PreGISP Certification: A Smart First Step for Emerging GIS Professionals
About the PreGISP® Program
A Credential for Emerging GIS Professionals
The PreGISP® Program is GISCI's entry-level credentialing program for individuals beginning their professional careers in the geospatial field. The program provides an opportunity to demonstrate foundational geospatial knowledge and earn the GISP-E® (Emerging GIS Professional) credential. The GISP-E is intended to help bridge the transition from academic preparation to professional practice.
What Is the GISP-E®?
The GISP-E is an entry-level professional credential for emerging geospatial professionals. It is designed for individuals who are completing their college education or have recently graduated and are beginning to build professional experience.
The GISP-E:
- Is earned by successfully passing the PreGISP Exam and agreeing to abide by the GISCI Code of Ethics.
- May be earned only once.
- Is valid for three years.
- Cannot be renewed.
- Provides an optional pathway toward the full GISP certification.
Who Is Eligible?
The PreGISP Exam is intended for individuals who meet both of the following requirements:
Education/Career Stage
You are: In your final semester of college OR A recent college graduate
Professional Experience
You have: Less than one year of post-graduation professional experience.
Both requirements must be met.
Check Your Eligibility
Who Is the GISP-E Not Designed For?
The GISP-E is not intended for:
- Students who are not yet in their final semester.
- Individuals with one year or more of post-graduation professional experience.
- Established geospatial professionals.
- Individuals seeking a permanent or renewable credential.
- Individuals who have already earned the GISP-E.
If you already have significant professional experience, the full GISP certification may be the more appropriate pathway.
What Is the PreGISP Exam?
The PreGISP Exam assesses foundational knowledge across key areas of the geospatial profession. The exam is based on the PreGISP Exam Blueprint, which was developed from geospatial education learning outcomes and relevant geospatial bodies of knowledge. The exam is intended to assess what an emerging professional should know as they enter the geospatial workforce.
It is not a substitute for professional experience, and it is not intended to assess the same level of knowledge as the GISCI Geospatial Core Technical Knowledge Exam® for the full GISP.
View the PreGISP Exam Blueprint
When Should I Earn the GISP-E?
The GISP-E is a three-year, non-renewable credential. For that reason, timing matters.
There is no advantage to earning the credential significantly earlier than you need it. Students who are still several semesters from graduation or who are transitioning directly into graduate school should consider whether now is the right time.
The credential is intended to provide the greatest benefit when you are finishing your education or entering the professional workforce.