What is CISA and ISACA

CISA stands for Certified Information Systems Auditor, a globally recognized certification offered by ISACA (Information Systems Audit and Control Association). It is designed for professionals who audit, control, monitor, and assess information systems and technology. Earning the CISA demonstrates expertise in identifying risks, ensuring compliance, and implementing controls to safeguard an organization's information systems.

The CISA certification validates skills and knowledge in:

·       Performing information systems (IS) audits.

·       Ensuring effective IT governance and management.

·       Protecting information assets.

ISACA

ISACA plays a pivotal role in helping professionals and organizations ensure that technology is leveraged effectively while managing risks. Its certifications and frameworks are industry benchmarks and are widely recognized across multiple sectors, including finance, healthcare, government, and IT services.

Why to opt CISA?

1.Career Advancement

Global Recognition: CISA is globally acknowledged as a standard of excellence in IT auditing, governance, and security expertise. Accepted in over 180+ countries.

Expanded Opportunities: It paves the way for career paths in roles such as IT auditor, risk manager, compliance analyst, and cybersecurity consultant.

High Industry Demand: Organizations across sectors like finance, healthcare, technology, and government actively seek CISA-certified professionals to meet regulatory compliance and IT assurance needs.

2.Higher Earning Potential

Competitive Salaries: Professionals with a CISA certification often command higher earnings compared to their non-certified counterparts, thanks to their specialized skills and expertise.

Valuable Investment: The certification offers excellent cost-effectiveness, delivering significant career and financial advancements.

3. Professional Credibility

Industry Trust: CISA showcases your reliability and expertise in IT auditing and risk management.

Compliance and Assurance: It confirms your ability to identify vulnerabilities, implement effective controls, and ensure adherence to regulatory standards.

Employer Recognition: CISA is widely regarded by employers as a symbol of professionalism and dedication.

4. Competitive Edge

Distinct Advantage: In competitive job markets, CISA certification helps you stand out from non-certified candidates.

Leadership Readiness: It prepares you to confidently take on senior roles in governance, assurance, and risk management.

5.  Enhanced Knowledge and Skills

Specialized Expertise: CISA equips you with deep knowledge in IS audit, IT governance, risk management, and controls.

Comprehensive Skill Set: It spans critical areas such as auditing, system development, IT operations, and asset protection.

Global Standards: The certification aligns with international frameworks and industry best practices, ensuring relevance and applicability worldwide.

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for the CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor) certification, candidates must meet the following criteria:

1.  Exam Requirement

CISA Exam:

Candidates must pass the CISA exam, which tests knowledge across five domains. The passing score is 450 on the scale of 800

2. Educational Requirements

There are no specific educational requirements to sit for the CISA exam itself. Anyone interested in the certification, regardless of their academic background, can register for and take the exam. However, obtaining the CISA certification after passing the exam requires meeting work experience requirement.

3. Work Experience

Experience Requirement:

A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in information systems auditing, control, or security is required.

Experience must be gained within the last 10 years prior to applying for certification.

Waivers: ISACA allows certain experience to be waived or substituted. (Education waiver can be done for maximum of 3 years)

Education Experience Waiver -(Optional) Only 1 may be applied and documentation required

• 1-year waiver for an associate degree
• 2-year waiver for a bachelor’s, master’s or doctorate degree in any field of study
• 3-year waiver for a master’s degree in Information Systems or a related field 
• • Master Software Systems Engineering
  • Master Computer Science
  • Master Information Assurance and/or Auditing
  • Master Information Systems
  • Master Computer Engineering
  • Master Network Engineering or Systems
  • MBA with a concentration in Information Systems
  • Master Engineering Technology
  • MS Computer Science and Engineering
• 2-year waiver for CIMA – Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, full certification 
• 2-year waiver for ACCA member status from the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants 

4. Apply for certification by paying Application Processing fees of USD 50 along with the 5 years of work experience evidence

Exam Pattern

·       Type: Multiple-choice questions (MCQs).

·       Number of Questions: 150 questions.

·       Duration: 4 hours (240 minutes).

·       Scoring: Scaled score ranging from 200 to 800. A minimum of 450 is required to pass.

·       No Negative Marking

Exam Cost

·       For ISACA Member :  USD 575

·       For ISACA Non-Member : $760

Note : Once you register, you are eligible to take the exam anytime within a 12-month period from your registration date. However, if you do not take the exam within this one-year eligibility period, your payment will be forfeited.

