What Is the Format of the OSCP Exam? Full Breakdown of Structure, Scoring, and Duration

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• What Is the OSCP Exam?
• Why Is the OSCP Exam Highly Respected?
• What Is the Structure of the OSCP Exam?
• How Are Points Distributed in the OSCP Exam?
• What Is the Buffer Overflow Section in the OSCP Exam?
• Is Report Writing Mandatory in the OSCP Exam?
• What Skills Are Tested in the OSCP Exam?
• How Is the OSCP Exam Scored and Passed?
• Tools You Need to Know for OSCP Exam
• Who Should Attempt the OSCP Exam?
• What Are the Job Roles After OSCP?
• OSCP Salary Trends in India (2025)
• Why Choose Us for OSCP Preparation?
• Why Choose Us for OSCP Preparation?
• Conclusion
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Introduction

The OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional) exam is one of the most respected ethical hacking certifications in the cybersecurity industry. But what exactly is the format of the OSCP exam, and how can you prepare effectively? This blog breaks down the exam structure, content, time limits, and scoring to help you succeed. If you're aiming to become a skilled penetration tester, understanding the OSCP exam format is your first step.

What Is the OSCP Exam?

The OSCP exam is a hands-on, performance-based certification designed by Offensive Security. It tests your ability to identify and exploit vulnerabilities across multiple machines in a controlled environment. Unlike multiple-choice exams, OSCP challenges your practical skills in real-world penetration testing scenarios.

Why Is the OSCP Exam Highly Respected?

• It’s one of the few certifications that test real-world hacking skills

• Recognized by top cybersecurity employers globally

• Validates your ability to think like a hacker

• Includes both exploitation and report writing

• Required or preferred for roles like penetration tester, red team analyst, and security consultant

What Is the Structure of the OSCP Exam?

The OSCP exam format includes two major components:

How Are Points Distributed in the OSCP Exam?

Here’s a typical breakdown of the OSCP point allocation:

What Is the Buffer Overflow Section in the OSCP Exam?

One of the five machines in the exam includes a custom buffer overflow challenge. You must:

• Analyze a vulnerable Windows executable

• Write custom Python exploit code

• Gain shell access by bypassing protections like DEP or ASLR

This section is often worth 25 points and is critical to passing.

Is Report Writing Mandatory in the OSCP Exam?

Yes, report writing is a critical component. Even if you exploit all machines, you must submit a detailed penetration testing report within 24 hours.

Your report must include:

• IP addresses

• Exploitation steps

• Proof of shell (screenshot with proof.txt)

• Root or Administrator access verification

Without this, you risk failing despite successful exploits.

What Skills Are Tested in the OSCP Exam?

• Information gathering and enumeration

• Vulnerability identification

• Exploitation using custom scripts

• Post-exploitation

• Privilege escalation

• Documentation and reporting

How Is the OSCP Exam Scored and Passed?

To pass the OSCP:

• Score at least 70 out of 100 points

• Submit a professional report within 24 hours

• Bonus points can help if you're slightly below 70

• You can retake the exam if you fail (OffSec allows retakes for a fee)

Tools You Need to Know for OSCP Exam

The exam expects familiarity with tools like:

• Kali Linux

• Nmap

• Netcat

• Metasploit Framework

• Burp Suite

• Impacket

• Python for exploit development

Who Should Attempt the OSCP Exam?

Ideal candidates for OSCP are:

• Students who have completed ethical hacking or penetration testing training

• Professionals looking to validate practical hacking skills

• Bug bounty hunters aiming for advanced credibility

• Security analysts wanting red teaming skills

What Are the Job Roles After OSCP?

After passing OSCP, you can apply for roles like:

• Penetration Tester

• Red Team Member

• Cybersecurity Analyst

• Vulnerability Researcher

• SOC Analyst (Advanced Level)

OSCP Salary Trends in India (2025)

Source: Naukri.com, AmbitionBox, Glassdoor – 2025 Data

Why Choose Us for OSCP Preparation?

At Ethical Hacking Institute, we offer:

• Real-world lab simulations

• Mentorship from OffSec-certified trainers

• Access to premium exploit practice environments

• Support with OSCP report writing and exam readiness

• Lifetime access to resources and updates

How to Enroll in the OSCP Training Program?

