Certified Information Systems Auditor Certification 2025
CISA 2025 is a globally renowned credential in information systems auditing, control, assurance and security. Its stringent academic and professional requirements include a minimum work experience of five years. It also includes a knowledge of five domains and adherence to ISACA’s code of ethics and information systems auditing standards.
A career as a certified information systems auditor offers great opportunities for variety and growth. Read this article to learn more about the cost, benefits and value of pursuing this certification.
Free CISA Certification Practice Test Online
CISA Certification Cost
CISA certification is a valuable qualification for IT auditors and security professionals. However, obtaining this credential requires significant investment in both time and money. This guide will examine the cost of obtaining a CISA, and help you decide whether it is worth the effort.
Applicants must first meet the eligibility requirements for the exam, which include a bachelor’s degree and five years of professional experience in auditing, IT control, or information security. They must also pass the exam, which lasts four hours and has 150 multiple-choice questions. Applicants can prepare by taking a practice quiz or using an ISACA-approved review manual.
Once certified, candidates must adhere to ISACA’s Code of Ethics and Information Systems Auditing Standards. They must also maintain the CISA certification by acquiring 20 CPE credits each year and 120 CPE credits over a three-year period. Applicants can apply online through ISACA’s website. The process includes a $50 application fee and an upfront examination registration fee. Candidates can also choose to become ISACA members to pay discounted exam fees and receive additional benefits.
CISA Certification Requirements
CISA certification is an internationally renowned credential that validates your skills and knowledge in auditing computer information systems. This is a highly sought-after qualification and employers give priority to applicants with this certification. You must pass the exam and have at least five years of professional experience in information systems auditing, control, or security. You must also agree to adhere to ISACA’s Code of Ethics and Information Systems Auditing Standards and commit to continuing professional education.
You must document every aspect of your findings in reports, so it is important to have excellent writing skills. You should also be able to create and edit spreadsheets and presentations. You can prepare for the CISA exam by taking courses and workshops sponsored by ISACA or third-party vendors. These classes will help you pass the test and develop your career in information technology.
You can also earn CPE credits by attending ISACA conferences, chapter programs, workshops, seminars, and professional meetings. Other activities that qualify for CPE include university courses, structured self-study courses, and in-house training.
CISA Training
If you want to become a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), it is important that you take training courses that prepare you for the exam. These training courses are generally delivered by a professional trainer and use a variety of learning methods to keep the trainees engaged. This includes audio-visual presentations and group activities. The course will also cover how to apply the knowledge gained through the CISA certification to real-world situations.
The training for the CISA exam focuses on various aspects of computer information system (CIS) audits. The course covers topics such as backup and disaster recovery procedures, informational control practices, and risk-based strategy. It also covers the process of preparing for an audit, conducting the audit, and reporting the results.
The CISA exam lasts four hours and consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. The passing score is 450. You must have five years of professional experience in IT auditing, control or security to qualify for the certification. However, ISACA allows substitutions and waivers for work experience. You can substitute a full-time job for one year of the required experience, and 60 to 120 university semester credit hours can replace another year of work.
CISA Certification Salary
If you have a job in information security, obtaining your CISA certification can help you earn a higher salary. This credential can also boost your resume, especially if you work in a large company. In addition, you can benefit from a number of networking opportunities.
The career prospects of CISAs are strong, as they’re in high demand due to the growing risk of cyber attacks and data breaches. Moreover, you can expect to get promoted more quickly than other IT professionals with similar qualifications.
CISAs are responsible for planning, scoping, executing and reporting on audit engagements. They are also expected to assess risks and provide recommendations based on their findings. These tasks can be complex, but the rewards can be significant. CISAs can earn up to $149,000 per year, depending on their employer and location.
