The CIPP-E (Certified Information Privacy Professional/Europe) is a famous privacy certification offered by the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP). This credential displays that you understand European data protection laws, specially the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
The CIPP-E helps privacy experts show their expertise in data protection laws in the European Union (EU). This includes considerate legal rules, handling personal information, and applying privacy principles in real life. CIPP-E is reliable by companies, law firms and regulators all over the world.
If you work with private data from EU citizens or handle GDPR compliance, the CIPP-E certification can help you do your job better and stay up to date with privacy best practices.
How CIPP-E Differs from Other IAPP Certifications (CIPP/US, CIPP/C, CIPP/A)
The IAPP offers several CIPP tracks each focusing on a different region:
- CIPP/US: Focuses on United States privacy laws, such as CCPA, HIPAA and FTC rules.
- CIPP/C: Covers Canadian privacy laws, including PIPEDA and provincial rules.
- CIPP/A: Focuses on Asia-Pacific laws, like those in Singapore, Hong Kong and Australia.
- CIPP/E: Centers on European privacy laws, especially GDPR.
Who Should Pursue the CIPP-E Credential?
The CIPP-E certification is ideal for professionals who:
- Work in privacy, compliance, or data protection roles.
- Deal with GDPR requirements or manage European customer data.
- Want to show expertise in European privacy laws.
- Are lawyers, data protection officers (DPOs), consultants, or IT professionals.
Career Advantages of Being CIPP-E Certified
Being CIPP-E certified shows you are serious about privacy and data protection. Here are some benefits:
- Higher salary: Certified professionals often earn more than non-certified peers.
- Global recognition: CIPP-E is known and respected worldwide.
- Better job opportunities: Employers often require or prefer IAPP certifications.
- Regulatory compliance: You can help your company avoid costly GDPR fines.
- Leadership roles: Certification can lead to roles like Chief Privacy Officer, or Privacy Consultant.
CIPP-E Exam Structure and Content
The CIPP-E exam tests your considerate of European data privacy laws. The test is computer-based and consists of 90 multiple-choice questions. You must end the exam in 150 minutes (2.5 hours).
Key topics covered:
- History of European Data Protection
- European Union Institutions
- General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
- Data Subjects’ Rights
- Legal Bases for Processing
- Data Controllers and Processors
- Supervisory Authorities
- Cross-border Data Transfers
- Compliance and Enforcement
How the CIPP-E Exam Tests Legal and Operational Knowledge
The exam doesn’t just test your memory. It checks if you can apply legal rules in real-life situations. For example, you might get a scenario where a company is moving data outside the EU. You’ll need to know which maintains are required under the GDPR and what steps the company should take to remain compliant.
The exam includes:
- Definition-based questions (e.g., what is a Data Controller?)
- Scenario-based questions (e.g., how should a DPO respond to a data breach?)
- Legal reasoning questions that test how well you can analyze rules.
How to Prepare for the CIPP-E Exam
To pass the CIPP-E examination you want a strong knowledge of GDPR and how it applies in real-world conditions. Here are some guidance suggestions:
- Study the IAPP CIPP-E Body of Knowledge: This is your official guide.
- Take IAPP-approved training courses: These provide expert instruction.
- Use practice exams: They help you get used to the question format.
- Read the full text of the GDPR: Understanding the actual law is essential.
- Join IAPP forums or study groups: Learn from others who have passed.
CIPP-E vs CIPM: What’s the Difference?
While CIPP-E specializes in privacy law, the CIPM (Certified Information Privacy Manager) teaches you a way to control a privacy program.
| Feature | CIPP-E | CIPM |
| Focus | GDPR and legal knowledge | Privacy program management |
| Ideal for | Legal, compliance professionals | Managers, privacy officers |
| Exam Content | Legal terms, GDPR rights | Governance, privacy operations |
If you want to understand laws, start with CIPP-E. If you want to build or lead a privacy team, CIPM may be better. Many professionals choose to earn both certifications for a well-rounded skill set.
CIPP-E vs ISO/IEC 27701: Which One Should You Choose?
ISO/IEC 27701 is an international standard for Privacy Information Management Systems (PIMS). It adds privacy controls to ISO 27001 (information security).
Here’s how they compare:
| Feature | CIPP-E | ISO/IEC 27701 |
| Type | Certification from IAPP | ISO standard |
| Focus | GDPR legal framework | Privacy management system controls |
| Use Case | Proving legal understanding | Implementing privacy in systems |
| Recognition | Global, with focus on the EU | Global, IT-focused |
Choose CIPP-E if your job involves legal compliance or policy-making. Choose ISO 27701 if you’re responsible for IT systems or technical privacy controls. Some professionals combine both for full legal + technical coverage.
Common and Unique Attributes of the CIPP-E Certification
Let’s look at what makes CIPP-E common with and different from other certifications:
Common Traits (Across IAPP Certifications):
- Based on real-world privacy practices.
- Focus on laws and regulations.
- Recognized by employers and governments.
- Offered by the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP).
- Include multiple-choice exams.
Unique Attributes of CIPP-E:
- Centered on the GDPR the world’s most detailed privacy law.
- Includes European data protection history.
- Requires knowledge of EU institutions and regulatory bodies.
- Recognized by Data Protection Authorities (DPAs) across Europe.
- Helps fulfill the role of Data Protection Officer (DPO) under GDPR.
Frequently Asked Questions About CIPP/E Certification
What Is the CIPP/E Certification?
The CIPP/E is a globally recognized certification that validates your knowledge of European data privacy laws, especially the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
Is the CIPP/E Exam Difficult?
The CIPP/E exam can be challenging, especially for those new to privacy law, but with proper study and preparation, it’s achievable.
How Long Does It Take to Prepare for the CIPP/E Exam?
Most candidates spend 4 to 8 weeks studying, depending on their familiarity with data protection and GDPR concepts.
What Is the Passing Score for the CIPP/E Exam?
To pass the CIPP/E exam, you need a score of around 300 out of 500, though IAPP does not disclose the exact scoring method.
Is the CIPP/E Certification Only for Lawyers?
No, the CIPP/E is suitable for privacy professionals, compliance officers, IT experts, and DPOs not just lawyers.