CompTIA

CompTIA CySA+ Pass Rate 2026

Complete analysis of CompTIA CySA+ exam difficulty, pass rates, and strategies to pass on your first attempt.

Pass Rate Overview
~70%

Pass Rate

70% Pass
30% Fail

Difficulty Verdict

Moderately Challenging

Recommended Study Time

4-8 weeks

Typical Attempts

1-2 attempts typical

Why is the CompTIA CySA+ Pass Rate ~70%?

CompTIA CySA+'s ~70% pass rate means roughly 30 out of 100 candidates fail. For a hard-difficulty CompTIA exam, this is in line with expectations. Success requires covering all exam objectives — not just the ones you're comfortable with. At $392 per attempt, failing is costly. If you fail, you'll wait 14 days before retaking. The certification is valid for 3 years, so investing in solid prep pays off long-term.

Top Reasons Candidates Fail CompTIA CySA+:

30%
Lack of real-world security operations experience
25%
Focusing on tools instead of security concepts and frameworks
20%
Not understanding how to apply knowledge to scenario-based questions
15%
Underestimating the breadth of domains covered
10%
Poor time management on the adaptive exam format
How to Beat the ~70% Pass Rate

Do This for CompTIA CySA+

  • Focus on threat detection and analysis
  • Study SIEM tools and log analysis
  • Understand vulnerability management
  • Practice with performance-based questions

Avoid This

  • Memorizing tool commands without understanding security principles
  • Ignoring risk management and governance domains
  • Using only one study source instead of cross-referencing
  • Skipping the adaptive practice tests that mirror real exam format

Ready to Beat the Odds?

Get our complete CompTIA CySA+ study guide with practice questions.

View CompTIA CySA+ Guide