PreGISP® / GISP-E® Frequently Asked Questions
Eligibility
Who can take the PreGISP Exam?
You must be:
- In your final semester of college OR a recent college graduate; AND
- Have less than one year of post-graduation professional experience.
Can I take the exam before my final semester?
No. The PreGISP Exam is intended for students in their final semester and recent graduates.
Can I take the exam after graduation?
Yes. Recent graduates may take the exam as long as they meet the applicable experience requirement.
I graduated six months ago. Can I take the exam?
Yes, assuming you meet the other eligibility requirements.
I graduated two years ago. Can I take the exam?
Eligibility depends on whether you meet GISCI's definition of a recent graduate and the applicable experience requirement. The experience requirement is less than one year of professional experience.
Temporary Eligibility Exception
For the November 2026 and April 2027 PreGISP examinations only, candidates may have less than two years of post-graduation professional experience.
I have six months of professional experience. Can I take the exam?
Yes, assuming you meet the other eligibility requirements.
I have more than one year of professional experience. Can I take the exam?
Under the standard eligibility requirement, no.
Does an internship count?
Experience gained as part of your education does not by itself make you ineligible for the PreGISP Exam.
Can graduate students take the PreGISP Exam?
The PreGISP Exam is intended for individuals entering the professional workforce. If you are in your final semester of your qualifying degree or are a recent graduate and meet the experience requirement, you may be eligible.
I'm going directly from undergraduate school into graduate school. Should I take it?
You may be eligible depending on your circumstances, but consider the timing carefully.
The GISP-E is valid for three years and cannot be renewed. There is no advantage to earning it significantly earlier than you need it.
The GISP-E Credential
How long is the GISP-E valid?
Three years.
Can I renew the GISP-E?
No.
Can I earn the GISP-E more than once?
No.
Does the GISP-E automatically become a GISP?
No. The GISP-E and GISP are separate credentials. You must meet all requirements for the GISP certification.
Do I have to earn the GISP-E to become a GISP?
No. The GISP-E is optional.
Does the GISP-E reduce the GISP experience requirement?
Yes. A GISP-E holder may qualify for the GISP with three years of professional experience rather than the standard four years, provided all other requirements are met.
The Exam
How long is the PreGISP Exam?
Two hours.
How many questions are on the exam?
75 scored questions.
Is the exam online?
Yes. The exam is administered through proctored Pearson testing.
When is the exam offered?
The PreGISP Exam is offered each year in April and November.
Will I receive a numerical score?
No. Results are reported as Pass/Fail.
Is there a PreGISP Study Guide?
GISCI does not provide a traditional PreGISP Study Guide. The PreGISP Exam Blueprint is the primary resource for understanding exam content.
Where can I find the exam content?
[View the PreGISP Exam Blueprint →]
Still Have Questions?
If you are unsure whether you meet the eligibility requirements, contact GISCI before registering and paying for the exam.
[Contact GISCI →]