The CISA certification exists as one of the most valuable credentials available for IT professionals working with auditing and business system management and security needs. It’s one of the best credentials for anyone who wants to work in IT auditing, security, and business system management. CSA Certification adds value to your career, whether you’re already working in the field or just beginning; becoming CISA-certified can make you stand out, increase your pay, and create new career opportunities. But how do you become certified? What’s the cost of the CISA exam? Let’s find out!

What Is CISA Certification?

CISA certification, or CISA full form – Certified Information Systems Auditor, is a globally recognized certification that shows your ability to audit, manage, and secure an organization’s IT systems. If you are an IT professional tasked with making sure systems are efficient, secure, and meet regulatory requirements, the CISA certification is a significant and worthy stepping stone in your IT career. 

The CISA certification focuses on five key areas:

• Auditing IT: Including how to evaluate the effectiveness of an organization’s IT systems.
• Managing IT and Business: Ensure IT aligns with business objectives.
• Building and Installing Systems: Know how systems are planned, built, and implemented within the organization.
• Operations and Business Continuity: Make sure IT systems are stable and continue to run, even under difficult circumstances.
• Information Security: Ensuring information is secured from threats and risks.

If you are looking to transition or continue your IT career in auditing and/or security, CISA certification is a good option, and it offers substantial pay and increasing job opportunities. Although it involves passing a rigorous exam and having certain experience requirements, it’s entirely doable for IT professionals working in auditing, security, or control

How to Become a CISA Certified Professional

To become certified in CISA, there are a number of steps you have to take:

Work Experience:

• You must have a minimum of 4,000 hours of experience in information security or the equivalent role in IT.
• If you lack this, you can still qualify on the basis of having 1 year of experience in auditing, security, or control, and 1 year in information systems.

For Trainers:

To become a trainer, you must have experience as a security professional, controller, or IT auditor.

Steps to Get CISA Certification

• Apply for the CISA Exam: If you are looking for IT auditing and security, apply for the CISA exam by registering online and paying the registration fee.
• Pass the CISA Exam: Once you have passed the exam, apply for certification.
• Submit the Application: You must submit your application within 5 years of a successful CISA exam passage.
• Ongoing Learning: To keep your certification active, engage in Continuing Professional Education (CPE) activities that will keep you updated with IT security and auditing techniques.

What Is the CISA Exam Like?

• Number of Questions: 150
• Type of Questions: Multiple-choice questions
• Time Limit: 4 hours
• Grading: The CISA test is graded on a scale of 200 to 800 points, and you must score 450 or more to pass.

CISA Certification Fees and Costs

The CISA certification cost will depend on a number of factors, such as where you live and the training provider you choose. Here’s a summary of what you can expect:

• Exam Registration Fee: The fee for registration varies based on whether you are an ISACA member or not. Members generally get a discount on the CISA exam cost.
• Study Materials: You might need to buy textbooks, practice exams, or online courses to prepare for the CISA exam.
• Membership Fees: If you join ISACA as a member, you can get resources and discounts on exam fees and study materials.
• CPE Expenses: After becoming certified, you must continue with CPE activities such as taking courses, webinars, or conferences that can be in addition to these expenses.

How Much Does CISA Certification Cost?

The CISA certification fee varies by your location and training provider. For example:

• In India, CISA certification costs generally amount to between INR 30,000 to INR 40,000, which includes exam fees, study material, and membership.
• Internationally, the CISA exam fee can be anywhere from $500 to $800, depending on where you are and other circumstances, such as exchange rates.

If you want a cheaper alternative, CISA courses that are taken online can be a viable option. These online courses usually consist of video lectures, practice tests, and convenient schedules, so you won’t have to shell out extra for transportation.

Why Should You Get CISA Certification?

CISA is a very worthwhile certification to have if you’re in the business of IT security, audit, and control. It’s a way to prove that you have the know-how to look after sensitive information and make sure IT systems are safe and well-maintained.

Although the process of getting certified is demanding, it is worth it. CISA professionals are highly sought after and well paid. Therefore, although the process is demanding, the payoff is great.

CISA Certification Cost and Where to Get It

The CISA certification cost varies depending on where you live and the provider or institution that you use. Online CISA courses tend to be cheaper and more convenient because they allow you to learn at your own time and save money on transportation costs. But make sure you do your research on the best available options before you start because the charges are different. 

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to upgrade your career and gain valuable skills in IT auditing, the CISA certification is an excellent choice. It is recognized worldwide and can lead to better job opportunities and higher pay. While the certification process requires effort, passing the exam and meeting the experience requirements is achievable for many IT professionals.

So, if you’re ready to take the next step in your career, explore CISA courses, register for the exam, and start preparing to become a CISA-certified professional today!

FAQs