CISA Careers
CISA is one of the most sought-after IT certifications. It shows employers that you have the knowledge and skills to audit, control, monitor, and assess information systems. A CISA certification also demonstrates that they can use a risk-based approach to review IT and business operations. To qualify, you must pass the CISA exam and meet education and work experience requirements. In addition, you must agree to adhere to ISACA’s Code of Ethics and Continuing Professional Education Policy.
Whether you want to become a full-time IT auditor or an independent consultant, you can start your career with the CISA credential. It is a valuable professional certification that provides a steady stream of job opportunities in a wide range of industries. You can find CISA jobs in banks, private enterprises, and government organizations.
CISA jobs pay well and offer steep career advancement. This makes the profession attractive to people who want to work on a flexible schedule. In addition, CISA is a valuable asset for any organization that wants to improve its security measures.
CISA vs CISSP
The two primary certifications in the field of IT security are CISA and CISSP. Both are a great start to a career in the industry, but they have distinct differences. The CISSP certification is more geared towards IT security professionals and their managers, and it is a must-have for anyone who wants to boost their chances of getting a job or being promoted within their current organization. It covers a wider range of topics than the CISA, and it also requires more experience in the field.
The CISA is more focused on auditing IT systems and ensuring that organizations are following best practices in their data governance. It is a good choice for professionals who work in IT auditing and forensics. In addition, the CISA is much cheaper than the CISSP. But before you make the decision to pursue either of these credentials, it is important to consider your long-term goals and current job duties. This will help you determine which path is the best fit for you. Also, consider the cost and difficulty of these exams when making your decision.
CISA Exam Questions
The CISA exam is a difficult one, and many people fail the first time. However, the good news is that there are ways to increase your chances of passing the exam on the first try. For starters, you should understand the exam questions and answers before attempting them. The questions are not simple yes or no questions, and they often require that you read a scenario and choose an appropriate response.
Another important thing to keep in mind is that your CISA score is not based on percentages. Instead, it is a scaled score that converts your raw test score to a standard scale. This is intended to ensure that all exam results are comparable. The scale ranges from 200 to 800, and a score of 800 represents a perfect score.
You can find out your score by visiting the ISACA website. In addition, you can request a rescore if you are unsure of the validity of your score. However, the rescore will cost you $75, and you must submit your request within 30 days of receiving your score.
CISA Practice Exam
The CISA exam is available in both PDF and testing engine format. The PDF version is readable on any PC, while the testing engine can be installed on a MAC. The CISA practice exam can help you get familiar with the format of the actual exam and prepare yourself to pass it.
The exam will test your knowledge of information security concepts, auditing standards, and practices. It will also cover topics related to IT governance and risk management. This certification can help you gain valuable skills in ensuring the security of your organization’s IT infrastructure.
The exam requires a minimum of five years of work experience in the areas of information systems auditing, control, and security. However, there are several work-experience substitutions and waivers that you can apply for. In addition, you should be prepared to spend time studying and preparing for the exam. To make the most of your preparation, it is recommended that you use official study materials from ISACA. These include the CISA Review Manual and the CISA Review Questions, Answers, and Explanations Database. You should also take practice exams to determine your strengths and weaknesses.
CISA Questions and Answers
What does CISA stand for?
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA).
What is CISA certification?
The Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) is a global standard for testing an IT auditor’s knowledge, expertise, and skill in analyzing vulnerabilities and implementing IT controls in a corporate context.
How to get CISA certification?
The CISA exam is four hours long and contains 150 multiple-choice questions. It requires a score of at least 450 to pass and can be taken in person or online with a remote proctor. There are five sections of the exam: Information Systems Auditing Process, Governance and Management of IT, Information System Acquisition, Development and Implementation, Information Systems Operations and Business Resilience, and Protection of Information Assets. It is possible to retake the exam if you score under 450 points. The CISA certification requires at least five years of work experience in a job related to IT auditing, control, or security. it is possible to substitute education experience in place of some work experience, but it still requires at least two years of work experience. To apply for certification, applicants must pay a one-time, nonrefundable $50 application processing fee and an agreement to adhere to the ISACA’s Code of Professional Ethics and the ISACA Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Policy. Additionally, candidates must complete and report at least 20 hours of CPE experience every year and 120 hours over three years.
