Des Plaines, IL (January 27, 2026) – The GIS Certification Institute (GISCI) is pleased to announce that 207 geospatial professionals have earned the GIS Professional (GISP®) certification following the December 2025 administration of the GISCI Geospatial Core Technical Knowledge Exam®.
Earning the GISP® credential reflects a significant professional achievement. In addition to passing the rigorous exam, these individuals met all certification requirements, including a minimum of four years of full-time geospatial work experience and demonstrated accomplishments across education, professional experience, and contributions to the profession. Additional candidates who successfully passed the December exam are eligible to earn the GISP® credential upon completion and approval of their portfolio submissions.
A total of 398 candidates participated in the December 2025 exam window, with a pass rate of 69 percent among qualified candidates—on par with the June 2025 testing session. This represents the second-highest December exam participation to date, underscoring the continued relevance and value of the GISP® certification for both employers and geospatial professionals.
The GISCI Geospatial Core Technical Knowledge Exam® is offered twice annually, in June and December, and evaluates competency across ten core areas of geospatial knowledge. The next exam administration is scheduled for June 6–14; additional information is available on the GISCI website.
GISCI congratulates the newly certified GISPs on their commitment to professional excellence and to advancing the geospatial profession.
About GISCI
The GIS Certification Institute (GISCI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the geospatial profession through the internationally recognized GISP® (Certified GIS Professional) certification. GISCI upholds rigorous professional and ethical standards while supporting professional development, community engagement, and mentoring across the geospatial workforce.
For more information, visit www.gisci.org.
Media Contact:
Tony Spicci, GISP, CGMP
Executive Director, GIS Certification Institute
847.824.7768
tspicci@gisci.org