Can You Retake the OSCP Exam? Understanding the OSCP Exam Retake Policy, Costs, and Preparation Tips for Success

Table of Contents

• Can You Retake the OSCP Exam?
• OSCP Exam Retake Policy Overview
• How Much Does It Cost to Retake the OSCP Exam?
• What Happens If You Fail the OSCP Exam?
• Tips for Retaking the OSCP Exam Successfully
• How Many Times Can You Retake the OSCP Exam?
• Can You Upgrade to Higher Certifications After Retakes?
• Ethical Hacking Institute’s Support for OSCP Retakers
• OSCP Exam Retake Policy at a Glance
• Conclusion
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) certification is one of the most respected credentials in ethical hacking and penetration testing. It is well-known for its rigorous practical exam, which tests candidates' real-world skills in penetration testing over a 24-hour hands-on challenge.

Given the exam’s difficulty, many candidates wonder, “Can you retake the OSCP exam if you don’t pass the first time?” and want to understand the retake policy in detail. This blog answers those questions and provides important insights about the OSCP exam retake procedures, rules, costs, and tips for success on a retake.

Can You Retake the OSCP Exam?

Yes, you can retake the OSCP exam if you do not pass on your first attempt. Offensive Security allows candidates who have not achieved the passing score of 70 points to schedule a retake after completing additional preparation.

Retaking the OSCP exam is common among aspirants due to the exam’s challenging nature, and it is designed to encourage further skill development before the next attempt.

OSCP Exam Retake Policy Overview

Here’s an overview of the official OSCP exam retake policy:

• Eligibility: Candidates who have failed the exam (score below 70) can retake the exam.

• Retake Fee: There is a reduced retake fee compared to the full exam price. This fee varies depending on when you purchase the exam voucher or training package.

• Time Between Attempts: Typically, there is no mandatory wait period enforced between exam attempts. However, candidates are encouraged to spend enough time preparing before retaking.

• Voucher Validity: Exam vouchers may have an expiration date, so it is essential to verify your exam window before scheduling a retake.

• Training Course Purchase: If you purchased an OSCP training course with the exam included, retake options and costs might differ. Some packages include one or more retake vouchers.

How Much Does It Cost to Retake the OSCP Exam?

The cost to retake the OSCP exam is significantly lower than the initial exam fee but can vary depending on your purchase method:

• Retake Voucher Price: Usually around $150 to $200 USD.

• Initial Exam Price: The first attempt typically costs around $1,000 USD when bundled with labs and training.

It is best to check the official Offensive Security website for the most current retake pricing and policies before planning your exam.

What Happens If You Fail the OSCP Exam?

If you score less than 70 points, you will receive a detailed feedback report from Offensive Security, outlining areas of success and improvement. This report helps you identify:

• Weaknesses in penetration testing techniques

• Areas to focus on such as buffer overflow, enumeration, privilege escalation, or report writing

• Mistakes or omissions in your exam submission

You will then be eligible to schedule a retake exam once you feel ready.

Tips for Retaking the OSCP Exam Successfully

1. Analyze Your Feedback Report Thoroughly

Review the feedback carefully to understand which areas cost you points and what needs improvement.

2. Practice More in the Labs

Use Offensive Security’s PWK lab environment extensively to reinforce your skills on the types of machines and vulnerabilities that appeared in your exam.

3. Focus on Report Writing

The exam requires a clear, comprehensive penetration testing report. Make sure your documentation is detailed and well-structured.

4. Work on Time Management

During your first attempt, you might have spent too much time on one machine. Plan your time better to exploit multiple machines and complete your report.

5. Master Buffer Overflow Challenges

Buffer overflow exploits carry a significant point weight in the OSCP exam. Make sure you are comfortable with buffer overflow concepts and hands-on exploitation.

6. Seek Guidance and Support

Consider joining study groups or enrolling in specialized OSCP preparation courses such as those offered by Ethical Hacking Institute, which provides expert mentoring and real exam simulations.

How Many Times Can You Retake the OSCP Exam?

There is no official limit on the number of times you can retake the OSCP exam. However, each retake requires a fee, so it’s important to prepare thoroughly before scheduling subsequent attempts.

Can You Upgrade to Higher Certifications After Retakes?

Yes, once you pass the OSCP exam, you become eligible to pursue advanced Offensive Security certifications such as OSWP (Offensive Security Wireless Professional), OSCE (Offensive Security Certified Expert), or OSWE (Offensive Security Web Expert) without affecting your exam retakes.

Ethical Hacking Institute’s Support for OSCP Retakers

Ethical Hacking Institute offers dedicated support for candidates preparing to retake the OSCP exam:

• Comprehensive review sessions to cover weak points identified in your first attempt.

