Ultimate Guide to the CISA Certification in 2023
By Alex • Updated Jan 13, 2023
Overview | Exam Guide | Courses
What is the CISA certification?
The Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification is an IT security certification offered by ISACA that validates your expertise to audit, control, monitor, and assess an organization’s information technology and business systems (source).
Which jobs can you get with a CISA certification?
According to Credly, there are 24,663 job openings related to the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification in the US alone. The 5 job titles with the most openings are:
- Senior Associate Information Technology Audit: 331 job postings
- Cyber Security Architect Project Manager: 322 job postings
- Federal Healthcare Cyber Security Officer: 320 job postings
- Systems Analyst: 214 job postings
- Senior Information Technology Auditor: 210 job postings
Which salary can you expect with a CISA certification?
In 2022, the average salary for a Certified Information Systems Auditor in the United States is $106,267 per year (source: ZipRecruiter).
The majority of salaries currently range between $87,500 (25th percentile) to $120,000 (75th percentile).
What are CISA requirements?
In order to become CISA Certified professionals need to fulfill the following requirements:
- Pass the CISA Exam within the last 5 years
- Have the relevant full-time work experience in the CISA exam content outline (details on possible substitutions and waivers can be found here)
- Submit the CISA Certification Application including the application processing fee
How much does the CISA certification cost?
ISACA members pay $575 for the exam registration, while non-members pay $760. This does not include potential costs for study materials such as online courses and practice exams.
How can you maintain your certification?
The CISA certification is valid for 3 years. To maintain your certification you need to fulfill the following requirements:
- Earn and report a minimum of 120 CPE hours every 3-year reporting cycle and at least 20 hours annually
- Pay the CISA annual maintenance fee ($45 for members, $85 for non-members)
FAQs
Who is the CISA certification for?
The CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor) certification is for professionals in the information systems audit, control, and security field.
Is the CISA certification worth it?
Yes. The CISA certification is highly respected and recognized in the industry, and can lead to career advancement opportunities and increased earning potential.
How can you get the CISA certification?
To obtain the CISA certification, individuals must pass the CISA exam and have a minimum of five years of professional experience in the IS audit, control, or security field.
What are the benefits of obtaining the CISA certification?
Some benefits of obtaining the CISA certification include increased job opportunities, higher earning potential, and recognition as a professional in the IS audit, control, and security field.
How difficult is it to obtain the CISA certification?
The CISA exam is considered challenging and requires significant study and preparation. However, with dedication and hard work, it is possible to pass the exam and earn the certification.
How long does it take to get the CISA certification?
The amount of time it takes to obtain the CISA certification can vary, as it depends on an individual's level of preparation and experience.
However, on average, it takes several months to prepare for the exam and pass it.
What are the best CISA certification alternatives?
Some alternatives to the CISA certification include the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and the Certified Information Systems Manager (CISM) certifications.
Both are widely recognized and respected in the industry.
Conclusion
In summary, the CISA certification is a highly respected and recognized IT security certification which validates expertise in auditing, controlling, monitoring, and assessing an organization’s information technology and business systems.
With 24,663 job openings related to the certification in the US alone and an average salary of $106,267 per year, obtaining the CISA certification can lead to significant career advancement opportunities and increased earning potential.