DestCert vs Sans: Understanding the Key Differences

The Easiest
Way to Get Your CISSP Certification


CISSP training that focuses on what you need to learn —
at a pace that works for you

Prepare to confidently pass
the CISSP exam

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Why choose the DestCert MasterClass over SANS


A CISSP MasterClass that adapts to your learning journey. Discover how DestCert's innovative approach to exam preparation outshines SANS Institute's CISSP course, making it the premier choice for aspiring cybersecurity professionals.

Key Features Comparison

Note: SANS Institute provides CISSP training in three formats: OnDemand (self-paced), Live Online (virtual instructor-led), and In-Person classes (primarily in the US). Each format follows the same curriculum but offers different levels of flexibility and interaction. Students should consider their schedule, learning preferences, and location when choosing an option. The In-Person classes typically last six days, which may require careful planning for those with busy schedules.

Feature

DestCert

SANS

Course Structure

PAID

PAID

ALL of the study materials you need

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Personalized Study Schedule

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Depends on the course

Weekly Live Q&A Calls

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1-on-1 Mentoring Sessions*

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Flashcard App

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Practice Question App

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MindMap Review Videos

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Proven Exam Strategies

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Active Community Support
(Discord, Reddit)

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Printed Guidebook and Workbook*

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Integrated Learning System

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Comprehensive Exam Preparation

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Personalized Review Guide

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Certified and Experienced Instructors

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Video Lectures

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Downloadable Resources

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Lifetime Access

Available in Premier Plan

Value for Money

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Flexible, Self-Paced Learning

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Option available

Variety of Teaching Styles

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 *Included with Preferred & Premier MasterClasses (DestCert)

Transform your CISSP prep.

Plans and Pricing Comparison

Plan

Price

Content

Access

SANS Institute (On-demand, live online, and in-person)

$8,525 (excl. VAT)

Printed and electronic course books, 320 practice questions, MP3 audio files, and a digital index to all materials offered

Depends on the course

DestCert Essential
CISSP MasterClass

$1,497

Everything you need to confidently pass the exam:
In-depth study material, full access to the learning system, MasterClass videos, PDF workbook, CISSP Guidebook, personalized schedule, weekly group mentoring, flashcard app, practice question app, MindMap videos, exam strategies, and practice exam

1 year

DestCert Preferred
CISSP MasterClass

$1,997

Everything in Essential, plus 2 x one-hour 1-on-1 mentoring sessions, printed CISSP workbook and guidebook, unlimited email support

3 years

DestCert Premier
CISSP MasterClass

$4,997

Everything in Preferred, plus unlimited personal 1-on-1 mentoring, and an iPad

Lifetime

*amount converted to USD, approximate estimate

Success Rates and Outcomes

Destination Certification

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Exceptional First-Time

Pass Rate

Our CISSP MasterClass boasts an impressive 93.6% first-time pass rate, showcasing the effectiveness of our comprehensive preparation approach.

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Rapid Certification

Achievement

Many of our dedicated students successfully pass the CISSP exam in as little as 14 to 30 days, fast-tracking their cybersecurity career advancement.

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Diverse Learner 

Success

Our adaptive learning system ensures that students from various backgrounds—whether highly technical or new to cybersecurity—can excel, optimizing study time and boosting confidence.

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Real-World

Application

Graduates consistently report immediate improvements in their professional capabilities, applying course knowledge directly to workplace scenarios.

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These are just a few success stories

CCSP student Rodrigo Souza - Destination Certification

Rodrigo Souza

Exam pass date: April 1, 2025

CCSP Masterclass – What a masterpiece! Well done on this incredible work. In addition, the strategy worked out! Thinking like a CEO made all the difference to me in passing the exam. HUGE THANK YOU!

CISSP student Kumar S S S K - Destination Certification

Kumar S S S K

Exam pass date: March 27, 2025

The sheer experience and knowledge that DC instructors bring on to the table is impeccable. They provide a learning experience which propels the aspirants to completely immerse in the learning journey and when immersed with sincerity, one can say they are not only getting trained to attempt the CISSP examination but also become a responsible and sound Information Security professional of tomorrow who can serve our society to make an impact that truly matters.

CISSP student Sean Fleming - Destination Certification

Sean Fleming

Exam pass date: March 26, 2025

The Destination Certification team is fantastic! The material is well structured, engaging, and reassured me that the focus is on value. I found the way the service helped me focus on the weaker areas of my knowledge was a game changer in terms of effort/reward.

