Formal Appeals Policy

An appeal is a formal written request to have a certification decision reconsidered. It applies to adverse decisions made by the Certification Manager or Certification Team regarding an individual's certification — including failed examinations, denied applications, suspensions, or withdrawals.

CyberDefenders is committed to a fair and unbiased appeals process. Submitting, reviewing, or deciding on an appeal will not result in unfair treatment or discrimination. All appeals are handled objectively, and everyone who submits an appeal will be treated equally and without bias.

Appeals must be submitted in writing to the Appeals & Complaints Committee at [email protected] within 30 days of receiving the decision. The submission must clearly state what is being appealed and why and should include any relevant supporting materials. Appeals received outside the 30-day window will not be accepted.

The Appeals & Complaints Committee will review the appeal within 45 days of its submission. Any Committee member with a conflict of interest will not participate in the review. The Committee will base its decision solely on information available at the time the original decision was made. The final decision will be communicated in writing to the appellant and the Certification Manager within 30 days of the review. Decisions are final.

If an appeal is approved and the decision affects the eligibility or results of other candidates, a full review will automatically be conducted for all potentially affected individuals. The Certification Manager will notify affected candidates of the review and final decision within 60 days.

An appeal is a formal written request to have a certification decision reconsidered. This applies to adverse decisions made by the Certification Manager or the Certification Team regarding an individual's certification — including failed examinations, denied applications, suspensions, or withdrawals.