What is CISA?
CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor) is a globally recognized certification offered by ISACA that validates a professional’s expertise in auditing, controlling, monitoring, and assessing information systems. It is specifically designed for individuals responsible for ensuring that an organization’s IT and business systems are secure, reliable, and compliant with regulations.
In short, CISA demonstrates that you have the knowledge and experience to assess an organization’s information systems and recommend improvements that reduce risk and ensure efficiency.
Who should take this exam
The CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor) certification is ideal for professionals in roles such as:
- IT Auditor
- Information Security Analyst
- Compliance Officer
- Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) Consultant
- Audit Manager
CISA is designed for individuals with:
- Experience in evaluating IT processes, identifying risks, and implementing controls.
- At least five years of professional experience in information systems auditing, control, assurance, or security.
Prerequisites and recommendations
- Pass the CISA exam.
- Apply for certification within five years after passing the exam.
- Have five or more years of professional information systems auditing, control, or security work experience.
Practical Recommendations
- At least two years of hands-on experience in IT auditing or related fields.
- Familiarity with IT governance frameworks (e.g., COBIT, COSO).
- Understanding of risk management principles and internal controls.
- Experience with audit methodologies and compliance standards.
- Prior certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or ISACA’s CRISC can be beneficial.
Exam objectives and domains
The CISA exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering five domains:
- Information Systems Auditing Process – 21%
- Governance and Management of IT – 16%
- Information Systems Acquisition, Development, and Implementation – 16%
- Information Systems Operations and Business Resilience – 16%
- Protection of Information Assets – 31%
Objective details by domain
Domain 1: Information Systems Auditing Process
- Plan and conduct audits.
- Collect and analyze audit evidence.
- Communicate audit results.
- Follow-up on audit findings.
Domain 2: Governance and Management of IT
- Evaluate IT governance structures.
- Assess IT management practices.
- Ensure alignment with organizational objectives.
Domain 3: Information Systems Acquisition, Development, and Implementation
- Assess project management practices.
- Evaluate system development life cycle.
- Ensure compliance with standards and regulations.
Domain 4: Information Systems Operations and Business Resilience
- Assess operational controls.
- Evaluate business continuity plans.
- Ensure service delivery meets business requirements.
Domain 5: Protection of Information Assets
- Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
- Evaluate information security policies.
- Assess data protection measures.
What changed in this version
Starting from August 1, 2024, ISACA updated the CISA job practice areas to reflect new industry standards. All five domains were adjusted, though the titles remained the same. These changes ensure that the certification aligns with current practices and emerging trends in information systems auditing.
Registration and scheduling
- Registration: Continuous; register anytime.
- Scheduling: Appointments can be made as early as 48 hours after payment.
- Delivery: Computer-based exams at authorized PSI testing centers or remotely proctored.
Pricing and vouchers
- ISACA Members: $575
- Non-Members: $760
- Membership Fee: $145 annually, which includes benefits like discounted exam fees and access to study materials.
Policies you should know
- Passing Score: Scaled score of 450 or higher (out of 800).
- Result Delivery: Preliminary results available immediately; official scores emailed and available online within 10 business days.
- Score Reporting: Detailed score reports are provided, breaking down performance by domain.
Scoring and results
- Total Questions: 150 multiple-choice questions.
- Scoring Scale: 200–800 points.
- Passing Score: 450 or higher (scaled score).
- Partial Credit: Not applicable, each question is scored as correct or incorrect.
Result Timing:
- Preliminary results are available immediately after completing the exam (for computer-based tests).
- Official score reports are sent by email and accessible online within 10 business days.
Score Report Details:
- Helps identify strengths and weaknesses for future development or re-examination.
Exam day and test experience
- Proctoring Options: On-site at testing centers or online proctoring.
- Check-In: Requires valid ID and biometric verification.
- Allowed Items: Only authorized materials; personal items are not permitted.
- Breaks: No scheduled breaks during the exam.
- Interface Tips: Familiarize with the exam interface beforehand to manage time effectively.
- Time Management: Allocate approximately 1.6 minutes per question.
Study plan and resources
For Beginners (12 Weeks)
- Weeks 1–4: Study Domain 1 and 2; complete practice questions.
- Weeks 5–8: Study Domain 3 and 4; review key concepts.
- Weeks 9–10: Study Domain 5; focus on areas of weakness.
- Weeks 11–12: Take full-length practice exams; review results.
For Experienced Candidates (8 Weeks)
- Weeks 1–2: Review all domains; identify areas for improvement.
- Weeks 3–6: Focus on weak areas; take practice exams.
- Weeks 7–8: Review practice exam results; refine test-taking strategies.
Certification validity and renewal
Validity: CISA certification is valid for three years.
Renewal Requirements:
- Pay annual maintenance fees: $45 for members, $85 for non-members
- Earn 20 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits annually.
- Accumulate a total of 120 CPE credits over three years.
Career outcomes
Common Job Titles: IT Auditor, Audit Manager, GRC Consultant, Information Security Analyst.
Salary Range:
- Senior-Level: $130,000–$150,000+ annually
- Entry-Level: $65,000–$90,000 annually.
- Mid-Level: $90,000–$130,000 annually.
| Job Role | Description | Typical Experience Level |
|---|---|---|
| IT Auditor | Conducts audits of IT systems, evaluates controls, and ensures compliance. | 2–5 years in IT auditing or related field |
| Audit Manager | Leads audit teams, manages projects, and reports findings to senior management. | 5–10 years, including auditing experience |
| Information Security Analyst | Monitors and protects organization’s IT systems from security threats. | 3–7 years in IT security or IT operations |
| GRC (Governance, Risk & Compliance) Consultant | Advises organizations on IT governance, risk management, and compliance frameworks. | 3–8 years in IT risk, compliance, or audit |
| Compliance Officer | Ensures organization adheres to internal policies and regulatory requirements. | 3–7 years in compliance or IT auditing |
| IT Risk Analyst | Identifies, assesses, and mitigates IT-related risks across systems. | 2–5 years in risk management or IT auditing |
| Information Systems Auditor | Specializes in evaluating system processes, controls, and performance. | 3–7 years in IT auditing or information systems |
Related or next-step certifications
- CRISC: Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control.
- CISM: Certified Information Security Manager.
- CISSP: Certified Information Systems Security Professional.
How this exam compares to similar certifications
CISA vs. CISSP:
- Audience: CISA is tailored for auditors; CISSP is suited for security professionals.
- Scope: CISA focuses on auditing and control; CISSP covers broader security topics.
- Difficulty: CISSP is generally considered more challenging due to its broader scope.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the CISA exam difficult?
The CISA exam is considered challenging, with only about 50% of test-takers passing on their first attempt.
Can I take the CISA exam without prior experience?
While you can sit for the exam without prior experience, you must have at least five years of professional experience in information systems auditing, control, or security to obtain the certification.
How long does it take to prepare for the CISA exam?
Preparation time varies, but a structured study plan of 8–12 weeks is recommended, depending on your prior knowledge and experience.
How often is the CISA exam offered?
The CISA exam is offered three times a year: June, September, and December.
