. Reach your strength & conditioning career goals with NSCA certification.

The National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Advocates to Raise the Certification Standards with the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

Every three years, we conduct an audit of NSCA certified individuals who have completed the recertification process. We require each randomly selected certificant to share documentation that shows proof of compliance with recertification requirements.

To be eligible to take the CSCS® examination, candidates must fulfill certain criteria. Candidates must hold at least a bachelor's degree or currently be enrolled as a college senior at an accredited institution. Learn more about the prerequisites to sit for the CSCS® exam.

Certified Special Population Specialists® (CSPS®) are fitness professionals who, using an individualized approach, assess, motivate, educate, and train special population clients, including those with chronic and temporary health conditions. Become a certified personal trainer, then pursue this advanced personal trainer certification. CSPS® individuals train clients with medical conditions such as metabolic disease, autoimmune disorders, cancer and cardiac arrest, and address the needs of prenatal and postpartum personal training clients.