When was CISA created?
Since its inception in 1978, the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification given by ISACA® has served as the industry benchmark for excellence among professionals who audit, control, and secure information systems (IS).
How hard is the CISA exam?
The difficulty of an examination is always relative. What is challenging for one individual may not be challenging for another, but most would agree that it is not as challenging as the Bar or CPA exam. However, it has become increasingly challenging over time to stay up with the industry’s evolving standards. We wish to provide you with further information on the exam’s questions so that you may determine for yourself how challenging it may be.
Is the CISA exam difficult?
As a result of this, only 50% of test takers pass the CISA exam, making it a challenging exam. For those who are taking their first test, this number is significantly smaller.
How long to study for CISA?
A four-hour test with 150 multiple-choice questions makes up the CISA exam.
Which is better CISA or CISM?
Most CISM applicants work in executive positions like Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), Chief Information Officer (CIO), Chief Technology Officer (CTO), or Chief Executive Officer, which are typically held by higher-level employees than CISA holders (CEO).
How many CISA certified in the world?
There are fewer than 80,000 CISA-certified individuals.
How many questions are on the CISA exam?
As previously stated, the CISA exam consists of 150 questions. 2016 saw a reduction from 200 to 150 questions on examinations. You have four hours to answer all of these questions, which is often more than enough time for anyone to finish the entire exam. Your raw score is translated to a 200-to-800-point scale. To pass, you must have a CISA score of at least 450.
How much CISA exam cost?
CISA examination fees are US$760 for non-ISACA members and US$575 for ISACA members.
How to apply for CISA?
Follow these procedures to apply for the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification:
- Examine the eligibility requirements: Ensure that you satisfy the CISA certification’s educational and professional experience requirements, which are established by ISACA.
- Get ready for the exam by familiarizing yourself with the subject matter, reading the study guides, and considering taking training classes or utilizing online resources.
- Sign up for the test: Complete the ISACA internet registration process and pay the needed fees
- Plan the exam: Based on the available dates and locations, select the most convenient option.
- Prepare for the exam: Set aside time to review the exam’s subject matter using study manuals and sample tests.
- Take the exam: Show up at the specified testing location, adhere to the guidelines, and finish the CISA exam
- Await exam results: Watch for the email from ISACA informing you of your exam results.
- Apply for certification: Submit the necessary paperwork, along with verification of your education, professional experience, adherence to ethics standards, and CPE requirements.
- To maintain your CISA certification, you must continue to meet the CPE requirements and adhere to the Code of Professional Ethics.
How to get CISA work experience?
Follow these methods to earn work experience for the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification:
- Obtain a position in auditing, controlling, or securing information systems.
- Actively participate in information systems auditing-related duties and projects to develop experience.
- Look for varied jobs that expose you to many facets of the industry.
- Work together with seasoned professionals to benefit from their knowledge.
- Keep a record of your employment history, including responsibilities, projects, and learned skills.
- Meet the CISA work experience criteria, which usually calls for a minimum of five years of industry-related experience.
- Submit the required papers, including information about your employment history, to prove your eligibility for the CISA certification.
How to pass CISA?
The most crucial information is to read “CISA review questions, answers, and explanation” as well as the IS audit standards and guidelines. You should also make notes of your concepts. Before taking the test, give yourself at least 3 to 4 months to prepare. Use supplemental materials to assist you understand certain subjects. The two most crucial components for passing CISA are reading the review questions manual offered by ISACA and becoming familiar with the fundamental ideas that will be examined on the actual exam. It’s crucial to pay attention to the notes in the review manual and to mentally picture each subject in order to accomplish this.
How to renew CISA certification?
The following requirements must be met to renew your CISA certification.
- To fulfill this requirement, you must obtain and report 20 CPEs each year.
