Q and A CVP Solicitation.pdf

Questions & Answers Solicitation No. NIST-RFQ-22-7701053

Computer-Based Testing for the Cryptographic Validation Program

1. Regarding Performance Work Statement Task 4.1 Test Development (Base Period), item 1, is the Task to work with NIST subject matter experts to develop 200 new questions for the FIPS 140-3 exam to meet the requirement, or has NIST developed the 200 questions already?

NIST will develop and provide the 200 questions. It is the contractor’s responsibility to perform Tasks 4.1.1a – 4.1.1.e for the questions which will be provided by NIST.

2. Related to the question above, if Task 4.1 is to develop 200 new items for the FIPS 140-3 exam, can questions from the existing CVP exam be re-used or re-purposed for use on the FIPS 140-3 exam?

The Contractor is not required to develop the 200 questions. NIST will provide them.

Some of the questions NIST will provide may be re-used or re-purposed from a previous exam.

3. Regarding Performance Work Statement Task 4.1 Test Development, item 1, subparagraph d., determine a passing score, will live statistics be available for use in conducting the FIPS 140-3 exam standard setting?

Per Statement of Work Task 4.1.1e, NIST requires the Contractor to provide NIST with data regarding exam results so that NIST may assess post test-score patterns and/or issues. NIST will review the data provided by the Contractor and provide the Contractor with feedback which may necessitate changes to the passing score. Live statistics are not expected to be available for use.