Q: How does the HSSCS process work?
A: First, you must select to prepare for the course with either physical or digital materials and then complete your registration.
Upon registration, you will have access to your personal IYCA account to view all the information you need. Physical course materials will arrive in 10-14 days. Digital materials are available immediately.
After going through all of the materials and preparing to take the exam, you will register for the exam. This process usually takes between 2-3 weeks. If this is your first IYCA course, it may take you a little longer, and if you are a current IYCA Credential holder, you will likely be able to prepare much quicker.
You will have 365 days after purchasing your course materials to register for and complete the 75-question exam. There are no additional costs to take the exam. You have one attempt to pass and 2 hours to complete the exam.
If you do not pass on your first attempt, you may purchase a retest for $50.
Q: How long does it take to prepare for the exam?
A: More than 87% of our coaches complete their exam within 90 days, and most performance coaches only take 2-3 weeks to prepare for the exam.
Q: Will any materials be mailed to me?
A: If you selected to receive hard copies of the materials, you will be mailed your course study materials, and they should arrive within 10-14 days of your order.
If you selected the Digital option, all your materials will be accessible instantly in your personal IYCA Account.
Q: I already purchased the Principles of Athletic Strength & Conditioning textbook. Do I have to buy it again?
A: No. There is an option to purchase the course without the PASC textbook for anyone who already has it. You should only select this option if you already have this textbook. The digital version includes ALL of the materials including the PASC textbook.
Q: I live outside the US. Can I still earn the HSSCS credential?
A: Absolutely! We have High School Strength & Conditioning Specialists from all over the world. Our online platform and education center allows for easy access to your materials and avoids high shipping costs.
Our course materials are all in English, which is the only consideration you need to make if you are outside of the US.
Q: Are there any prerequisite certifications such as the IYCA Youth Fitness Specialist that I need to have before taking this?
A: No, there are no prerequisites to earning your HSSCS credentials.
Q: When will I receive my Certificate?
A: Once you have completed and passed your exam, we will register you in our Global Database as a High School Strength & Conditioning Specialist. It can take up to two weeks for your certificate to be mailed to you.