Is the OSCP Exam Open Book? What You Need to Know About Allowed Resources and Exam Rules

The OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional) exam is one of the most respected certifications in the cybersecurity field, especially for penetration testers and ethical hackers. If you’re preparing for this challenging exam, you might be wondering: Is the OSCP exam open book? This blog will break down everything you need to know about the exam format, rules, and what resources you can use during the OSCP exam.

What Does "Open Book" Mean in Certification Exams?

An open book exam typically allows candidates to use their study materials, notes, or textbooks while taking the test. This format focuses on assessing your ability to apply knowledge rather than just memorizing facts.

Is the OSCP Exam Open Book?

The OSCP exam is partially open book. Unlike many other exams, the OSCP permits candidates to access their own notes, scripts, and the PWK (Penetration Testing with Kali Linux) course materials during the exam. However, access to external help such as the internet, forums, or other people is strictly prohibited.

What You Can Use During the OSCP Exam:

• Your personal notes taken during training

• Lab documentation provided by Offensive Security

• Your own scripts or tools you created during practice

• Kali Linux tools and utilities installed on your exam machine

What Is Not Allowed:

• Internet access for searching solutions

• Communication with others or third parties

• Using external websites or forums for help

• Sharing or receiving exam-related information

Why Is the OSCP Exam Partially Open Book?

The OSCP exam is designed to test practical, real-world penetration testing skills under realistic conditions. Allowing candidates to use notes and personal resources simulates how ethical hackers work in professional settings—using knowledge, tools, and resources to solve problems efficiently.

This approach tests your:

• Problem-solving skills

• Ability to research and apply techniques independently

• Hands-on expertise with tools and methodologies

How to Prepare Your Materials for the OSCP Exam

Since you can bring your notes and scripts, preparation should include organizing your resources effectively:

Does Being Open Book Make the OSCP Exam Easier?

Not necessarily. The OSCP exam’s partially open book nature does not reduce the difficulty level. The exam lasts 24 hours and requires exploiting multiple machines with varying complexity. The challenge lies in applying your knowledge practically, often under time pressure, with limited support.

Key Takeaways About the OSCP Exam Being Open Book

• The OSCP exam allows only your own prepared notes and scripts.

• No internet or external communication is permitted.

• Effective preparation means having well-organized, quick-access materials.

• Practical skills and problem-solving are the main focus, not rote memorization.

• The open book format reflects real-world penetration testing scenarios.

Final Thoughts: How to Maximize Your OSCP Exam Success

To succeed in the OSCP exam, treat your notes and scripts as valuable tools, but focus on understanding concepts deeply. Build your own cheat sheet during your PWK training and practice extensively in labs. Use your resources strategically during the exam to save time and troubleshoot difficult problems.

Institutes like Ethical Hacking Institute provide hands-on OSCP training and guidance that helps you prepare efficiently for the exam’s open book nature.

If you want to explore OSCP exam preparation strategies or enroll in a comprehensive OSCP training course, reach out to experts and get the right support to boost your chances of success!

FAQs 

Is the OSCP exam fully open book?

No, the OSCP exam is partially open book; you can use your personal notes, scripts, and course materials but cannot access the internet or communicate externally.

Can I access the internet during the OSCP exam?

No, internet access is strictly prohibited during the OSCP exam.

Are personal scripts allowed in the OSCP exam?

Yes, you can use scripts and tools you have prepared during your training.

Can I use the official PWK course materials during the exam?

Yes, the PWK course documentation provided by Offensive Security is accessible during the exam.

Is collaboration allowed during the OSCP exam?

No, collaboration or communication with others is forbidden during the exam.

How long is the OSCP exam?

The OSCP exam duration is 24 hours.

Does the open book nature make the OSCP exam easier?

Not necessarily; the exam tests practical skills under time constraints, making it challenging despite access to notes.

How should I prepare my notes for the OSCP exam?

Organize concise summaries, scripts, and bookmarks for quick reference during the exam.

Can I bring printed notes to the OSCP exam?

Since the exam is remote, you can use digital notes but cannot bring physical notes unless specified by Offensive Security.

What tools are available in the OSCP exam environment?

The exam environment includes Kali Linux tools and utilities essential for penetration testing.

Is the OSCP exam open book for all sections?

Yes, for the practical exam portion, you can use notes, but other restrictions apply.

What happens if I use the internet during the OSCP exam?

Using the internet violates exam rules and can result in disqualification.

Can I use third-party tools during the OSCP exam?

Only tools included in Kali Linux or your own scripts are allowed; external tools are generally not permitted.

How important is time management in the OSCP exam?

Time management is critical due to the 24-hour exam window and multiple target machines.

Are there official guidelines for allowed resources in the OSCP exam?

Yes, Offensive Security provides clear rules about allowed and prohibited resources.

Does using notes replace the need for hands-on practice?

No, practical skills and experience are essential; notes only assist during the exam.

Can I use screenshots or previous lab notes during the exam?

You can use your own digital notes and screenshots but cannot access external sources.

Is the OSCP exam format changing soon?

Check the Offensive Security official website for the latest exam updates.

How do OSCP trainers recommend preparing notes?

Trainers advise creating easy-to-navigate notes focusing on commands, scripts, and common exploits.

Can I use cheat sheets during the OSCP exam?

Personal cheat sheets you create are allowed and highly recommended.

What is the best way to organize scripts for the OSCP exam?

Organize scripts by category and function with clear naming for quick execution.

Does Offensive Security monitor exam activity?

Yes, exam activity is monitored to enforce exam rules.

How should I handle unknown challenges during the exam?

Use your knowledge, notes, and problem-solving skills without external help.

Is collaboration allowed after the exam for study purposes?

Collaboration is allowed after the exam but never during.

Are video tutorials allowed during the OSCP exam?

No, video tutorials or any multimedia resources are not allowed.

Can I access my personal files during the OSCP exam?

You can only access files you have prepared and uploaded per exam guidelines.

How important is familiarity with Kali Linux tools for the OSCP exam?

Extremely important, as the exam environment is Kali Linux-based.

Is the OSCP exam open book for the report writing section?

The exam includes a report submission phase where notes can be used.

Where can I find official OSCP exam rules?

Rules are available on the Offensive Security official website.