Follow these simple steps:

1. Visit ethicalhackinginstitute.com

2. Go to the OSCP Training section

3. Fill out the enrollment form

4. Choose your batch schedule

5. Start learning with experts

Conclusion

Understanding the OSCP exam format is critical if you want to crack one of the toughest certifications in cybersecurity. From hands-on exploits to detailed report writing, the exam is a full-spectrum test of your hacking skills. With the right preparation, tools, and guidance from our experts at Ethical Hacking Institute, you can confidently clear the OSCP and boost your ethical hacking career.

✅ Ready to start your OSCP journey?
Visit ethicalhackinginstitute.com and enroll today!

FAQs:

What is the format of the OSCP exam?

The OSCP exam is a 23-hour, hands-on lab-based exam where you exploit five target machines and submit a detailed penetration test report.

How many machines are in the OSCP exam?

The exam consists of five machines with varying point values based on difficulty, including one buffer overflow challenge.

What is the passing score for the OSCP exam?

You need to score at least 70 out of 100 points to pass the OSCP exam.

How long is the OSCP exam?

The OSCP exam duration is 23 hours and 45 minutes, followed by a 24-hour window to submit your report.

What happens if I don’t submit the report on time?

Failure to submit the OSCP report within 24 hours will result in automatic failure of the exam.

Is there a buffer overflow in the OSCP exam?

Yes, one machine typically includes a buffer overflow vulnerability and is usually worth 25 points.

Can I use Metasploit in the OSCP exam?

You can use Metasploit only on one target machine, and its use must be properly documented in your report.

How are OSCP exam points distributed?

Points are typically distributed as 25 (BOF), 2x20, and 2x10, with an additional 10 points possible through the exam report.

Is report writing mandatory in OSCP?

Yes, report writing is mandatory and contributes to your overall score. Missing it can cause failure even if you exploit machines.

What tools should I know for the OSCP exam?

Essential tools include Kali Linux, Nmap, Burp Suite, Netcat, Python, and manual exploitation scripts.

Can I retake the OSCP exam if I fail?

Yes, you can retake the exam by purchasing an additional exam attempt from Offensive Security.

What type of machines are in the OSCP exam?

Machines range from Windows to Linux and vary in difficulty. They simulate real-world penetration testing environments.

Do I get bonus points in OSCP for the report?

Yes, a properly documented and structured report can earn you an additional 10 points.

What should the OSCP report include?

The report must include exploitation steps, screenshots of shells, root proofs, and system enumeration.

Is the OSCP exam proctored?

Yes, the OSCP exam is proctored via webcam and screen monitoring throughout the duration.

What happens after submitting the OSCP report?

You will receive results within 10 business days after submitting your exam report.

Is OSCP suitable for beginners?

It is recommended for those with foundational knowledge in ethical hacking, Linux, and scripting.

How many attempts do I get for the OSCP exam?

You get one attempt with your course enrollment. Additional attempts can be purchased.

Do I need programming knowledge for OSCP?

Yes, knowledge of scripting (especially Python and Bash) is important for exploit development and automation.

Is there a lab environment during the OSCP exam?

Yes, the exam is conducted in a private lab environment provided by Offensive Security.

Can I pause the OSCP exam?

No, the exam runs continuously for 23 hours and 45 minutes and cannot be paused.

What is the difficulty level of the OSCP exam?

It’s considered an intermediate to advanced exam, testing real-world penetration testing skills under pressure.

Does the OSCP exam include privilege escalation?

Yes, privilege escalation is a required step to fully compromise target machines.

Are screenshots required in the OSCP report?

Yes, screenshots showing proof.txt files and shell access are mandatory for report validation.

What operating systems are used in the OSCP exam?

Both Windows and Linux machines are included to reflect a variety of real-world scenarios.

What happens if I lose connection during the OSCP exam?

Offensive Security provides technical support, but the timer continues during outages.

How do I prepare for the OSCP exam format?

Practice exploiting vulnerable machines, study buffer overflows, and simulate full reporting to match exam conditions.

What certifications are similar to OSCP?

Similar certifications include CRTP, PNPT, CEH (Practical), and eCPPT, but OSCP is often considered more rigorous.

How soon can I retake OSCP after failing?

You can retake the exam as soon as you schedule and purchase a new attempt.

Where can I get OSCP training in Pune?

You can enroll in OSCP exam preparation at Ethical Hacking Institute Pune for expert-led training, labs, and mentoring.