- You must obtain and report 120 CPEs for your three-year cycle.
- You will be subject to yearly maintenance fees or charges; these may vary and may be modified.
How to schedule CISA exam?
Setting up your CISA exam date:
- PSI Exams, a corporation, organizes all in-person testing. You can locate testing facilities close to you by visiting the PSI Exams website.
- On the other hand, if you’d rather take advantage of online proctoring from the comfort of your home or place of employment, you can book your exam date from your online ISACA profile.
Is CISA certification worth it?
Depending on your career goals. This certification is for you if you wish to pursue a high-paying profession in the IT business. The CISA certification is highly recommended by a large number of industry professionals since it paves the way for various new job pathways and chances in the early stages of your career. Sixty-eight percent of firms, according to Accenture, are confident that their cybersecurity threats are increasing. This means that many more employment possibilities will be generated, making this a stable career option for you.
What are the requirements for CISA certification?
In addition to passing the CISA exam, candidates must have at least five years of experience in an IS/IT audit, control, assurance, or security position. Additionally, they must agree to abide by a professional code of ethics. Waivers based on experience are permitted for a maximum of three years.
How to become a certified information systems auditor?
For certification as a CISA, you must pass an exam administered by the ISACA, satisfy application requirements, and acquire continuing education credits. In addition, you must adhere to the ISACA’s professional and ethical standards.
When is CISA exam offered?
After registering for the CISA exam, students have twelve months to take the exam. This means that you have 12 months from the date you register to take the CISA exam. Before a candidate can arrange and take an exam, the registration cost must be paid in full.
Where is CISA headquarters?
The location of CISA’s headquarters is 245 Murray Ln SW, Arlington, Virginia 20598, United States.
What jobs can you get with a CISA certification?
ISACA (Information Systems Audit and Control Association) offers the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification to professionals in the fields of information systems auditing, control, and security. ISACA reports that CISA-certified experts are in great demand worldwide as firms attempt to secure information systems and data against cyber threats.
Among the employment opportunities for CISA-certified professionals are:
- Information Systems Auditor
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Information Security Manager
- IT Risk Manager
- IT Governance Manager
- IT Compliance Manager
- IT Audit Manager
- IT Project Manager
What does a certified information systems auditor do?
The information systems, IT, or associated departments of a firm are supervised, managed, and protected by a CISA. This includes conducting audits of procedures and finished goods, implementing risk management strategies to prevent security lapses, and working with other departments to make sure their technical requirements are satisfied without jeopardizing security or introducing vulnerabilities into the system.
What is an information system auditor?
An information Systems Audit is a management, technical, and organizational process that ensures the proper exploitation of Information Technology and systems to strategically align with the organization’s overarching mission and objective.
Does CISA certification expire?
CISA CPE credits are valid for three years.
How long does it take to study for CISA?
It can take between three and four months to prepare for the ISACA CISA Exam, which is a short response to the question posed in the article’s title. Transferring the primary task is contingent upon your field experience.
How long is CISA exam?
The CISA examination consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and lasts four hours.
How is CISA exam scored?
Exams administered by ISACA are graded on a 200-800 point scale, with a passing score of 450.
How long does it take to get CISA exam results?
ISACA distributes the official exam results to the candidate within ten business days following the exam date.
How to get CISA certification in India?
How to earn CISA certification:
- PASS THE EXAM. Before submitting your application, you must satisfy the following prerequisites:
- COMPLETE THE APPLICATION. Candidates must apply for certification within five years of passing the exam.
- PAY & SUBMIT.
How to get CISA certification Philippines?
- Succeed on the CISA exam.
- Submit a CISA certification application.
- Adherence to the Professional Code of Ethics.
- Adherence to the program for Continuing Professional Education.
- Adherence to Information Systems Auditing Standards.
What is the purpose of CISA?
The Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification aims to set a standard for professionals in the fields of auditing, control, and security of information systems.