CISSP student Joe Koh - Destination Certification

Joe Koh

Exam pass date: March 25, 2025

I used DestCert to prepare for CISSP. The material was well-structured and engaging. Mindmaps helped me understand how different topics fit together. The personalized review helped me target my weaker areas of knowledge, making my study efficient. DestCert is a valuable resource in my exam preparation.

CISSP student Devin Tauber - Destination Certification

Devin Tauber

Exam pass date: March 24, 2025

Earning the CISSP felt like a daunting, almost impossible challenge. But I watched all the videos, read the book, reviewed flashcards and grew confident enough to sit it after three months. Though it is a really hard exam, the material was accurate and enough for me to pass at 100 questions on my first attempt. I highly recommend DestCert to anyone preparing for these exams.

CISSP student Daniel LeFevre - Destination Certification

Daniel LeFevre

Exam pass date: March 19, 2025

Preparing for and taking the CISSP exam can feel like a daunting task. DestCert's CISSP MasterClass helps plan out everything for you, and leads you through each of the many topics with engaging video content. I used their MasterClass (as well as Quantum Exams) to prepare for the exam and I passed the first time at 100 questions! I would 100% recommend DestCert in future to anyone looking to pass the CISSP exam. Their first time pass rate speaks for itself!

CISSP student Andrew Rinaldo - Destination Certification

Andrew Rinaldo

Exam pass date: March 17, 2025

I took DestCert Masterclass, did the videos, assessments per domain, practice questions on the apps and flashcard while commuting. I read the book a few days before the exam to review the materials again. I only used them and one extra practice test. Easy to follow and understand, if you have got enough experience in the field, using their Masterclass would be enough to pass. Highly recommended.

CISSP student Jesse Giambatista - Destination Certification

Jesse Giambatista

Exam pass date: March 14, 2025

I found the DestCert material and questions to be excellent preparation for the CISSP exam. In particular I found the mindmaps to be a great resource for identifying topics to revisit during the home stretch.  

In going through DestCert I feel like I might have finally found my calling. Going through this course made me realize I'd much rather teach people about Technology Security than try to push the security boulder up a hill while everything in the world is on the opposite side trying to roll it right over me. Listening to Rob and John made me realize that there's a lot of value in what they do, and they are able to touch and impact technologists and companies all over the world to help fight the good fight. 

CISSP student Jason Miller - Destination Certification

Jason Miller

Exam pass date: March 11, 2025

I successfully passed the CISSP exam in March 2025 using the DestCert student workbook, training videos, mind maps, practice questions and flashcards thru the website and mobile app. In my case, I purchased the CISSP MasterClass. While the training materials are first rate, the mindset of “think like a CEO” as well as John Berti’s video on test-taking tips was hugely helpful and directly contributed to helping me pass the exam after just 100 questions. Importantly, DestCert is the ONLY training material I used for CISSP exam preparation, and I absolutely recommend DestCert for anyone considering the CISSP exam.

CISSP student Kyle Petro - Destination Certification

Kyle Petro

Exam pass date: March 10, 2025

Rob and John played an instrumental role in my success with the CISSP. Their teaching style and ability to present complex material in an easily digestible and engaging manner were truly exceptional. They not only made the learning process enjoyable but also genuinely inspired confidence in their students. I wholeheartedly and enthusiastically recommend this outstanding team to both individuals and businesses seeking top-notch training for Cybersecurity/GRC!

CISSP student Jermaine Turnage - Destination Certification

Jermaine Turnage

Exam pass date: March 5, 2025

The Destination Certification CISSP course was the key to my success in passing the exam. Rob and John’s teaching style gets right to the point and makes it easy to focus on the most important parts of each domain. Their advice to “think like a CEO” was also extremely helpful and really made the difference in my approach to the exam questions. I can’t thank the team enough for their commitment and passion to teach and help others accomplish this important milestone. Trust the system! It works.

CISSP student Tyler Beels - Destination Certification

Tyler Beels

Exam pass date: February 27, 2025

Destination Certification is the key factor I attribute to my success in achieving the CISSP. The comprehensive suite of materials—including online videos, flashcards, practice questions, discord channel, weekly calls, and expert guidance—provided everything I needed to conquer the CISSP journey. A big thank you to the Destination Certification team!

