Cybersecurity is no longer a choice—it’s a requirement for businesses in the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). As organizations prepare for CMMC compliance, one key component that often causes confusion is the SPRS score. This score is not only tied to your NIST 800-171 compliance but also plays a vital role in winning and maintaining Department of Defense (DOD) contracts.
This blog covers everything you need to know about SPRS score calculation, how it connects to CMMC readiness, and actionable ways to improve it.
What Is an SPRS Score?
The Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS) is a DOD database used to track contractor performance. One crucial input is the NIST 800-171 self-assessment score, which reflects your organization’s current cybersecurity posture.
The SPRS score ranges from -203 to 110, based on how many of the 110 security controls defined in NIST SP 800-171 your organization has implemented. Each unmet control reduces your score, and your submitted score directly affects your eligibility for DFARS-compliant contracts.
How It Impacts CMMC Readiness
You’re SPRS score is not just a number—it’s a compliance signal. While CMMC compliance is being phased in, your SPRS score acts as a temporary compliance indicator during procurement reviews. Here’s how it connects to CMMC:
- A higher SPRS score indicates readiness for CMMC Level 2, which requires full NIST 800-171 implementation.
- A low SPRS score could disqualify you from certain DOD procurement opportunities, even before CMMC audits begin.
- The DFARS interim rule (252.204-7019 & 7020) mandates submission of your SPRS score as part of the acquisition process.
In other words, you’re SPRS score can determine contract eligibility and competitiveness long before a CMMC certification audit is scheduled.
Mapping NIST 800-171 to Your Score
Every organization aiming for CMMC Level 2 must fully implement NIST 800-171. This framework includes 110 controls spread across 14 families, such as:
- Access Control
- Incident Response
- Media Protection
- System & Information Integrity
Each control not implemented deducts points from your score. Some controls weigh more heavily than others—high-priority items can reduce your score by up to 5 points each.
To calculate your score:
- Begin with 110 (perfect implementation).
- Subtract the designated point value for every control not fully met.
- Document your Plan of Action & Milestones (POA&M) for controls not yet implemented.
- Submit the score to SPRS via PIEE (Procurement Integrated Enterprise Environment).
How to Improve a Low Score
If your score is low, don’t panic—many companies are in the same situation. What matters is having a plan for improvement. Here’s how you can boost your compliance scoring system:
1. Conduct a Detailed Gap Assessment
Map existing practices to NIST 800-171 and identify missing or incomplete controls.
2. Implement High-Value Controls First
Focus on controls that carry the most weight in the scoring system—such as Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), data encryption, and audit logging.
3. Maintain Updated Documentation
Document how controls are implemented. Having evidence ready for self-assessment reporting or audits is critical.
4. Train Your Staff
Human error is one of the top cybersecurity risks. Ensure employees understand basic cyber hygiene and company policies.
5. Work with a CMMC Consultant
A reliable partner can help you achieve rapid compliance and readiness for DFARS assessments and CMMC audits.
Tools and Resources for Contractors
Several tools can make compliance easier:
- NIST 800-171A Assessment Guide – Helps with scoring and documentation.
- Project Spectrum & SPRS Portal – Government-supported resources for score submission and security updates.
- CMMCITAR Services – Our compliance experts at CMMCITAR provide gap analysis, remediation plans, and full compliance support for CMMC & DFARS.
Final Thoughts
Your SPRS score is more than a number—it’s a reflection of your readiness, responsibility, and reputation in the defense industry. Investing time in accurate self-assessment reporting and aligning with NIST 800-171 compliance is the most effective way to secure your position in the DOD supply chain.
Whether you’re looking to win new contracts or prepare for a future CMMC audit, understanding and improving your SPRS score is the first step.