PreGISP Certification: A Smart First Step for Emerging GIS Professionals
Whether you're a GIS student, a recent graduate, or just starting your journey in geospatial technology, building professional credibility early is key. You’ve likely heard of the GISP® (Geographic Information Systems Professional) certification. But what if you're not quite ready for the full credential yet? That’s where the PreGISP Certification comes in. Becoming a certified Emerging GIS Professional or GISP-E® is a valuable step you can take in building professional credibility early. Becoming a GISP-E® requires two steps:
- Successfully pass the PreGISP Exam, a powerful new tool to boost your confidence and direction in the field of Geographic Information Systems
- Agree to abide by a Geospatial Code of Ethics as a professional. By heeding this code, GIS professionals will help to preserve and enhance public trust in the discipline.
What Is the PreGISP Certification?
The PreGISP certification or GISP-E® is the Credential for the Emerging GIS Professional. The GIS Certification Institute (GISCI) has launched PreGISP program as a pathway for emerging leaders in the GIS field to start on the path to the GISP credential. The PreGISP will be a short-term credential that can only be earned once and is a precursor to a GISP. The PreGISP will expire in three years and cannot be renewed. Candidates that earn the credential may use post-nominal ‘GISP-E’ after their name to signify their accomplishment as an Emerging GIS Professional.
Instead of requiring four years of experience and a full portfolio, the PreGISP is open to recent college graduates, making it ideal for:
- Undergraduate and graduate GIS students
- Recent graduates preparing for the job market
- Career changers entering the geospatial field
- Early career professionals planning long-term growth
What is the PreGISP Exam?
The PreGISP Exam is a post-graduate version of the official GISP Exam, administered by the GIS Certification Institute (GISCI). While the full GISP® credential requires four years of experience, education, and contributions to the profession, the PreGISP Exam draws from the learning outcomes of GIS&T courses and provides a comprehensive assessment that aligns with the educational experiences of graduates.
Think of it as an opportunity to assess your knowledge, identify gaps, and understand the expectations of professional GIS certification.
Why Take the PreGISP Exam?
1. Assess and Benchmark Your Skills
The PreGISP exam covers critical areas like:
- Geospatial Data Concepts
- Cartographic and Visualization Techniques
- Analytical Methods and Geospatial Analysis
- Data Management and Modeling
- Remote Sensing
Taking the exam gives you a diagnostic view of where your strengths lie—and where you may want to focus on additional study or practical experience.
2. Plan Your Professional Development
GISCI’s full GISP® certification requires experience, education, and contributions to the profession. The PreGISP certification helps you:
- Understand what's expected in the full GISP® process
- Begin tracking your work, training, and volunteer efforts now
- Identify gaps in experience that you can start to address early
It acts as a roadmap for your career growth in the GIS profession.
3. Strengthen Your Resume and Interviews
Becoming a GISP-E® demonstrates initiative, self-awareness, and a commitment to professionalism. It shows potential employers that you’re not just technically capable: you’re thinking strategically about your long-term place in the field.
In interviews, it gives you a clear edge when discussing your knowledge of GIS concepts, ethics, and industry standards.
4. Gain Confidence and Direction
Whether you’re still in school or applying for your first job, it can be overwhelming to figure out where you stand. The PreGISP program gives you confidence and helps you take control of your GIS learning journey.
How to Register for the PreGISP Exam
- Visit the official GISCI website to register for the exam. Exams are offered in alignment with semesters and offered in April and November.
- The PreGISP Exam is proctored online through Pearson VUE testing services.
- Expect a small exam fee, but no portfolio or other eligibility requirements.
Pro Tip: Pair your exam prep with the UCGIS GIS&T Body of Knowledge or the Esri learning resources for a well-rounded study experience.
Final Thoughts: Invest in Your Future Now
The PreGISP Certification isn’t just a practice test—it’s a career development milestone. For students and new professionals, it bridges the gap between academic learning and professional certification. It helps you think like a GISP® before you officially become one.
If you're serious about building a lasting GIS career, the PreGISP Certification is a smart, strategic place to start.
About GISCI
The GIS Certification Institute (GISCI) is a nonprofit 501(c)6 organization incorporated in 2002. GISCI promotes the advancement of proficient GIS professionals through its international GISP® (Certified GIS Professional) and GISP-E® (Emerging GIS Professional) certification programs. The Institute fosters rigorous professional and ethical standards, community engagement, and professional mentoring within the GIS industry.