CISSP student Jasmine Kang - Destination Certification

Jasmine Kang

Exam pass date: February 21, 2025

Destination Certification has proven to be a valuable investment, as it provided me with the necessary skills and knowledge to successfully pass on my first attempt! John and Rob are very passionate about teaching, and I love that they lead AMAs every week with their students. I can't wait to try another Destination Certification program when I'm ready for my next certification 🙂

CISSP student Jamie Woodland - Destination Certification

Jamie Woodland

Exam pass date: January 31, 2025

I was extremely fortunate to find DestCert when I did, it made an incredible difference to my journey to CISSP. Your mentorship, guidance and encouragement were integral to achieving this result. By directing my focus to the concepts was important in the context of my exam which tested the practical implementation of what I had learnt over the past 8 or so weeks. 

CISSP student Ryan Yagatich - Destination Certification

Ryan Yagatich

Exam pass date: January 23, 2025

I embarked on the Destination Certification program, as I was feeling overwhelmed and unprepared for the CISSP exam. Having been out of school for over 20 years, I had forgotten how to study or even how "the right way to learn". With their daily guidance, I conquered the exam after only 100 questions and in an astonishing 90 minutes! The system taught me well beyond the CISSP material as it even helped me understand the perspectives and goals of executives who I previously didn't. My success is a testament to the incredible Destination Certification program and team, and I am forever grateful and excited about the knowledge and skills I have gained through this journey.

CISSP student Mirza Gogic - Destination Certification

Mirza Gogic

Exam pass date: January 23, 2025

I highly recommend Destination Certification for anyone preparing for the CISSP exam. Their structured and well-organized course content, combined with easy-to-follow, pedagogical videos, provided me with a solid foundation for success. Unlike many other courses, their approach kept me motivated throughout my studies, thanks to practical tips and guidance from the entire team during our conversations. The quality of their materials and expert support truly made the difference in helping me pass the exam.

CISSP student Nomura, Makiko - Destination Certification

Makiko Nomura

Exam pass date: January 20, 2025

This course truly prepared me for the exam even though I took it in Japanese, plus it taught me lots of industry standard security-related English expressions that I can use in real work situations.

CCSP student Murthy Mantha - Destination Certification

Murthy Mantha

Exam pass date: January 8, 2025

I passed both the CISSP and CCSP exams using Destination Certification. With 90 days of focused study, their comprehensive materials and support helped me pass CISSP on April 9, 2024, and CCSP on January 8, 2025.

CISSP student Steven Tiller - Destination Certification

Steven Tiller

Exam pass date: January 3, 2025

DestCert really helped give me a peace of mind on exam day, that test likes to play tricks on you and make you second guess yourself, but DestCert is structured to not only provide you with the knowledge but it also gives you a firm confidence in yourself.

CISSP student Todd Chapman - Destination Certification

Todd Chapman

Exam pass date: December 31, 2024

I appreciated the format of the Destination Certification program. The multiple modes served as an effective method for reinforcing the materials. The subject matter was focused allowing for efficient learning in a compressed timeframe. I passed the test with the minimum amount of questions because I heard John's voice incessantly in my head saying, "Think like a CEO."

CISSP student Peter Student - Destination Certification

Peter Student

Exam pass date: December 30, 2024

I solely used DestCert resources to prepare, but I used all of them to the full...videos, mindmaps, printed book, ebook, flashcards, sample questions, etc. Without getting lost in too many details, DestCert provided me with the central understanding needed for each concept, and this clearly enabled me to pass the CISSP. When I took the exam, there were many questions were challenging and appeared to be beyond my scope, yet I had enough knowledge to be successful. I was happy to not only pass the exam, but deepen my knowledge across the cybersecurity industry. A foundation I intend to further grow from.

CISSP student Wesley Barrier - Destination Certification

Wesley Barrier

Exam pass date: December 30, 2024

Destination Certification is an excellent resource if you can make the price work. Dest Cert videos are professional and engaging. Rob and John really draw you in and bring flavor to dry content.

Dest Cert Mindmaps (available outside of the class on youtube) are crucial for understanding how something fits into everything else. ESPECIALLY the mindmaps on the processes. I watched them all multiple times, and memorized a bunch of them.

CISSP student Alberto Afonso - Destination Certification

Alberto Afonso

Exam pass date: December 30, 2024

Regarding my experience with Destination Certification, I have to say that stunding for CISSP with you guys, was beyond all my expectations. This is the best training course material I ever studied for certification. It not only prepared me to pass this challenging exam, but above all it helped me to become a better cyber security professional.

