CSAvsCIS-CSM
Compare ServiceNow Certified System Administrator and Certified Implementation Specialist - Customer Service Management certifications to find the right path for your career.
CSA
entryCertified System Administrator
The ServiceNow Certified System Administrator (CSA) certification validates your ability to configure, implement, and maintain ServiceNow instances. This entry-level certification is the foundation for all other ServiceNow certifications.
CIS-CSM
professionalCertified Implementation Specialist - Customer Service Management
The CIS-CSM certification validates your expertise in implementing ServiceNow Customer Service Management solutions, including case management, customer portals, and customer service workflows.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Compare exam details, costs, and requirements.
| Comparison | CSA | CIS-CSM |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Questions | 60 | 60 |
| Duration | 90 minutes | 90 minutes |
| Cut Score | Not published | Not published |
| Exam Cost | $300 | $450 |
| Level | Entry | Professional |
| Format | Multiple choice and multiple select | Multiple choice and multiple select |
| Blueprint Updated | January 2026 | November 2025 |
| Prerequisites | 6-12 months hands-on ServiceNow experience, ServiceNow Administration Fundamentals course (recommended, not required), Access to a Personal Developer Instance (PDI) | ServiceNow CSA certification (recommended), Customer Service Management implementation experience, Understanding of customer service best practices |
Which Should You Choose?
Start with CSA if you're new to ServiceNow. It provides the foundational knowledge needed before pursuing CIS-CSM.
Choose CSA if:
- •You work primarily with foundation functions
- •Your role requires certified system administrator expertise
- •You want to demonstrate entry-level ServiceNow skills
Choose CIS-CSM if:
- •You work primarily with customer service functions
- •Your role requires certified implementation specialist - customer service management expertise
- •You want to demonstrate professional-level ServiceNow skills
Ready to Start Preparing?
Try our free practice questions to see which certification fits your current knowledge.