• Time-managed lab practice simulating real exam conditions.

• Detailed report writing workshops to perfect your documentation skills.

• Personalized mentorship to boost confidence and skills.

OSCP Exam Retake Policy at a Glance

Conclusion

Retaking the OSCP exam is a normal part of many candidates’ journeys given the exam’s complexity. The key to success on a retake is learning from your previous attempt, practicing intensively, improving your report writing, and managing your exam time wisely.

If you are considering a retake, make sure to utilize all available resources, including lab environments and expert guidance from trusted training institutes. With the right approach, passing the OSCP exam on your retake is absolutely achievable.

FAQs

What is the official OSCP exam retake policy?

The official policy allows candidates to retake the OSCP exam if they fail the first attempt, with a reduced retake fee and no mandatory waiting period.

How much does it cost to retake the OSCP exam?

Retake fees typically range between $150 and $200 USD, which is significantly lower than the initial exam cost.

Is there a limit on how many times you can retake the OSCP exam?

No, there is no official limit on the number of retakes, but each retake requires paying the retake fee.

Do I receive feedback after failing the OSCP exam?

Yes, Offensive Security provides a detailed feedback report highlighting your weak areas to help you improve.

Can I schedule my OSCP retake immediately after failing?

There is no mandatory waiting period, but it is recommended to spend adequate time preparing before retaking.

Are retake exam vouchers valid indefinitely?

No, exam vouchers have an expiration date, so check your voucher validity before scheduling a retake.

What are the best ways to prepare for an OSCP retake?

Focus on practicing labs, reviewing your feedback report, improving buffer overflow skills, enhancing time management, and perfecting your report writing.

Does Ethical Hacking Institute offer support for OSCP retakers?

Yes, they provide mentoring, lab simulations, report writing workshops, and personalized guidance for retake candidates.

Can I upgrade to higher Offensive Security certifications after passing OSCP?

Yes, after passing OSCP, you can pursue advanced certifications like OSCE, OSWP, or OSWE.

Is passing the OSCP exam difficult?

Yes, it is known for its challenging practical exam requiring hands-on penetration testing skills and detailed reporting.

What score is required to pass the OSCP exam?

A minimum score of 70 points out of 100 is required to pass the OSCP exam.

How long is the OSCP exam retake voucher valid?

Voucher validity varies; confirm your voucher’s expiration date on the official Offensive Security site.

Does the OSCP exam retake fee include lab access?

No, the retake fee typically covers only the exam. Lab access is part of the training package purchased separately.

Can retaking the OSCP exam improve my chances of passing?

Yes, using feedback and focusing on weak points significantly increases the likelihood of passing on a retake.

Is the OSCP retake exam format the same as the original?

Yes, the retake exam format and structure remain consistent with the original OSCP exam.

What is the duration of the OSCP exam?

The OSCP exam is a 24-hour hands-on practical test followed by 24 hours to submit the penetration testing report.

Are there study groups for OSCP retake candidates?

Yes, many online communities and forums exist where retake candidates share tips and resources.

How important is report writing for the OSCP exam?

Report writing is crucial and carries significant weight in the exam scoring.

What topics should I focus on for the OSCP retake?

Concentrate on buffer overflow, enumeration, privilege escalation, and report documentation.

Can I schedule the OSCP exam retake anytime?

Yes, subject to voucher validity and availability on the Offensive Security exam portal.

Are online OSCP training courses helpful for retakes?

Yes, structured online training with labs and mentorship can enhance preparation significantly.

Does failing the OSCP exam affect future certification attempts?

No, failing once does not impact your eligibility for future Offensive Security certifications.

Can I combine OSCP retakes with other Offensive Security courses?

Retakes are handled separately, but you can enroll in other courses alongside retake preparation.

Is the OSCP exam open book?

Yes, the exam is open book, allowing use of your own notes and tools during the test.

Are there penalties for rescheduling OSCP exam retakes?

Rescheduling policies vary; check Offensive Security guidelines for current rules.

How should I manage my time during the OSCP retake exam?

Plan to allocate time across multiple machines and leave sufficient time for report writing.

Is the OSCP exam harder on a retake?

The difficulty level remains consistent, but better preparation usually improves outcomes.

Do I need to inform Offensive Security before retaking the exam?

You must purchase a retake voucher and schedule the exam through their official platform.

Are OSCP retake vouchers transferable?

Typically, exam vouchers are non-transferable and linked to your account.

What happens if I fail the OSCP exam multiple times?

You can continue retaking as long as you pay the retake fee and maintain your exam eligibility.