(CISA)

Certified Information Systems Auditor

About the Certification

This certification is offered by ISACA and is considered one of the strongest and most globally recognized credentials in Information Systems Auditing. It focuses on evaluating, auditing, and improving controls and compliance from an enterprise-level perspective, rather than deep technical implementation. The certification validates your ability to audit information systems and operational infrastructure using a recognized methodology, assess security, networks, infrastructure, and cloud environments, identify control gaps, and link IT operations with security, compliance, and audit outcomes. It also emphasizes understanding the role of logging and monitoring in risk reduction, leading the full IT audit lifecycle—from planning to reporting—while ensuring alignment with standards and regulations, and delivering clear, consistent audit recommendations that help organizations improve security, operations, and compliance.

Main Curriculum

The curriculum is divided into five main domains

  • Information Systems Auditing Process
    • Audit planning and execution
    • Audit standards, guidelines, and best practices
    • Risk-based audit approaches
    • Audit reporting and follow-up
  • Protection of Information Assets
    • Information security governance
    • Logical and physical access controls
    • Network, infrastructure, and cloud security controls
    • Data protection and privacy
  • Governance and Management of IT
    • IT governance frameworks
    • IT strategy and alignment with business objectives
    • IT policies, standards, and procedures
    • Organizational structures and responsibilities

Exam Details

  • Exam code: CISA-001
  • Duration: 240 minutes
  • Number of questions: 150
  • Question types: Multiple-choice + audit scenario–based questions
  • Language: English
  • Passing score: 450 out of 800
  • Information Systems Acquisition, Development, and Implementation
    • Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
    • Project management controls
    • System acquisition and implementation
    • Change management and release controls
  • Exam fee: USD 575–760 (varies by country and may include taxes)
  • Certification Maintenance The certification does not expire automatically Requires 20 CPE credits per year, totaling 120 CPE credits over 3 years Annual maintenance fee applies
  • Information Systems Operations and Business Resilience
    • IT operations management
    • Incident, problem, and service management
    • Business continuity and disaster recovery
    • Monitoring, logging, and operational controls

Do I need certifications before it ?

No, not at all.

 However, to be officially awarded the certification, candidates must have a minimum of five years of professional experience in IT Auditing or related fields. Part of this requirement may be waived through approved professional certifications or relevant academic education, in accordance with ISACA policies.

Which certifications are recommended after this one ?

Not mandatory. However, for professionals seeking a strong path in Information Systems Auditing and IT Governance especially in risk management, compliance, and control assurance the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) credential remains the strongest core foundation.

What are the main career uses of the CISA certification ?

  • CISM to transition from auditing into information security management and governance.
  • CRISC to specialize in IT risk management and business alignment.
  • GRC (Governance, Risk & Compliance) for deeper focus on regulatory compliance and enterprise controls.
  • IT Audit Leadership / Audit Manager roles.
  • Cybersecurity & Compliance (ISO 27001 / NIST) to link audit practices with security frameworks.
  • Risk & Assurance Consulting for advisory and enterprise risk roles.

Your Step Toward Professional IT Auditing :

This certification enables you to evaluate and audit information systems, technical architectures, and security controls using a structured, enterprise-grade methodology. It prepares you to identify security and operational gaps early, align risks with governance and compliance, and deliver high-quality audit reports with reduced noise and clearer regulatory impact. It is a foundational milestone for professionals seeking specialization in IT Auditing within large or regulated organizations, backed by an internationally recognized ISACA credential.

Who is this certification suitable for ?

  • Professionals working in IT, Cloud, Security, Infrastructure, or Audit.
  • Individuals responsible for or aspiring to Information Systems Auditing roles.
  • IT Audit Consultants and Assurance Professionals.
  • Security or compliance advisors in large enterprises.
  • GRC analysts seeking strong audit-focused foundations, including cloud and infrastructure auditing.

In short :

A globally recognized certification for professionals who want to lead and execute IT audits with confidence, structure, and enterprise credibility especially within large or sensitive organizations.

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