Domain wise weightage

Domain 1: INFORMATION SYSTEMS AUDITING PROCESS (18%)

• Key Terminology, Principles, Phases, and Types of IS Audits
• Role of Internal Audit and Integrated Auditing
• Control Self-Assessment and Modern Auditing Approaches
• Risk-Based Audit Planning, Risk Assessment Techniques, and Audit Risk & Materiality
• Types of Controls, Testing, Sampling, and Evidence Collection Methods
• Computer-Assisted Audit Techniques (CAATs) and Artificial Intelligence in IS Audits
• Effective Reporting, Communication, and Quality Assurance in Audits

Domain 2: GOVERNANCE & MANAGEMENT OF IT (18%)

·       Compliance and Regulatory Frameworks

·       IT Governance, Strategy, and Organizational Structure

·       IT Policies, Standards, and Operational Practices

·       Enterprise Architecture and Risk Management

·       Privacy Management and Data Governance

·       IT Resource and Vendor Relationship Management

·       IT Performance Monitoring and Quality Assurance

Domain 3: INFORMATION SYSTEMS ACQUISITION, DEVELOPMENT & IMPLEMENTATION (12%)

·       Project Governance, Feasibility, and Methodologies

·       Control Design and System Development

·       System Testing, Configuration, and Release Management

·       Implementation, Migration, and Data Conversion

·       Post-Implementation Review and Evaluation

Domain 4: INFORMATION SYSTEMS OPERATIONS & BUSINESS RESILIENCE (26%)

·       IT Components, IT Asset Management, Systems Availability, Capacity Management, and Database Management

·       Job Scheduling, Production Process Automation, IT Change Management, Configuration, Patch Management, and Incident Management

·       System Interfaces, Shadow IT, and End-User Computing

·       IT Service Level Management, Business Impact Analysis, Operational Resilience, and Data Backup

·       Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery Plans

Domain 5: PROTECTION OF INFORMATION ASSETS (26%)

·       Information Asset Security Frameworks, Standards, and Guidelines, Physical and Environmental Controls

·       Identity and Access Management, Network and End-Point Security, Data Loss Prevention

·       Data Encryption, Public Key Infrastructure, and Cloud/Virtualized Environments

·       Mobile, Wireless, and Internet-of-Things (IoT) Devices

·       Security Awareness Training and Programs, Information System Attack Methods and Techniques

·       Security Testing, Monitoring Tools, and Techniques

·       Security Incident Response Management, Evidence Collection, and Forensics

How to Register for CISA Exam?

1. Create an ISACA Account:
2. • Go to the official ISACA website: www.isaca.org.
   • Create or log in to your account.
3. Register for the Exam:
4. • Pay the exam fee and register for the CISA exam.
5. Schedule the Exam:
6. • Once registered, you will receive an email from PSI with instructions to schedule your exam.
   • You can select a date, time, and testing method (in-person or online).
7. Locate a Testing Center:
8. • Use the PSI website to find a testing center near you, if opting for in-person testing.

Options to take the Exam

1. In-Person Testing

This option allows candidates to take the exam at an authorized PSI Testing Center, which is a physical location where exams are conducted under supervision.

Key Details:

• Testing Center Locations: PSI has testing centers worldwide. You can select a location convenient for you when scheduling your exam.
• Supervised Environment: The exam is proctored in a secure and controlled setting to ensure fairness and compliance with testing protocols.
• What to Bring:
• • A valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., passport, driver’s license).
  • Any additional documents specified in your confirmation email.
• Advantages:
• • Access to a distraction-free environment.
  • Technical support is readily available in case of issues with the testing equipment.
• Suitability: Ideal for candidates who prefer structured environments and may have limited access to reliable technology or internet at home.

2. Remote Online Proctoring

This option allows you to take the exam from the comfort of your home or any private location through online proctoring.

Key Details:

• Proctoring via Webcam: A live proctor monitors the exam session through your computer’s camera and microphone to ensure compliance with testing rules.
• Technology Requirements:
• • A computer with a stable internet connection.
  • A working webcam and microphone.
  • The latest version of a compatible browser (such as Chrome or Firefox).
  • Ensure your system meets the PSI technical requirements before the exam.
• Environment Requirements:
• • You must be in a quiet, private space with no interruptions.
  • The exam area should be clear of unauthorized materials (e.g., notes, books, or additional electronic devices).
• Advantages:
• • Flexibility to choose your preferred location.
  • No need to travel to a testing center, saving time and costs.
• Suitability: Best for candidates who have reliable internet, a distraction-free environment, and are comfortable with online testing.

Career Prospects

The job profiles a professional can enter with CISA credential are:

·       Internal Auditor

·       Auditor

·       IS analyst

·       IT audit manager

·       IT project manager

·       IT security officer

·       Cybersecurity expert

·       IT Consultant

·       IT risk manager

·       Compliance Manager

·       Governance, Risk and Compliance officer 

·       Chief Information Security Officer

How to Prepare for CISA?

1. Understand the Exam Domains – Focus on high-weight areas like “Protection of Information Assets.”

2. Use ISACA’s Review Manual – The official CISA Review Manual is the best resource.

3. Practice Questions – Attempt as many mock exams as possible.

4. Join Study Groups or Training – Helps in clarifying concepts and learning exam strategies.

5. Plan Your Study Schedule – Typically, 3–6 months of preparation is recommended.