SANS Institute

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Limited Outcome

Data

While SANS Institute is recognized for cybersecurity training, specific pass rate data for their CISSP course is not publicly available, making it challenging to compare success rates directly.

User Experience & Support

Destination Certification

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Comprehensive All-in-One Package

Our CISSP MasterClass provides everything you need for exam success. No need to juggle multiple resources or spend extra on supplementary materials—it's all here, perfectly aligned and ready for your journey.

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Adaptive Learning Ecosystem

More than just a course, our platform is your personal CISSP command center. It evolves with your progress, guiding you through over 170 targeted video lessons and tailored written content, ensuring your study path is as efficient as it is thorough.

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Flexibility Meets Structure

Your CISSP prep adapts to your life, not vice versa. Whether you're an early bird or a night owl, our system helps you craft a study schedule that harmonizes with your unique rhythm while keeping you on track for success.

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Multi-Channel Support System

Navigate your CISSP journey with confidence, knowing assistance is always at hand. Leverage our responsive email support, engage in bi-weekly live Q&A sessions for real-time problem-solving, or tap into our active Discord and Reddit communities for diverse perspectives and peer support.

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Personalized Mentoring

For users of our Preferred and Premier plans, we offer valuable 1-on-1 mentoring sessions. These personalized meetings with CISSP experts provide tailored guidance, helping you navigate challenging concepts and develop effective study strategies aligned with your individual needs.

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Interactive Learning Arsenal

Transform your study sessions into an engaging adventure. Flip through our dynamic flashcard app, test your knowledge with our practice question engine, or visualize complex concepts with our exclusive MindMap videos. It's not just learning—it's an immersive CISSP experience.

SANS Institute

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Different Learning Format

SANS offers their CISSP training in three distinct modes: OnDemand for self-paced study, Live Online for real-time virtual instruction, and In-Person for traditional classroom experiences. This variety allows students to choose a learning method that best fits their schedule and preferred style of engagement.

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Comprehensive Course Materials

Students receive both printed and electronic course books covering all eight CISSP domains, along with MP3 audio files of complete course lectures. This multi-format approach caters to different learning preferences and allows for flexible review options.

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Limited Personalization

Unlike some adaptive learning platforms, SANS's CISSP course follows a standardized curriculum for all students. While this ensures consistency, it may not cater as directly to individual learning needs or knowledge gaps

Frequently Asked Questions

Do the courses require prerequisites?

Both Destination Certification and SANS Institute recommend that students have at least five years of work experience in two or more of the eight CISSP CBK domains to ensure they are adequately prepared for the advanced concepts covered in the CISSP training and to meet the requirements for the CISSP exam. However, neither course strictly enforces these prerequisites, allowing motivated individuals from various backgrounds to enroll.

Are the courses aligned with the current CISSP changes?

Yes, both Destination Certification and SANS Institute keep their course content updated to align with the latest CISSP exam changes, ensuring that students receive the most current and relevant information for effective exam preparation. DestCert's adaptive learning platform allows for rapid updates, while SANS regularly revises its course materials to reflect the most recent exam objectives.

What additional resources or benefits do these courses offer?

Both courses offer a variety of additional resources and benefits. Destination Certification includes tools like a flashcard app, practice question app, MindMap videos, a printed guidebook and workbook (for higher-tier plans), weekly group mentoring, personalized schedules, and access to an active community. SANS Institute provides MP3 audio files of lectures, printed and electronic course books, and practice questions for each domain.

DestCert vs. SANS Institute: Which Course Is for You?

Choosing the right CISSP training course depends on various factors, including your budget, learning style, schedule flexibility, and specific career goals. Both Destination Certification and SANS Institute offer high-quality CISSP preparation, but they cater to different needs and preferences.

If you prefer a variety of course formats and the option to pursue additional certifications, SANS Institute might be the better fit. They offer in-person, live online, and self-paced options, allowing you to choose the learning environment that suits you best.

However, if you're looking for a comprehensive, all-in-one solution that provides everything you need to pass the CISSP exam and enhance your cybersecurity skills, Destination Certification's CISSP MasterClass is the ideal choice.

We provide all the study materials you'll need, so there's no scrambling for extra resources. With interactive tools, flexible scheduling, and personalized support (including one-on-one mentoring in our higher-tier plans), DestCert equips you fully for the CISSP exam and beyond.

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